Harris DA-DHR6804+D - Precautions for Enclosed Systems; Precautions for Unenclosed Systems

Appendix A
Laser Safety Guidelines
56
Copyright © 2010, Harris Corporation
If a beam of laser light enters the eye, the eye magnifies and focuses the energy on
the retina. The energy that reaches the retina can be as much as 100,000 times
more than at the cornea and, as a result, it can burn the retina.
Laser transmission products are classified in four major groups (Class 1, 2, 3, and
4), according to their emissions and potential for causing injury. Fiber optic
transmitter modules in this series are designated Class 1.
Precautions for
Enclosed Systems
Under normal operating conditions, optical fiber telecommunication systems are
completely enclosed; nonetheless, observe the following precautions:
 Because of the potential for eye damage, technicians should not stare into
optical connectors or broken fibers.
 Under no circumstance shall laser/fiber optic operations be performed by a
technician before satisfactorily completing an approved training course.
 Since viewing laser emissions directly in excess of Class I/1 limits with an
optical instrument such as an eye loupe greatly increases the risk of eye
damage, appropriate labels must appear in plain view, in close proximity to the
optical port on the protective housing/access panel of the terminal
equipment.
WARNING: Eye damage may occur if an optical instrument such as a
microscope, magnifying glass, or eye loupe is used to stare at the
energized fiber end.
Precautions for
Unenclosed
Systems
During service, maintenance, or restoration, an optical fiber telecommunication
system is considered unenclosed. Under these conditions, follow these practices:
CAUTION: Only authorized, trained personnel shall be permitted to
do service, maintenance, and restoration.
 Avoid exposing the eye to emissions from unterminated, energized optical
connectors at close distances.
Laser modules associated with the optical ports of laser circuit packs are
typically recessed, which limits the exposure distance. Optical port shutters,
Automatic Power Reduction (APR), and Automatic Power Shut Down (APSD)
are engineering controls that are also used to limit the emissions. However,
technicians removing or replacing laser modules should not stare or look
directly into the optical port with optical instruments or magnifying lenses.
(Normal eyewear or indirect viewing instruments such as Find-R-Scopes are not
considered magnifying lenses or optical instruments).
 Ensure that only authorized, trained personnel use optical test equipment
during installation or servicing.
 Turn off all laser sources before scanning a fiber with an optical test set.
 Keep all unauthorized personnel away from the immediate area of the optical
fiber systems during installation and service.