Laser safety and CE certification of laser machines
BRM laser machines are classified as Class 1 lasers and are CE-certified. Find out here what that means for your safety and that of your team.
Laser safety starts with the machine
BRM laser machines use high laser power for cutting and engraving. That is why safety is not an option for us, but a fundamental principle. Every enclosed BRM machine is designed as a Class 1 laser device and complies with the European Machinery Directive.
Only laser class 1 is intrinsically safe
A Class 1 laser is safe under normal use, without the need for additional measures such as laser safety goggles. This is particularly important for schools and educational institutions, where untrained users may also operate the machine. All enclosed BRM machines are certified as Class 1 lasers, partly thanks to high-quality European safety components.
What are the different laser classes?
| Laser safety class | What does it mean? |
|---|---|
| Class 1 | Safe when used as intended, in all situations, without the need for additional protection |
| Class 2M | Visible laser. Safe in the event of occasional exposure (< 0.25 sec) |
| Class 3R | Focused beams are dangerous; reflections have been documented as safe |
| Class 3B | Dangerous. Risks have been identified and safe scenarios have been documented |
| Year 4 | Dangerous. When using these systems, safety precautions must always be observed (laser safety goggles, qualified personnel only in the room, the room must be locked and monitored to prevent access by unqualified personnel). |
Note: Always check the yellow laser safety label on a machine. It states the class in accordance with IEC 60825-1.
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Laser safety for BRM CO₂ machines
Enclosed machines: Class 1
BRM CO₂ laser machines from the Slim and Pro series are enclosed machines in laser class 1, the highest safety level. They are fitted with certified interlock safety switches that cannot be bypassed. This ensures that the laser is switched off not only via software but also via hardware.
Ultra series: Class 4
The specifications for the Ultra series state laser class 4. You should therefore always discuss with BRM how to work safely with these machines. Do you have any questions about working safely with the Ultra? Please contact us; we’d be happy to help.
Interlock: door or flap open? All lasers switch off immediately
As soon as a user opens the door or a panel – for example, for cleaning – all lasers switch off immediately. This includes both the high-power laser and the red pointer. Approved interlocks are mandatory for any supplier wishing to comply with the CE Machinery Directive. A simple switch is not safe and can easily be bypassed.
About open machines
Our open CO₂ machines are always Class 4. This means that everyone in the room must wear protective equipment, such as laser safety goggles, and the machine must be housed in an enclosed space. We do not recommend this for situations such as educational settings and workplaces with varying users. Are you unsure about your situation? Please contact BRM; we’d be happy to advise you.
Machinery Directives and CE certification
BRM machines are CE-certified. This means that they comply with the requirements and standards applicable in Europe, including the Machinery Directive and laser safety requirements. This ensures you are fully protected, even in unforeseen situations. Why we consider this important: lasers operate at high power levels and use invisible light. Eye damage is permanent. To ensure our safety standards are met, we not only inspect every machine internally but also have our inspections and, on a random basis, our models externally certified.
Directives:
- Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
- Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU
- EMC Directive 2014/30/EU
Harmonised standards:
- NEN-EN-IEC 60825-1:2014 (+A11:2021): safety of laser products, classification and requirements
- NEN-EN-IEC 60825-4: laser protection
- NEN-EN-ISO 11553-1:2020: Safety of machinery using lasers
- NEN-EN-IEC 60204-1:2018: electrical equipment of machines
- NEN-EN-ISO 12100:2010: Safety of machinery – Risk assessment and risk reduction
Air extraction and fumes
Cutting or engraving materials can release harmful fumes and gases. Effective extraction is therefore not a luxury. BRM deliveries include an extraction system with a delayed shut-off as standard, and we’d be happy to advise you on the best solution for your situation. No fume is safe to breathe in.
BRM’s extractors are designed to do exactly this: extract and filter the vapours and gases released directly at the source, before they reach your workplace. Filtration takes place in several stages. A pre-filter captures the coarser dust particles, a carbon filter absorbs the gases and odours, and a HEPA filter then removes the finest particles from the air. The result is air that you can circulate freely in your workspace without any concerns. The delay function also ensures that the extraction continues for a short while after cutting or engraving, so that even the last traces of vapour leave the machine before you open the flap. You’ll notice the difference straight away, particularly when working with acrylic, wood and leather: less odour, a cleaner machine and a more pleasant working environment for you and your colleagues. Which extractor is best suited depends on the machine you use, the materials you work with and your production volume. That’s why we always assess your situation together with you, so you can be sure you’re getting a solution that will last. And if you’re unsure about a material, have it checked first: some plastics, such as PVC, should never be used in a laser machine because they release harmful fumes that can damage both you and the machine.
Are you unsure about whether your situation is safe?
We’d be happy to help you find a solution. Please call us on +31 544 350 320 or email us at support@brmlasers.com
Ashwin
Laser machine specialist
