Why CE marking does not always guarantee laser safety

It's a common belief that a laser bearing the CE mark is automatically safe and compliant with European standards. However, this confidence can be misleading and dangerous. An increasing number of laser devices and machines, whether intended for entertainment, industry, research, or the medical sector, are being marketed on the European market without fully complying with safety requirements, despite an apparent CE mark.

🔍The essential points of a laser risk assessment

A laser audit must confirm the presence and proper functioning of essential safety devices:

✔️ Access control : Does the device limit use to trained operators using a secure system (key or code)?

✔️ Signage : Do the labels specify the laser class, wavelength, maximum power, and beam location?

✔️ Emergency stop : Is there an easily accessible stop button?✔️ Electrical safety : Does the enclosure prevent opening without tools and does it comply with electrical standards?

✔️ Manufacturer's plate : Does it show the name and full address of the manufacturer or its representative, the year of manufacture and the serial number?

✔️ User manual : Does the user manual clearly describe the intended use and residual risks?

✔️ EC/EU Declaration of Conformity : Does it include all applicable harmonized standards?

❌ CE marking: be careful not to overestimate its scope

CE marking is often perceived as a guarantee of absolute safety. In reality, it is based on self-declaration by the manufacturer , without systematic verification by an independent body. Non-compliance often results from a lack of awareness of regulatory requirements rather than fraudulent intent, which exposes users to major risks.

📄 Is your laser a machine? Check it out

For lasers considered as machines, several regulations and standards apply:

For an overview if you have a laser machine or a laser device/product: 🔗 Complete guide in English

The main potential requirements for a laser product

• Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC

  It defines the essential health and safety requirements for the design and manufacture of machinery placed on the market or in service in the EU. It aims to protect users by ensuring that machinery is safe.

• EN-11553-1: 2020

  Safety of machinery - Laser machines - Part 1: General requirements for laser safety

• EN-60825-1: 2014

  Safety of laser equipment – Part 1: Equipment classification and requirements.

• EN-60825-4: 2006

  Safety of laser equipment - Part 4: Laser barriers.

  
  

To find out the list of all relevant standards and regulations applicable to the field of laser safety: Laser safety standards and regulations

📜 Manufacturer's obligations

For each laser considered as a machine, the manufacturer must:

1. Conduct a risk assessment.

2. Comply with health and safety requirements

3. Provide notice.

4. An EC declaration of conformity.

5. CE marking on the machine.

💡 Questions to ask before buying a laser

Before investing, make sure the supplier is reliable by checking:

✅ Is the manufacturer recognized and firmly established in the EU?

✅ Can he provide the EC declaration of conformity and complete documentation?

Conclusion

Don't rely solely on the CE marking to judge a laser's safety. Understanding the risks and regulatory requirements is essential. Proper training is essential to protect your users and ensure compliance.

Discover our laser safety training courses , available in-person or online, designed to meet the specific requirements of your sector. They will help you master best practices and remain compliant with current regulations.