What risk is associated with Class 2 lasers?

Class 2 lasers are considered low-risk under certain conditions because they emit visible light, which triggers a natural protective reflex in the human eye. This reflex typically causes people to blink, thereby reducing the amount of laser exposure. However, if a person looks directly at a Class 2 laser for extended periods, the intensity of the light can pose a risk of eye injury due to the potential for the light to overwhelm the protective blink reflex. This understanding highlights the necessity for caution when dealing with Class 2 lasers, particularly with prolonged exposure or direct viewing.

In contrast, the other options present misunderstandings of the risks associated with Class 2 lasers. For instance, while the risk of permanent damage to tissue is a concern with higher-class lasers, Class 2 lasers, due to their lower power output, are not likely to cause such damage under normal circumstances. It is also incorrect to suggest that there is no risk at any distance, as the risk of eye injury persists at close range and with extended exposure. Furthermore, while reflective environments can increase the potential for laser hazards, the classification of Class 2 lasers does not limit their risk only to such situations; thus, this option is not valid.