Answer to Question #1718 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

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Question 2: If a laser pointer readily available to the public is frequently used, will there be harmful affects? Lasers are divided into four classes, 1 to 4, Class 4 being the most dangerous. Laser pointers are generally Class 2 or 3a. These products are generally safe when used as intended, to point at a screen, for instance. But if they are pointed at someone's eye, or if somebody stares into them intentionally, eye damage can occur. The frequency of use does not make a difference, it is inappropriate use that can be problematic. A couple of years ago, key chains were being sold with laser pointers in them. They had a warning sign on them, but children were playing with these. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings to the general public about laser pointers. See "FDA Issues Warning about Laser Pointers" on the Health and Human Services Web site. Ninni Jacob, CHP Radiation and Biological Safety Officer Environmental Health and Safety Office Brown University