I. Standard Positioning and Scope of Application
GB/T 7247.1 (corresponding to IEC 60825-1) is a fundamental national standard for laser product safety, applicable to equipment containing laser
emitting devices such as laser methane detectors. This standard specifies the equipment classification, safety requirements, and user guidelines
for laser products, and serves as the core safety testing basis for products sold in the domestic market and during bidding processes.
II. Requirements for laser safety level classification
Laser methane detectors typically utilize near-infrared lasers (such as a wavelength of 1653 nm), and their safety levels need to be determined
according to GB/T 7247.1. The standard categorizes laser products into seven levels: Class 1, Class 1M, Class 2, Class 2M, Class 3R, Class 3B, and
Class 4. For testing and measuring laser products, the standard imposes special restrictions: invisible laser products are generally required to
meet Class 1; visible light laser products must not exceed Class 3R. Methane detectors often employ low-power lasers, which generally fall into
Class 1 or Class 2, but they need to be verified through actual testing.
III. Core testing items
The certification testing according to GB/T 7247.1 mainly includes the following contents:
Laser radiation parameter measurement: Accurately measure the laser output power, wavelength, beam divergence angle, irradiance, etc., and
confirm that its maximum permissible exposure (MPE) is within the safe range.
Exposure assessment: The level of laser radiation that personnel may be exposed to under normal use and single fault conditions of the detection
equipment.
Safety level determination: Determine the laser safety level of the product based on actual measured data, and verify whether it meets the limit
requirements of the corresponding level.
Structure and design review: Check whether safety designs such as protective baffles, attenuation devices, safety interlocks, and emergency stops
are in place.
Label and document review: Verify whether product labels, warning signs, nameplates, and user manuals contain complete safety information and
instructions for use.
IV. Certification Process
The first step is to prepare 1-2 sets of test prototypes, along with technical documents such as product specifications and inspection application forms.
The second step is to select a third-party testing institution with CNAS/CMA qualifications.
Step 3: Sign a testing contract, specifying the testing standards (GB/T 7247.1), fees, and duration.
Step 4: Mail the sample or apply for on-site testing, and the laboratory engineer will conduct laser radiation safety testing.
Step 5: The testing agency issues a test report and completes the safety level certification.
V. Relevance to other standards
GB/T 7247.1 is often used in conjunction with product-specific standards. For example, in laser methane detectors for coal mines, it is also necessary
to meet the industry requirements of NB/T 10182-2019; when used in explosion-proof environments, it must also comply with explosive atmosphere
equipment standards such as GB/T 3836.1. In addition, if the product is exported to the international market, it usually requires certifications such as
IEC 60825-1, EN 60825-1, or FDA 21 CFR 1040.10.
VI. Certification significance and compliance requirements
Obtaining certification according to GB/T 7247.1 signifies that the product meets national standards for laser radiation safety, effectively safeguarding
the eyes and skin of operators and preventing accidental injuries caused by laser leakage. Additionally, this certification serves as a crucial technical
document for domestic market access, as laser products that fail to pass safety assessments cannot be sold or used normally. After obtaining
certification, companies must continuously monitor standard updates and regularly maintain technical documentation to ensure ongoing compliance.
