Carpenters, Handymen - a question about laser measuring devices

[JBR]

I own a Bosch laser measurer, not a super expensive one but, for example, good for measuring wall to wall lengths, calculating floor areas, etc. It's been quite a while since I read the tiny booklet that came with it, but yesterday in going through a file box of manuals that I keep on hand I decided to peruse the finer print in this one.

I saw there a warning that I had originally not paid attention to. It tells the user not to point the red dot at anything flammable. Not that I've ever even accidentally done that, to my recollection. But I doubted this could actually be a genuine hazard. Still, maybe somebody here knows the facts about this.

 

[Grampa Don]

I think the manufacturer is just covering his bottom. Maybe if you pointed it at some gunpowder. If it could really start a fire, you should probably wear eye protection.

 

[Paco Dennis]

I own a Bosch laser measurer, not a super expensive one but, for example, good for measuring wall to wall lengths, calculating floor areas, etc. It's been quite a while since I read the tiny booklet that came with it, but yesterday in going through a file box of manuals that I keep on hand I decided to peruse the finer print in this one.

I saw there a warning that I had originally not paid attention to. It tells the user not to point the red dot at anything flammable. Not that I've ever even accidentally done that, to my recollection. But I doubted this could actually be a genuine hazard. Still, maybe somebody here knows the facts about this.

Let's bring out the big gun to answer this mystery. claude.ai I copied and pasted your questions to claude...

The warning about not pointing the laser at flammable objects in your Bosch laser measurer manual is likely an abundance of caution rather than a serious hazard for most users.
Laser measurers typically use Class 2 lasers, which are considered safe for momentary exposure. These lasers are low-power and generally cannot ignite flammable materials under normal circumstances.
However, there are a few reasons why the manufacturer might include this warning:

1. Legal precaution: Companies often include extensive warnings to protect themselves from potential liability.
2. Extreme scenarios: In theory, if the laser were focused on a highly flammable material for an extended period, it could potentially cause heating. This is extremely unlikely in normal use.
3. Reflective surfaces: Lasers can be reflected and potentially concentrated by certain surfaces, which could increase their power in a specific spot.
4. Specific materials: Some extremely sensitive materials used in specialized settings might be more reactive to laser light.
5. Misuse prevention: The warning discourages users from intentionally trying to use the device improperly.

For typical household use measuring walls, floors, and other common surfaces, the risk of igniting anything with your laser measurer is negligible. The warning is primarily a precautionary measure to cover all possible scenarios and promote safe use of the device.
If you'd like more specific information about your particular model, you could check the laser class on the device or in the manual, or contact Bosch customer support for clarification.


PD
give the resources for this information


I apologize, but I don't actually have access to specific resources or citations for this information. My response was based on general knowledge about laser safety and common practices in product warnings, but I don't have links to specific sources. When discussing technical topics like this, it's important to note that I may not always have the most up-to-date or comprehensive information.
For the most accurate and current information about your specific Bosch laser measurer, I'd recommend:

1. Reviewing the full manual that came with your device
2. Checking the Bosch website for product information and safety guidelines
3. Contacting Bosch customer support directly
4. Consulting general laser safety guidelines from reputable organizations like OSHA or the Laser Institute of America

These sources would provide more authoritative and specific information about laser measurers and their safety considerations. I apologize for not being able to provide direct citations, and thank you for asking about the sources - it's always good to verify information, especially when it comes to safety matters.

 

[Nathan]

I use several devices with a laser, there is no heat in the laser beam at all.

 

[stretch5881]

I bought a cheap one just for putting in some horseshoe pits. I haven't used it since.
For cabinets, built-ins and cement work, I still use a straight edge and bubble level.
I had a company mud jack my garage floor and they used a transit. That's what he learned to use decades ago and didn't see laser as being much of an upgrade.