Reviewed 10 November 2026 · Original publication date shown above
Safety glasses not always what they appear
Cheap and unenclosed diode laser cutters have become very popular in recent years. Being low cost and sold by many online retailers — Amazon, AliExpress, Bol.com to name a few — they are now used by thousands of people across Europe, many of whom are unaware of the risk to their vision and health.
The legality of these grey-imported devices is one question we will cover in another article. However, for now we will focus on the more pressing matter of protecting yourself should you already own one.
While the importance of wearing protective goggles is known to many users, how many know that the goggles supplied and 'designed' to keep them safe from laser radiation are, in reality, often not providing the protection needed! A recent flurry of RAPEX reports demonstrates how widespread the issue is.
How do you know if your safety glasses are really offering the protection you need?
Laser protective eyewear is governed by the Personal Protective Equipment Regulation (EU) 2016/425.
PPE is an additional protective measure. It does not replace an effective enclosure, safe work procedures or a laser risk assessment.
Laser protective eyewear generally falls under Category II. This requires EU type-examination by a notified body, followed by conformity to type based on internal production control.
EN 207:2017 covers laser eye-protection requirements and markings. Select protection for the actual wavelength, operating mode and exposure conditions; a general OD claim alone is not sufficient.
What to look for
Check the wavelength range, operating-mode letters and LB protection levels marked on eyewear designed to EN 207. They must be suitable for the particular laser and exposure conditions.
The manufacturer issues the EU Declaration of Conformity. This is distinct from the EU type-examination certificate issued by a notified body. Check that the model, manufacturer and markings match across the product and documents.
The original DIN CERTCO example illustrates certificate verification. It is historical material and is not a current certificate for every product in our store. Verify the exact model and certificate status with the supplier or issuing body.
Where to order
Contact info@lasermachinesafety.eu with questions about laser protective eyewear or to request the conformity documents for a specific product.
