New Edition of IEC 60825-1 affects Laser Product Manufacturers
Update your laser equipment certifications now for continued market access
The second edition of the IEC safety standard for laser products, designated IEC 60825-1:2007, Edition 2 - Safety of laser products - Part 1: Equipment classification and requirements, has recently been published. This document defines the classification, labelling and safety compliance requirements of laser equipment.
The new edition introduces important changes to manufacturing requirements and measurement conditions which will affect laser equipment manufacturers. LEDs were also removed from the scope of IEC 60825-1 (LED radiation hazards are now intended to be covered by IEC 62471 - Photobiological safety of lamps and lamp systems).
Any international Marks issued on or after September 1, 2010 will require the supporting CB Test Report and Certificate to be based on the new second edition of IEC 60825-1. Suppliers of laser products should contact UL as soon as possible to receive assistance in identifying required changes and recertifying their products as compliant where necessary in order to maintain their access to international markets.
Global Market Access Services
For end products that comply with full testing and evaluation such as IEC 60950 or UL 60950-1 certification (see also Important Changes to UL 60950-1 Certification effective December 2010), UL can offer a comprehensive range of international product test certificates to meet the needs of those selling to different countries, including:
With these marks, you are indicating to purchasers, retailers and end users that your products conform to applicable safety standards , and are backed up by UL's century-long reputation for independence, integrity and expertise. For added convenience, multiple marks may be combined in a single test package under UL's Global Market Access program to keep costs down and speed up time to market.
Frequently Asked Questions about IEC 60825-1 Recertification
- What products does IEC 60825-1 apply to?
> IEC 60825-1 is the primary standard for laser safety, to which many other standards and guidelines refer. It concerns the classification, labeling and safety compliance of laser products emitting laser radiation in the wavelength range 180 nm to 1 mm. A laser product may consist of a single laser with or without a separate power supply, or may incorporate one or more lasers in a complex optical, electrical, or mechanical system.
> Where a laser system forms a part of equipment which is subject to another IEC product safety standard (e.g. for medical equipment (IEC 60601-2-22), IT equipment (IEC 60950), audio and video equipment (IEC 60065), equipment for use in hazardous atmospheres (IEC 60079), or electric toys (IEC 62115)), IEC 60825-1 will apply for hazards resulting from laser radiation. - When does the new edition become effective?
> The new second edition of IEC 60825-1 cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1993, its Amendment 1 (1997) and its Amendment 2 (2001), and has already been widely adopted by standards organizations. From 1 September 2010, all international Marks issued by UL will require the supporting CB Test Report and Certificate to be based on the new second edition of IEC 60825-1. - My product is already 60825-1 certified; why do I need to bother with the 2nd Edition?
> The new edition introduces important changes to manufacturing requirements and measurement conditions, as well as new labeling requirements. Failure to comply with these changes may limit market access for your products. - What other changes are made in the new version?
> The presentation of the standard has been extensively reorganized and enhanced to make it easier to use and understand. In addition, LEDs have been removed from the scope of IEC 60825-1, and the User Guide section which appeared in previous editions of the standard has also been removed. - Where can I find LED radiation standards now?
> LED radiation requirements are covered by IEC 62471 - Photobiological safety of lamps and lamp systems. UL can also provide testing services against this standard. Depending on the product, other applicable safety standards may also include provisions concerning LEDs. - Where can I find the User Guide information?
> A new user document giving more comprehensive guidance on the safe use of lasers was published in 2004 as PD IEC TR 60825-14. - Will my products require redesign to comply with the new requirements?
> Potentially, labeling or even construction features may be impacted, depending on the particular product and design features. You are advised to consult UL on the applicability of the new edition to your products. General information on laser safety can be found here.
For detailed information about IEC 60825-1 recertification, the CB Scheme, or any of the other UL services mentioned above, please contact your local UL account team now to learn more about how we can help you.
