How dangerous is the BEAM of blue laser?

Hi there, first-time poster to the forum here. I just entered the world of high-powered lasers after wanting one for quite some time. I purchased a 1.6w 462nm laser from Jetlasers.org, and it's awesome! The blue color is fantastic, and the burning capabilities surpassed my expectations.

I have a question regarding safety, and I can't seem to find a definitive answer anywhere. I understand that looking directly into the laser (duh) or at the reflected dot can cause instant and permanent eye damage. I have purchased safety glasses with the laser to prevent this.

My question is specifically about using the laser outdoors-- if I am not shining it at any surface (e.g. straight up in the sky), can looking at the visible laser beam cause eye damage? I have used it a couple of times outside on a clear night without the glasses and didn't notice anything, but reading all of the safety warnings regarding class IV lasers (specifically the blue color) still has me a bit paranoid. Any advice would be appreciated.

Dan22 said:

My question is specifically about using the laser outdoors-- if I am not shining it at any surface (e.g. straight up in the sky), can looking at the visible laser beam cause eye damage? I have used it a couple of times outside on a clear night without the glasses and didn't notice anything, but reading all of the safety warnings regarding class IV lasers (specifically the blue color) still has me a bit paranoid. Any advice would be appreciated.

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Looking at the beam outside (from behind the aperture) wont cause eye damage. The danger with these lasers are when the beam hits you in the eye, either directly or being reflected from a surface. Edit: I should clarify that by reflections I also mean diffuse reflections, even those can be dangerous at these powers.

Just make sure you've got a good grip on the laser and that there are no planes.

ARG said:

Looking at the beam outside (from behind the aperture) wont cause eye damage. The danger with these lasers are when the beam hits you in the eye, either directly or being reflected from a surface. Edit: I should clarify that by reflections I also mean diffuse reflections, even those can be dangerous at these powers.

Just make sure you've got a good grip on the laser and that there are no planes.

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Thanks for the reply. That's what I expected. I did use it very briefly one night when it was foggy/misting and noticed the beam was extremely bright (much more so than normal). Is that what you mean when you refer to the diffuse reflection hazard?

Dan22 said:

Thanks for the reply. That's what I expected. I did use it very briefly one night when it was foggy/misting and noticed the beam was extremely bright (much more so than normal). Is that what you mean when you refer to the diffuse reflection hazard?

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The diffuse reflection would be off a surface. Such as shining at your wall or carpet and looking at the dot.

Hi ,
Blue, green,red, violet basically lasers should be handled carefully all the time. Your ? Is answered already by there guys . Use your common sense and practice safety and you will be just fine. So you purchased a nice wavelength good choice. Start building your own and you will appreciate lasers more and more. Once you build the bug will definitely get under your skin it's addicting but it's the coolest feeling saying hey I built this awesome laser. The choices are never ending. Have fun be safe always this forum is like one stop shopping for info and parts oh and lots of great people to help out.))