What type of laser is commonly associated with potential burn hazards to the eye?

CO2 lasers are commonly associated with potential burn hazards to the eye due to their specific wavelength and the mechanisms by which they interact with biological tissues. The wavelength of CO2 lasers is around 10.6 micrometers, which falls within the infrared region. This wavelength is highly absorbed by water and biological tissues, meaning that when the laser comes into contact with tissue, it generates significant heat, leading to burn risks.

In terms of eye safety, the properties of CO2 lasers pose particular dangers since the eye lacks the necessary protective structures that would prevent absorption of such infrared radiation. The cornea and lens can absorb this energy, which can lead to thermal injuries or burns to the ocular tissues. This highlights the importance of appropriate eye protection whenever CO2 lasers are in use and emphasizes the need for rigorous safety protocols when working in environments where CO2 lasers are employed.

Understanding the risks associated with different types of lasers is essential for practitioners to ensure safety during procedures, which is why the identification of CO2 lasers as a potential hazard is critical in laser safety training.