Conclusion

This article introduces the fundamental safety and prevention concepts needed to understand the risks associated with using laser beams, such as power density, energy density, divergence, point source concepts...

Rules are essential to prevent, eliminate or minimize risks when working with laser sources. The classification of laser sources based on standards is explained. Major regulatory texts are analyzed. Maximum permissible exposures (MPEs) for eyes and skin, which are the limits that must not be exceeded if experimenters are to maintain their physical integrity. This publication is supplemented by a second article [SL 6 151]...