<< back to Article Index
<< back to home

Just the Facts About... Laser Pointers and Eye Safety

Laser pointers have become widely available and are much less expensive than even a year ago. Originally designed as educational and business tools, they are now marketed as toys. As a result, increasing numbers of incidents or irresponsible use are being reported.

What are laser pointers?  Laser pointers are small, hand-held devices originally intended to draw attention to overheads or slides during presentations or lectures. The pointer emits a light at a wavelength of 670 nm, producing a narrow intense beam of red laser light which can be directed over long distances.

What makes the laser potentially dangerous to the eye and vision is the concentration of the power in the beam. When directed into the eye, the beam forms an image at the retina that may be as bright as the sun.


What are the dangers associated with laser pointers?  Reports in the media about people being flashed in the eyes by laser pointers have mentioned temporary blindness as a result of the exposure. As with photo-flashes, a brief exposure to laser light results in bright afterimages that may interfere with vision, particularly in dim lighting or at night. The danger lies where the flash distracts an individual engaged in vision-critical activity such as driving, operating machinery, or playing sports. For example, a driver may lose control of his vehicle while trying to avoid being hit by the laser beam.

It is possible that retinal burns may occur with sustained exposure to the laser beam. Most of the incidents reported in the media involve brief "flash" exposures to the laser. Under these circumstances, there may be visual discomfort and after images that interfere with vision; however, there should be no permanent retinal injury.

We must emphasize that laser pointers are not toys. Staring into the beam or directing the beam into the eyes can result in injury after extended exposure. We note that some police forces have taken the position that deliberately directing a laser beam into a person's eyes is assault, and may warrant a criminal charge of assault with a weapon.

What should I do if I am flashed in the eyes with a laser pointer?  As soon as you are aware of the laser, look away from the beam or close your eyes and move out of its way. If you experience afterimages, visual discomfort, or a disturbance in reading for a duration of more than a few minutes, see your eyecare professional as soon as possible for assessment.



Dr. Steve Briggs - Dr. Liane Pitre
1701 3rd Ave. East, Owen Sound, Ont. N4K 2M3 (519)376-3937

Other Articles

Why Have Regular Eye Exams
Just the Facts About Glaucoma