FAQ

LASER FAQs

How do I clean my laser safety eyewear? 

NoIR approves the following cleaning methods for NoIR, UVShield®, GlareShield® and LaserShield® eyewear:

·         Mild detergent/soap and hot water

·         Diluted isopropyl alcohol solutions (70-85% max)

·         Commercially available lens cleaning solutions

·         UV disinfection (Click here for an example)

·         Clean NoIR eyewear with clear water and neutral cleaning agents and dry gently with a soft cloth. Improper cleaning can damage the lens surface and/or compromise the integrity of the lens or frame.

 

·         Do not use caustic chemicals or acidic cleaning fluids

·         Do not insert into sterilization of disinfectant fluids

·         Do not clean with ultrasonic systems

·         NoIR's polycarbonate and glass lenses are mounted into nylon or polycarbonate frames. Filter absorption and protection properties are molded into the lenses and won't fade, scratch, bleach or wear off. However, discard and replace eyewear if surface scratches impair vision or if the eyewear is broken, cracked or otherwise cosmetically compromised.

 

Do NoIR filters have an expiration date?

The official expiration date is 5 years, however, the protection provided by the filter is molded into the lens and does not decrease if the eyewear is well preserved, unscratched, and properly cared for. The protection does not degrade, scratch off or photobleach.  Glasses that show any damage to the filter or frame, or discoloration should be replaced. If you have any concerns, please contact us with your questions.

 

How do I know if my wavelength (λ) and optical density (OD) are correct?

Please consult your laser manual to verify these parameters or contact our sales department for help in determining the most appropriate filter choice.

 

How do I know what filter to select?

When given a selection of filters that fit the specified wavelengths and OD for your application, choose the one with the highest VLT. If you are unsure and need assistance, please contact our sales department for help in determining the most appropriate filter choice.

 

Can i see the laser beam with the glasses?

Laser safety eyewear is designed for full protection, as determined by EN207 or ANSI Z136, or to provide beam attenuation to a safe level while still allowing visibility of the beam or spot for alignment. Full protection eyewear is specified for laser radiation of the specified wavelength or wavelength ranges and to absorb or reflect the beam completely. So, the beam spot of a visible laser radiation is not visible anymore. Alignment eyewear, as defined by EN208, attenuates the beam energy to a safe level while still allowing visibility. For full protection glasses, if the beam is still visible, this would mean that the protection level of the glasses is not high enough, or that secondary radiation (at a different wavelength) is generated. Please check carefully whether the marking of the laser safety. eyewear matches the requirements of the laser. The protection of carefully selected eyewear will remain stable when hit by the laser throughout a minimum period of 5 seconds 50 pulses under standardized conditions. Nevertheless, it is under no circumstances advisable to look into the beam directly.

 

What can I do when I have to align my visible laser? Do I have to put down my glasses?

You should never put down your laser safety glasses when working with lasers above class II. NoIR offers a full line of certified Visible Alignment LaserShields for safe viewing of visible laser energy by attenuating the beam to below the Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) and still passing >1mW of visible energy.

Alignment filters do not absorb or reflect the laser radiation completely. The radiation is only reduced to values below 1mW for continuous wave lasers (see laser class 2). It must be taken care, that the average power of the laser does not exceed the power (R – protection level) given on the glasses.

 

Can I have the glasses with a different color filter?

The color of the filter is determined by the requirements for particular wavelengths or ranges at specific optical densities and there may not be a choice of different colors for a given set of parameters. Often, though, there will be a selection of several options and the decision which filter to use should then take into consideration the VLT and color recognition. 

 

What does VLT mean?

Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) is the percentage of the visible spectrum (380 to 720nm) transmitted through the lens, weighted against the sensitivity of the human eye. 

As a rule, the higher the VLT, the better. 65-35% VLT is generally high enough to be useful in all environments, where VLTs in the 20s and below should only be used in well-illuminated working environments.

 

What is Optical Density?

Optical density is the attenuation or reduction of energy transmitted through the lens. The higher the OD value is, the higher the attenuation and the greater the protection level. Optical density is directly related to wavelength since it measures the ratio of light absorbed to a specific wavelength. A measure of the transmittance through an optical medium.  

 

Are NoIR products covered by warranty?

NoIR LaserShields are warranted to the original purchaser for one full year from the date of purchase against any defect in lens material and workmanship. LaserShield® frames are warranted for 5 years against any defect in material and workmanship, while PetSpex™ laser goggle frames are covered for 2 years.. NoIR will repair or replace, at our option, any standard LaserShield® or NoIR product found to be defective - exclusive of damage caused by alterations, improper or unreasonable use. This warranty does not apply to normal wear, including lens scratching or accidental breakage. This warranty does not cover shipping costs. Please refer to product instructions for use for detailed warranty information and limitations. 

 

How long do I have to return an item?

NOIR standard products that are unused and in original condition may be returned for refund or exchange within 15 days of receipt. In the event product received is damaged/defective, NoIR must be contacted within 15 days of receipt for refund/exchange to be honored.
All returns are subject to a 15% restocking fee. NoIR products that are special order or custom configuration may not be returned. 
Please call us with any questions regarding the return process.