Eye Protection Is Imperative Around YAG Lasers

Eye protection is imperative for surgeons, dentists and other medical professionals who are present when lasers are used to treat patients. Permanent eye damage to the cornea or retina can occur if one’s eyes are exposed and subjected to the powerful radiation of a laser. YAG laser glasses and YAG laser goggles provide superior protection for those working in an environment where a YAG laser is in use.

Lasers work by focusing light in a narrow beam. A beam is emitted in short bursts and focuses precisely on the target. A laser’s energy can be absorbed, scattered, transmitted or reflected. Lasers used in medical procedures transmit most of their energy to the intended target, however it is possible that some of that power can be reflected toward the eyes. In a medical setting, it is important to wear protective safety glasses due to this possibility. YAG laser glasses and YAG laser goggles are fully compliant with ANSI Z136.3 standards when working with Class 3B and Class 4 lasers in a medical setting.

Protective glasses must be matched in terms of wavelength frequency with the type of laser being used. Medical professionals, who work with Class 3B and Class 4 lasers, are protected by using 1064 nm (nanometer) laser glasses and goggles. Instead of using heavier and more expensive glass, the lenses of YAG laser glasses are made of a lighter and less expensive polycarbonate material. These lenses permit 58.7% of the available light to pass through and filter out the harmful wavelength light produced by the laser.

YAG laser glasses and goggles are available in a number of different styles to suit individual preferences. All styles provide the same protection and their lightweight lenses make them very comfortable when using them for long procedures. YAG laser goggles and YAG fit over frames can be worn over regular eyeglasses to accommodate those with existing eyewear.

Whenever YAG lasers are in operation it is absolutely necessary that safety glasses (glasses that meet American National Standards Institute requirements) are worn. Protective eyewear must match the wavelength frequency of the laser being used to properly filter out the harmful radiation. Lasers used in medical procedures are inherently dangerous, particularly to the unprotected eye. Very few incidents of eye injuries are reported when properly fitted YAG laser glasses or YAG laser goggles are worn. Protect your eyesight and never take chances when working around lasers.

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