The beam or its specular reflection should never be directly viewed with optical instruments such as binoculars or telescopes without sufficient protective filters. Remove all unnecessary mirror-like surfaces from within the vicinity of the laser beam path. Fortunately, these high-power lasers are seldom used outside of research laboratories and restricted industrial environments where personnel access is carefully controlled. These lasers should only be operated within a localized enclosure, or in a controlled workplace, or where the beam is directed into outer space. If a complete local enclosure is not possible, laser operation indoors should be in a light-tight room with interlocked entrances to assure that the laser cannot emit while a door is open.
Eye protection is needed for all individuals working within the controlled area.
If the laser beam irradiance is sufficient to be a serious skin or fire hazard, a suitable shielding should be used between the laser beam and any personnel. Beam shutters, beam polarizers, and beam filters should always be used to limit use to authorized personnel only. The flashlamps in optical pump systems should be shielded to eliminate any direct viewing. Backstops should be diffusely reflecting-fire resistant target materials where feasible. Safety enclosures should be used around microwelding and microdrilling work pieces to contain hazardous reflections from the work area.