Relation between ICNIRP and IEC standards
IEC TC 76 is adopting the ICNIRP exposure limits for the exposure of the eye and the skin and defines them as emission limits for product safety classes. The power which is permitted for lasers of Class 1 therefore results directly from the ICNIRP limits for the exposure of the eyes. In case the exposure limits are being amended by ICNIRP, a corresponding amendment of the emission limits is carried out by the IEC. The experts of IEC TC 76 also specify important measurement and test procedures apart from the fundamental definition of classes. The classification of the product results from the comparison of the emitted power of the product with the emission limits. There are certain requirements for the warning labels and design of the products, which have to be met depending on the class. In many cases, for a given product group, a “maximum” laser class is permitted – as for instance laser Class 1 for electric toys (according to IEC 62115).
For the correct application of the standards IEC 60825-1 and IEC 62471, background knowledge on bio-effects as well as on measuring and testing procedures of the IEC standards is not only very advantageous but in the classification of complex sources seems even indispensable. Due to our active participation in IEC TC 76 as well as with our research know-how, we are able to offer the exclusive combination of background knowledge about the relevant IEC standards as well as about bio-effects.