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Injury Statistics

It is difficult to find definitive statistics regarding the number of laser injuries that occur each year because of the wide range of uses for lasers and the different industries using them. There are various databases where laser incidents are reported, including the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) database of laser equipment malfunctions. The Department of Energy Office of Health, Safety and Security (HSS) also maintains an extensive accident-reporting database that is searchable for laser injury reports. Another database is maintained by Rockwell Laser Industries, which claims to pull data from as far back as 1964. However, reporting is not mandatory and there is a general consensus that laser injuries are underreported.

A review of reported incidents shows the top 14 reported causes of laser-related injuries, which are the following:

  • Unanticipated eye exposure during alignment
  • Misaligned optics and upwardly directed beams
  • Available laser eye protection was not used
  • Equipment malfunction
  • Improper method of handling high voltage
  • Intentional exposure of unprotected persons
  • Operators unfamiliar with laser equipment
  • No protection provided for associated hazards
  • Improper restoration of equipment following servicing
  • Incorrect eyewear selection or eyewear failure
  • Accidental eye or skin exposure during normal use
  • Inhalation of laser-generated fumes or viewing of secondary radiation (UV, blue light)
  • Laser ignition of fires
  • Photochemical eye or skin exposure

Keep in mind that lasers with higher class ratings are more powerful and carry a greater potential for serious injury if used improperly.

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