Properly Certified Laser Cutter Examples

While lasers have been used in research at Georgia Tech for many years, there has been a recent dramatic increase in the availability of and need for laser-based devices for material cutting, engraving, and even 3D printing.  These devices typically use a high-power Class 4 or medium-power Class 3B laser, but are designed according to federal regulations so that they may be operated as a safe, Class 1 device.  These Class 1 devices have reduced safety requirements compared to Class 4 or 3B devices per the Georgia Tech Laser Safety Program.

Numerous vendors sell low-cost versions of these devices via eBay, their own website, and similar.  The vast majority of these low-cost versions skirt the federal certification and reporting regulations.  The result are products that, while costing significantly less, are more hazardous Class 4 and 3B devices for operation and, therefore, must adhere to the full requirements of the Georgia Tech Laser Safety Program.

Please consult with the Georgia Tech Laser Safety Officer prior to purchasing any laser product, regardless of the vendor, so that you know in advance what your initial and ongoing safety obligations will be.   

The Georgia Tech Laser Safety Officer can be contacted at laser@ehs.gatech.edu or 404-894-8847.  All program documents for the Georgia Tech Laser Safety Program are available at https://www.ehs.gatech.edu/radiation/laser.