How it works
Laser safety classes describe how much harm a beam can do. Class 4 is the top class. A direct beam or a mirror-like reflection can injure the eye instantly, and at higher power even scattered light can be a risk. Strong beams can also burn skin and set light materials on fire.
Almost every professional show laser is Class 4, because the power is needed to make beams visible across a large space. The risk is managed through how the show is designed and run, not by using weaker lasers.
Good to know
- Beams are kept above the audience or blocked from reaching them, unless the show has been calculated and measured as safe for audience scanning.
- An emergency stop is within reach of a trained operator for the whole show.
- Projectors are mounted securely so beams cannot drift if a stand is knocked.
- Reflective surfaces, aircraft and local laser rules are checked during planning.
