FIA guide to safe optical power levels in fibre optic applications Released 27 September 2002 The increased use of potentially dangerous optical power sources as fibre optic media becomes more prevalent in the LAN environment has prompted the Fibreoptic Industry Association to publish its latest Technical Support Document, 2000-5-1, Optical Power Safety Levels. The 850nm, 1300/1310nm and 1550nm wavelengths commonly used to power optical networks are all in the infra-red part of the electromagnetic spectrum; they are invisible to the naked eye, so consequently there is no blink reaction, even to high powered emissions. Exposure to such light sources can cause severe eye damage, including total loss of sight. The guide describes the classification of sources into Classes 1, the safest, to Class 4; it defines unrestricted, restricted and controlled access areas and details the restrictions applicable to the use of different source Classes in each area, the precautions to be taken and the type of warning labels required. The responsibilities are quite specific: for example, it is the original installer’s duty to designate access areas and correctly to label them; however, if the layout is subsequently modified by the user, the responsibility and liability then pass on to the user. The TSD is an interpretation of the relevant BS Standard, BS EN 60825, and is intended to be read in conjunction with the published BS Specification. The guide is available by download from the FIA website, www.fibroptic.org.uk, on CD or as hard copy. It is free to FIA members; it costs £75 to non-members who can order online or by contacting the Secretariat on 01763 273039 or by email jane@fiasec.demon.co.uk. *** Ends: body copy 256 words *** Notes to Editors. For further information: FIA commercial contact: Andrew Watson Commercial Director c/o Molex Premise Networks tel: 01489 572111 fax: 01489 559130 arwatson@molex.com FIA administrative contact: Jane Morrison Fibreoptic Industry Association The Manor House Buntingford SG9 9AB tel: 01763 273039 fax: 01763 273255 jane@fiasec.demon.co.uk www.fibreoptic.org.uk Agency contact: Nigel May Parkfield Parkfield House Damerham SP6 3HQ tel: 01725 518321 fax: 01725 518378 nigel.may@parkfield.co.uk www.parkfield.co.uk The Fibreoptic Industry Association represents more than 80% of UK companies involved in the manufacture or installation of fibre optic components and systems for voice and data communications. The Association provides advice to end-users, runs training and qualification services for its members, contributes to the development of national and international standards and generally represents the interests of the fibre industry. Its web site, www.fibreoptic.org.uk provides a free online reference service to all visitors.