Abstract

The Commission on Radiological Protection notes with great concern the increase in dangerous dazzle attacks with powerful laser pointers. Among those affected are pilots, motorists, football players, referees and spectators at football matches.

The consequences of the misuse of lasers have been known for decades. Depending on their output power, wavelength, beam cross-section and type of system (continuous/pulsed output) misuse may cause dazzling effects, irreversible retinal damage and even permanent blindness and burns. Provisions have been adopted to regulate the purchase and safe use of lasers. However, these provisions do not adequately address the current situation.

The Commission on Radiological Protection strongly recommends regulating by law the possession and purchase of laser pointers of the classes 3B and 4 (according to DIN EN-60825-1 2008) in order to avoid misuse.

Due to their hazard potential, for instance, Class 3B and 4 laser pointers could be categorised as weapons.