Since some light used in laser welding is invisible, it is difficult to take precautions against these potentially hazardous lights.  Radiation, fire, fumes and mists, mechanical, electric shock, eye and skin damage are all potential hazards associated with laser welding. 

• A laser is a device which produces an intense, coherent, directional beam of light.
• The term LASER is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.
• Lasers can be designed to deliver a large amount of energy to a very small area. In welding and cutting operations, this energy can heat metals quickly to very high temperatures.
• Much of the radiation that strikes the workpiece is reflected into the environment, creating hazards. Some laser light used in laser welding equipment is invisible, so the hazard may not be readily apparent.
• Typical lasers use electricity to create the unique coherent light that is very different from ordinary non-coherent light, such as that from a light bulb.
• This coherent light beam is parallel and can be focused to cut or weld metals.
• Radiation—Both visible and invisible light radiation are produced when welding or cutting.
• Fire—Since the laser system produces a very small spot size with high energy, the hazard of fire is present if the beam hits flammable material.
• Fumes And Mists—Lasers easily vaporize metals. In doing so, fumes and mists are created which can present a respiratory hazard.
• Mechanical—The optical device on the robotic arm or other beam manipulator can malfunction and send the laser beam in unintended directions.
• Electric Shock—Since lasers require a large amount of electrical power to accomplish specific tasks, electrical hazards are present.
• Eye And Skin Damage—Laser system eye and skin hazards are addressed in the ANSI Z136.1 standard. In many use situations, special laser eye protective devices are required.
• Thus the eyewear should provide primary beam protection, secondary radiation protection, and also ultraviolet protection.
• All laser welding and cutting installations are required to have a laser safety officer (LSO).
• In addition, provide certified laser protective eyewear, clothing, and shields where required.