Lasers are commonly used in construction work for:

* alignment, * levelling, * control, * survey tasks

There are some requirements under the model WHS Regulations for the safe use of laser equipment in the workplace.

Under the model WHS Regulations, you must not use laser classes 3B and 4 (as defined in Australian Standard AS 2937:2015—Safe use of lasers in the building and construction industry) in construction work.

Laser classes that can be used for construction work are classes 1, 1M, 1C, 2, 2M and 3R. While class 3R lasers can be used for construction work, they should not be used in dimly lit work areas.

Class 1 and 1M lasers are considered safe under most conditions. Class 1M can be hazardous if the beam is viewed directly with a magnifying device.

Class 2 and 2M lasers emit visible light at higher levels than Class 1. Class 2M lasers can be hazardous if the beam is viewed directly with a magnifying device or deliberately looked at for prolonged periods.

Class 3R lasers produce visible and invisible light. There is low risk for eye injury if exposure time is short. There is no risk for skin injury.

Class 3B lasers produce visible or invisible light that is hazardous and can cause immediate eye damage. Some can also be powerful enough to cause skin burns.