Which category of laser requires no protective measures?

Class 1 lasers are considered safe under all conditions of normal use and do not require any protective measures for the eye or skin. These lasers emit low levels of radiation that are incapable of causing harm. Typically, they are enclosed in a protective housing that prevents exposure to the laser light during intended use. Examples include devices like laser printers and CD players, which operate at power levels low enough to not pose a threat to users.

Understanding this category is crucial for maintaining safety in environments that utilize lasers. In contrast, higher classes such as Class 2, Class 3a, and Class 4 lasers do pose varying degrees of risk and require specific safety measures or precautions to protect users from potential harm due to direct exposure to the beam. It is essential for users and operators to be aware of the classifications and the associated safety requirements to mitigate risks effectively.