Laser pointer prohibition: improving safety or driving misclassification

TL;DR

This study examines whether Australia's strict laser pointer laws have improved safety or merely driven illegal market activity, revealing that suppliers bypass regulations, potentially harming consumer safety.

Contribution

It provides an empirical analysis of laser pointers available in Australia, showing how suppliers circumvent restrictions and the implications for safety and regulation effectiveness.

Findings

Suppliers bypass laser restrictions effectively

Availability of prohibited lasers persists despite laws

Safety impact of illegal lasers may be negative

Abstract

It is well known that since 2008 Australia has had some of the world's most restrictive laws regarding the possession and importation of "laser pointers" with powers exceeding 1 mW. Now four years on Australia is used as a test case and question whether this has actually improved safety for those wishing to purchase these devices or if it has impacted on the availability of prohibited devices. Results from the analysis of over 40 laser pointers legitimately purchased in Australia from local and International suppliers are presented. Specifically lasers that are readily available to everyday consumers through the simple on-line search "laser pointer 1mw" are targeted. The parameters investigated are quoted power versus measured power, correct representation in advertising and adherence to laser standards as related to specified use and purchase price. The analysis indicates that the suppliers in this market have learnt how to bypass the prohibition and the impact on general safety in these cases is detrimental.