Post: Visible Light Laser Safety Glasses

Visible Light Laser Safety Glasses

If you are trying to protect yourself from visible light lasers, visible light laser safety glasses are what you need. Laser safety glasses that protect from invisible or UV light tend to be much lighter in color and offer a more extensive range of protection. Still, they usually do not block wavelengths in the visible spectrum (roughly between 400 and 700nm wavelengths of light). On the other hand, visible light laser safety glasses protect from lasers that operate in the visible spectrum. Because of this, they tend to have a darker lens color to protect you against these lasers. 

THE CORE FEATURES OF VISIBLE LIGHT SPECTRUM LASER SAFETY GLASSES

  • Visible light laser safety glasses protect from laser beams within the visible spectrum, roughly between 400nm and 700nm wavelengths of light.

  • Visible light laser safety glasses are never clear because if they were, they wouldn’t be protected from visible beams!

  • Laser safety glasses for visible light are the opposite color of the beam they protect against. This is directly from the principles of what a “color” really is: if it reflects or transmits a specific color, it will appear to be that color. If it absorbs a color, that color will NOT appear through or reflected from the material.

  • Laser safety glasses that protect from blue light are generally red.

  • Laser safety glasses that protect from red light will generally be blue or green.

  • Laser safety glasses that protect from colors in the middle of the visible spectrum, such as yellow beams, will generally be dark purple or brown.

  • Visible light transmission (VLT) is correlated roughly with how much protection you have in the visible spectrum. The more wavelengths you protect from, the higher the optical density (OD) and the darker the lenses will be.

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IDENTIFY THE
LASER'S WAVELENGTH

To choose the right safety glasses, you must know your working laser’s specific wavelength(s).

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CHOOSE THE
APPROPRIATE OD

Ensure the glasses have a high enough OD for the laser’s power output. This should be printed on the side of the laser machine or in the Laser Operating Manual.

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COMFORT AND FIT

Since you might be wearing these glasses for extended periods, choose a comfortable, well-fitting pair that doesn’t interfere with your vision or work.

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LENS COLOR

The color of the lens can affect color perception and visibility. Ensure the lens color is suitable for your work environment and tasks.

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CERTIFICATION
AND STANDARDS

Look for glasses that meet international safety standards, such as ANSI Z136 in the United States or EN207/EN208 in Europe, ensuring adequate protection against laser exposure.

Laser safety glasses for visible light lasers are necessary for personal protective equipment for individuals working with or in the same room as these lasers. By understanding and adhering to the specifications and safety standards, you can protect your eyes from potential harm while ensuring you can perform your work effectively and safely. If you have any questions about laser safety glasses or goggles or visible light laser safety glasses, please get in touch with our team of laser safety specialists.

If you still aren’t sure which laser safety glasses are right for you, it’s a good idea to give us a call at 1-866-575-1307 or talk to us through our chat or e-mail us at service@phillips-safety.com

Our experts will be able to tell you what you need for your application.

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