Laser Marking Machines: International vs. Local Safety Standards

The article analyzes the key differences between the safety standards for laser markers in Taiwan and abroad, including the specific requirements of international certifications (such as CE and FDA) and Taiwan's GB standards. The article helps users understand the key points of equipment selection, use, and compliance, avoiding the potential risks of standard differences.

Why should we pay attention to such differences?

When we buy laser marking machines, we probably don't think about the differences in safety standards among different countries.But when they actually started using the equipment, they discovered that some of it, although certified as safe in foreign countries, didn't work as well in Taiwan.For example, the CE certification standard for laser protection used in Europe differs in some details from the GB 7247.1 standard used in Taiwan.These differences can affect equipment efficiency and even pose safety risks.

This is the core difference between domestic and international safety standards.

Laser radiation limit requirements.

The IEC 60825 standard, for example, emphasizes protection in long-term work environments, and requires that all equipment be labeled as either Class 1 or Class 4.The domestic standard (GB 7247.1) in addition to radiation intensity, also stresses the sealing of the equipment housing to prevent accidental leakage of light.In short, foreigners put more stock in labels, and we put more stock in physical protection.

Emergency braking system design.

In foreign countries, laser equipment is required to have an emergency stop button that must be prominently displayed and independent of the main control system.In addition, the domestic standard requires that after the emergency stop the equipment must automatically cut off the air and electrical circuits to prevent residual energy from causing accidents.This is particularly important for laser welding equipment. When purchasing imported equipment, be sure to check whether the equipment is compatible with local power grids.

Training standards for operators.

The EU requires manufacturers to provide standardized training videos and manuals, and in Taiwan, in addition to basic training, companies must keep records of the results of tests taken by operators.Some small companies may try to save money by giving you only a USB flash drive with the course on it. This is a definite no-no, because it will make it impossible to pass your annual license renewal exam.

How can firms respond to these differences in standards?

Dual certification is the priority.

If you are selling to both foreign and domestic markets, it is suggested that you find a model that has both CE and GB certification.Nowadays many domestic brands have already achieved "dual certification," and their prices are about 30 % lower than those of pure imports.

Localization is also important.

For example, some factories have imported equipment from the U.S., but because the emergency stop button was not connected to the local alarm system, the factory was ordered to suspend operations until the problem was corrected.Therefore, after importing equipment, it is essential to have the supplier cooperate in making the necessary adjustments for the local market. Don't try to save a few thousand dollars on the service.

A few little tips for self-checking.

Every quarter, take a picture of the CD-ROM drive's laser head with your mobile phone's camera (don't turn the computer on!). If you see a bright red dot, it means that the protective cover may have cracks.You can then compare this with the standard number on the equipment ’ s label, and check the latest version of the standard on the National Standards Information Public Service Platform to avoid the problem of using an outdated standard.

It is written last.

In the end, safety standards are about saving us money and peace of mind.The next time you are in the market for equipment, you might consider passing this article along to your supplier, and asking them "have you met these criteria?After all, no matter how advanced the machinery, safety is always the bottom line, right?