Laser safety glasses often have numbers, letters, and symbols printed on the lenses or frames. To the untrained eye, these markings can be confusing—but they are critical for confirming whether the eyewear is suitable for your laser application and compliant with Australian safety requirements.

This guide explains how to read laser safety glasses markings in Australia and why they matter.

Wavelength Markings (nm)

Laser safety glasses are marked with the exact wavelength range they protect against, measured in nanometres (nm).

For example:

• 190–532nm

• 800–1700nm

• 10,600nm (CO₂)

If your laser wavelength is not shown, the glasses are not suitable, regardless of how dark the lenses appear.

Optical Density (OD) Ratings

Optical Density indicates how much laser energy is reduced by the lens.

Common examples:

• OD 3 = 99.9% attenuation

• OD 5 = 99.999%

• OD 7+ = extremely high protection

Australian workplaces typically determine required OD through a laser risk assessment or guidance from a laser safety officer.

Standards & Certification Codes

Laser safety glasses in Australia may reference:

• AS/NZS 2211.1

• EN 207 / EN 208

• ANSI Z136

These standards confirm testing, performance, and suitability for professional laser environments.

Why Markings Matter

Correct markings ensure:

• Legal compliance

• Adequate eye protection

• Insurance and workplace safety alignment

Unmarked or poorly marked eyewear should never be used around lasers.