As reported by the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS), stricter rules for laser pointers have been in force in the EU since September in accordance with the new EN 50689 standard. Only laser pointers of laser classes 1 and 2 with a maximum power of 1 milliwatt (1mW) are permitted. Laser classes 1M and 2M are no longer applicable for laser pointers. The aim is to increase product safety and minimise risks such as eye injuries and hazards in road and air traffic. Key points:
Restrictions: Laser pointers may only belong to laser classes 1 and 2, with a maximum power of 1mW.
Market surveillance: The new standard facilitates the verification of conformity and prevents the sale of unauthorised or incorrectly classified products.
Recommendations:
- Ensure that laser pointers are correctly labelled and comply with the new specifications.
- Avoid selling products that have been categorised as dangerous in Safety Gate or national warning lists.
- Pay attention to clear performance information and warnings on the products.
Sellers and producers should urgently implement the new requirements in order to avoid legal risks.
Do you sell laser pointers and are you affected? The trade-e-bility advisory team will be happy to answer your questions on +49/40/750687-300 or beratung@trade-e-bility.de.
