Laser pointers are generally lower powered than industrial or medical laser systems, but the potential eye hazard depends on the wavelength and output characteristics of the specific device.

Visible laser pointers may produce red, green, or blue beams, while some laser devices can produce radiation outside the visible spectrum.

Laser safety glasses should not be selected simply according to the visible color of a pointer. The exact wavelength should be identified first, followed by the appropriate Optical Density for the anticipated exposure.

For normal use, the safest approach is to prevent the beam from entering anyone's eyes and avoid directing the laser toward people, vehicles, aircraft, or reflective surfaces.

Higher-powered laser devices require substantially greater care. If a laser is being used in a professional, scientific, industrial, or experimental environment, the appropriate safety controls should be established according to the actual equipment specifications.

Laser safety glasses can provide an additional protective measure when there is a foreseeable exposure risk, but they should not encourage users to deliberately view or point a laser beam toward people.

If protective eyewear is required, the filter should be specifically rated for the laser wavelength and provide an appropriate OD.

The key principle is simple: never assume that a laser is safe because it is small or because its beam is visible. The wavelength, output, use environment, and exposure conditions all matter.