Laser Laws (Washington State/U.S.)
<p>I'm interested in purchasing a laser source for some product development as a side project, however I understand lasers are a touchy subject.</p>

<p>So, what are some proper avenues to pursue when attempting to purchase a laser either domestically or from a foreign supplier?</p>

<p>Alternatively, can any directly provide information on what regulations and procedures are in place when trying to purchase a laser source in the U.S.?</p>

<p>I live in Washington state and I'm potentially looking at about a 10W laser (20W max!) for the project.</p>

<p>All laser products entering commerce in the U.S. are regulated by the FDA.  Current regulations are given in <a href="http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/cfrsearch.cfm?FR=1040.10" rel="nofollow noreferrer">21 CFR 1040</a>.</p>

<p>To save you some time: With power over 5mW you're generally talking about Class IV lasers.  It appears that regulations require such lasers to have a number of safety features, including:</p>

<ul>
<li>Master key</li>
<li>Safety interlocks</li>
<li>Remote shutoff</li>
<li>Emission indicator</li>
<li>Aperture shutter</li>
</ul>

<p>(There are some "shady" operations that sell electronic <em>kits</em> that can be readily assembled to emit as much as 3W, and which do not comply with FDA regulations.  However I have never seen a more powerful laser product for sale that was not compliant.  And the FDA is not known for its sense of humor; enforcement is strict, so I wouldn't be very concerned about a seller lying about compliance of its products.)</p>

commerce washington