Class 4 radiation on Fiber Optic Cable

kenp@laserproductsafety.com (Photon Regulator) — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 20:27:00 +0000

Although IEC 60825-2 does not allow Hazard Level 4, it does allow Class 4 radiation on fiber optic cable.

In the past, Class 4 on fiber was not common place on Optical Networks (ONs), in fact, it was almost unheard of. But now, ONs are transmitting Class 4 radiation on a regular basis. Of course, most ONs have built in Automatic Power Reduction (APR) systems to reduce the Class 4 to Hazard Levels 3B and less in case of a fiber break or fiber disconnect.

However, Class 4 radiation on fiber raises the safety risk significanty. Not only is Class 4 radiation an acute hazard to the eyes and skin, it is also an acute fire hazard to low flammability rated material. IEC TC76 is in the process of preparing a new document intended to give safety guidance to users of ONs transmitting Class 4 radiation. This document is IEC 60825-17.

Laser Product Safety LLC will provide more on this issue in the upcoming months as it develops.

Laser Product Safety Bulletin

Class 4 radiation on Fiber Optic Cable