Laser Classification
Lasers have been categorized into 7 hazard classes based on accessible emission limits or AELs. These limits indicate the class of the laser and are listed in the American National Standards ANSI Z136.1 for Safe Use of Lasers and European standard IEC 60825-1.
"Figure 1” describes similarities and differences between the ANSI Z136.1 and IEC 60825 standards for the seven classes along with the FDA/CDRH Federal Laser Product Performance Standard (FLPPS) classification scheme.