Safety Eye Protection For Field Use Of Lasers

Abstract

Based on computer calculations of the irradiance on the eye when laser range finders at wavelengths of 694 nm or 1064 nm are used, safety distances are derived for the worst case of directly looking into the laser source with the unaided eye, as well as with magnifying viewing instruments (binoculars, periscopes). From this, attenuation factors (optical densities) of protective filters for both applications are determined. Various means of attaining the necessary protection are discussed, and it is concluded that dielectric interference filters, sometimes in combination with spectrally absorbing glass substrates, are still the most reliable and economic solution, at least for eye protection through optical instruments. The mass production and widespread use of versatile and efficient goggles for individual personnel protection remains still a problem, particularly when corrective spectacles are included. AbstractBased on computer calculations of the irradiance on the eye when laser range finders at wavelengths of 694 nm or 1064 nm are used, safety distances are derived for the worst case of directly looking into the laser source with the unaided eye, as well as with magnifying viewing instruments (binoculars, periscopes). From this, attenuation factors (optical densities) of protective filters for both applications are determined. Various means of attaining the necessary protection are discussed, and it is concluded that dielectric interference filters, sometimes in combination with spectrally absorbing glass substrates, are still the most reliable and economic solution, at least for eye protection through optical instruments. The mass production and widespread use of versatile and efficient goggles for individual personnel protection remains still a problem, particularly when corrective spectacles are included.