Are Visual Fault Locator (VFL) Lasers Safe?

VFL's visible red light (650nm ± 10nm) are classified as Class II by IEC 60825-1. All types of lasers shall be handled with caution and never pointed to a person's eyes.

Yes, in general, they can be considered safe. VFLs use red lasers (650nm ± 10nm). These Class II lasers are low power (<1mW) visible light sources. However, avoid looking directly into a Class 2 laser beam or pointing a laser beam at a person's eyes. Long time exposure could result into damage to the eyes. (Also be aware of reflective surfaces that could redirect the beam at a person). Never view a fiber connector carrying Class 2 laser beams with an optical microscope.

Class 2M lasers are also considered generally safe. As with class 2 lasers, the blink reflex helps protecting the eyes from unmagnified beams.

In the case of visual fault locators, make sure the laser source (port) is properly mated to a connector, before turning it ON. The red light traveling through the fiber under test will leak through breaks, bends, poor splices, and other faults, illuminating potential failure points.