Laser pointers, Events involving Laser Radiation, Lasertag
The use of lasers is becoming increasingly common, from handheld laser pointers and light shows to games like laser tag. However, improper or unregulated use of laser radiation can pose serious health risks, particularly to the eyes and skin. This page provides information on the dangers associated with lasers, the protective measures required under Swiss law, and guidance on how to stay safe during events, public gatherings, and recreational activities involving lasers.
Laser pointers
Laser pointers are hand-held devices that emit laser radiation. In recent years, dangerous laser pointers have come into circulation that can cause serious eye and skin damage. Furthermore, the beams from laser pointers may dazzle the eyes. To prevent these dangers in the future, the Federal Council has banned dangerous laser pointers in Switzerland. The ban will come into force on 1 June 2019. Further information on the disposal of dangerous laser pointers can be found on the flyer Ban on laser pointers. You can find detailed information about laser pointers on the fact sheet Laserpointer.
More information about laser pointer.
Events involving laser radiation
Some events involving laser radiation use very powerful lasers with output powers of several watts. When a laser beam of such strength - even for a very short duration - hits the eye, temporary visual impairment, after-images, reading impairment and in severe cases permanent damage to the eye may be caused. In order to minimise these risks and to protect the public of such hazardous radiation, the Ordinance to the Federal Act on Protection Against Hazards Arising from Non-Ionising Radiation and Sound (O-NIRSA) stipulates appropriate measures such as a notification obligation for events and competence.
Guidance for events involving laser radiation
Laser tag
Together with the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS), the FOPH has measured the laser radiation emitted by a laser tag system. The measurements show that laser tag complies with the limits for laser radiation and, based on current knowledge and when used properly, does not pose a risk to the eyes.
Material processing with lasers
Working with lasers requires attention and awareness of the risks. Learn best practices to ensure the safety of operators and the work environment.
Further information
Index
Laser pointers
In recent years, more and more dangerous laser pointers have come into circulation, which can lead to eye and skin damage. Lasers that are not approved in Europe and Switzerland are offered particularly via the Internet.
Events involving laser radiation
Some events involving laser radiation use very powerful lasers with output powers of several watts. When a laser beam of such strength - even for a very short duration - hits the eye, temporary visual impairment, after-images, reading impairment and in severe cases permanent damage to the eye may be caused.
Federal Office of Public Health FOPH
Non-ionising Radiation and Dosimetry Section
Schwarzenburgstrasse 157
Switzerland - 3003 Bern