Laser hazards Protection against the laser beam

Collective and individual protection against laser risk is based on a risk analysis, which is a regulatory requirement (Decree no. 2001-1016 of November 5, 2001). Collective protection is to be preferred. All work phases are concerned: maintenance, adjustment, operation, etc. Safety goggles and/or safety glasses, in accordance with European standards NF EN 207 and NF EN 208, are the last line of defence against accidental exposure to laser beams. However, eyewear is not absolute protection. It is essential to set up collective protection systems beforehand. A laser accident has direct financial costs: a few thousand euros for an accident without lost time, up to around 80,000 euros for an accident with partial disability of 10%. If indirect costs are taken into account, these sums can be multiplied by a factor varying from 3 to 5. We must also take into account the psychological damage and the consequences on the private and professional lives of the victims. It is therefore imperative to do everything possible to avoid accidents.