Laser hazard labels

Compliant Labeling for Laser Safety and Regulatory Requirements

IEC and CDRH Standards for Laser Labeling

IEC laser labels are defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to have either a harmonized, alternative style or standard style. The label required by IEC depends on the visibility or non-visibility of the laser, where the label appears, and the laser’s class. The radiation output of the laser is specified on the safety label or an explanatory label separate from the product. In 2024, these requirements were updated to be more stringent, and our labels are designed to comply with updates in Laser Notice No. 56.

CDRH laser labels are requirements of the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) branch of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The labels are defined based on similar requirements as the IEC. The CDRH may require additional labeling next to their labeling. As of 2013, they comply with OSHA’s latest ANSI workplace safety sign formats. Alternative designs use global best practices focusing on symbols and color-coding to clarify risk. Find the right label your laser needs in our easy to search catalog.

Flexible Design Options for U.S. and International Markets

Wholesale Customize Labels laser labels are categorized by type of laser (Class 1, 2, 3, or 4; visible and invisible) and by location (on the laser product, interlocked panels, or non-interlocked panels). Select from designs that comply with CDRH (the FDA-accepted standard for on-product laser labels for U.S. markets) or with IEC 60825-1 (which defines the content and “look” of laser safety labeling for international markets). Finding the laser label that meets your specific requirements is easy, as we offer text only, symbol only, symbol and text, and multi-symbol and text formats, as well as indoor and outdoor options. Browse the labels here in our catalog, or visit our CDRH and IEC pages to create customized labels to fit your exact needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Hazard Labels

Are laser safety labels required by law?

Yes. Laser safety labels are required by regulatory bodies such as OSHA, the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH), and international standards like IEC 60825-1. These labels help identify laser classes, warn of potential eye and skin hazards, and ensure equipment is properly marked to reduce risk and maintain compliance.

What’s the difference between IEC and CDRH laser labels?

IEC laser labels are used internationally and follow standards set by the International Electrotechnical Commission. CDRH labels are required in the U.S. and are regulated by the FDA. While both include similar hazard information, CDRH labels often follow OSHA/ANSI formatting, and IEC labels may follow harmonized symbol-based formats.

What information must appear on a laser safety label?

Laser safety labels typically include the laser class (1 through 4), wavelength, maximum output, cautionary statements, and applicable symbols. Placement and formatting vary by laser type and standard (CDRH vs. IEC), but all must clearly communicate the hazard.

How do I know if I need a Class 1, 2, 3, or 4 laser label?

The class of laser label you need depends on the classification of your laser device, which is based on its output power and exposure risk. Class 1 lasers are low risk and may not need labeling, while Class 3 and 4 lasers pose greater danger and require detailed hazard labels.

Do your laser labels meet updated CDRH requirements?

Yes. Our laser safety labels are compliant with the latest updates in CDRH Laser Notice No. 56, including ANSI Z535 formatting and symbol options for enhanced clarity and compliance in the U.S. market.

Can I use the same laser label for both U.S. and international compliance?

Some labels are designed to meet both CDRH and IEC requirements, but it's important to verify based on your product's market and the regulatory expectations. We offer both styles and can help guide you to the right option or provide a dual-compliant custom design.

Can laser labels be customized for specific applications?

Absolutely. Wholesale Customize Labels offers custom laser safety label solutions to match your exact specifications - whether by class, language, format, or location of use (e.g., interlocked panels). You can choose text only, symbol-only, or combined label formats.