subject: Can Laser Pointer Really Make You Blind? [print this page] Can Laser Pointer Really Make You Blind? Can Laser Pointer Really Make You Blind?
Now days there are many websites and stores selling laser pointers and they often use the words "shining" and "burn". Is the little thing strong enough to make you blind?Well from the "Starwar" we can see the laser sure can hurt us badly. But as the survey from Princeton University shows that the hazards of laser pointers which sold in normal stores are limited to the eye. Although with most visible lasers, the largest concern is potential damage to the retina, most laser pointers are not likely to cause permanent retinal damage.
The most likely effects from exposure to viewing the beam from a laser pointer are afterimage, flashblindness and glare. Flashblindness is temporary vision impairment after viewing a bright light. This is similar to looking directly at a flashbulb when having a picture taken. The impairment may last several minutes.
Afterimage is the perception of spots in the field of vision. This can be distracting and annoying, and may last several minutes, although there have been reports of afterimages lasting several days.
Glare is a reduction or complete loss of visibility in the central field of vision while being exposed to the direct or scattered beam. This is similar to viewing oncoming headlights on a dark night. Once the beam is out of the field of vision, the glare ceases. While this does not pose a hazard to the eye, it can cause serious distraction and outrage. Glare can be exacerbated when the beam is reflected from a mirror-like surface.
Laser Pointer Accidents and Incidents
As laser pointers become more ubiquitous, more and more laser pointer related incidents have been reported worldwide. Most of the reports do not concern eye exposure, but outrage. For example, police officers have reportedly drawn their weapons when the light from laser pointers is mistaken for a gun sight. Laser beams projected into airspace and intercept aircraft have caused distractions and temporary vision impairment to pilots.
Several individuals have reported temporary blindness when targeted by a number of laser pointers. This is becoming more prevalent at sporting events. A few individuals complained of afterimages lasting several days.
A high school cheerleader reported being exposed at least three times. After the last episode, she reported first seeing "green", then experiencing partial vision loss, which lasted for several months. An ophthalmic exam found no retinal damage.
Use Laser Pointers in A Proper Way
Laser pointers are not toys, despite what many people think about them, lead to legal trouble as well. Now, don't go throwing your pointers in the trash just yet. All you need to do is keep a few laser usage rules in mind and you are in the clear.
Laser pointers are effective tools when used properly. The following considerations should be observed when using laser pointers:
1. Never look directly into the laser beam.
2. Never point a laser beam at a person. Do not aim the laser at reflective surfaces.
3. Never view a laser pointer using an optical instrument, such as binocular or a microscope.
4. Do not allow children to use laser pointers unless under the supervision of an adult.
5. Operates at a wavelength between 630 nm and 680 nm.
Here is a link http://www.dinodirect.com/laser-pointers/ which may lead you to some examples about laser beams at different wavelength and output. If your job or profession needs these kinds of staff, you may check it out on the website. As for your own good please keep in mind those above tips before you make your mind for one purchase of a laser. Hope this article can help you choose the right laser pointer for your inquiry.
