Specifications

Safety
9
access to radiation accessible during service only. Service only
panels of the protective housing need not be interlocked, but should
be removable only with the use of a tool.
Operation means functions by which the product accomplishes its
intended purpose; may include loading/unloading parts, documents,
setting/manipulating external controls. Maintenance means func-
tions performed by the user to assure performance (preventative
maintenance). Service means, usually, repair. It may be performed
by trained service personnel or by sophisticated users following
instructions specifically indicated as service instructions. The manu-
facturer stipulates which functions are service and which are main-
tenance.
Snap action spring switches are subject to short circuit and are
not approved as fail-safe safety switches. Switches in series with
solenoid-actuated doors could, under certain circumstances, be
used, if the door remained latched-up on failure. Shorting bars
and plugs are generally acceptable, under certain terms of
correct usage.
A Remote Interlock Connector is required on all Class III and IV
laser products. The purpose is to allow a user to connect a remote
barrier interlock (or daisy chain) or emergency stop switch or similar
device. It must be in the interlock circuit such that when the termi-
nals are open, human access to laser radiation is prevented. Elec-
trical potential must not be greater than 130 V rms. A shorted mating
connector may be provided by the manufacturer to allow the product
to be operated when the remote interlock is not being used.
Key control is required for Class IIIb and IV laser products in order
that the user may prevent unauthorized operation (The key must not
be removable with switch in “ON” position).
An Emission Indicator(s) is required on Class II, IIIa IIIb and IV
laser systems. The indicator may be audible or visible. On Class IIIb
and IV laser systems the indicator must precede emission of radia-
tion by a sufficient amount of time for users and observers to recog-
nize that the product has been energized (so they can avoid acci-
dental exposure). Usually 2-7 seconds before lasing is adequate.
Emission indicators must be duplicated on control panels and laser
heads if they are capable of being separated by 2 meters or more.
A Beam Attenuator is required on all lasers above Class I. The beam
attenuator is a mechanical or electrical device such as a shutter that
blocks laser emission. The beam attenuator blocks bodily access to
radiation above the limits of Class I, without the need to turn the