What is the deal with IR filters and GREEN lasers?

Question

I have read it makes them "safe" -- I am assuming this just means it makes them so they wont burn your eye out if it shines right in your eye. Is there more to it than that?

@amansscientiae: NO DUH -- I am not going to shine the laser in my eye!!!!!!

However, in some comments I was reading, some person mentioned not to use it indoor's without an IR filter.

So my question is -- is this person saying that, just because.....

of the increased chance that the beam could reflect back into your eye, when you are indoors (Where there are a lot more shiny and reflective things than outdoors)

OR

Because there is even risk of eye damage, if, for instance, it was just pointed at a white wall, with all the light being reflected (despite the fact is is completely spread out at that point)

So to sum it up. I am trying to find out if the IR filter, is just a precaution against the possibility of accidental direct eye exposure, or if there is more to it. (i.e. even indirect eye exposure (looking at the dot on a wall, can cause damage without IR Filter.)

Answer 1

An IR filter won't effect the green laser line, unless is just happens to attenuate green too. I suspect you are using a multiline laser that has an incidental IR line. This can be particularly dangerous because you cannot see it. If you have no use for it the IR filter will block it and, therefore, improve safety.

Answer 2

Why would you shine a green laser right in your eye? Are you filming "Jackass III"?

Seriously. If you want to be safe from any laser, you HAVE TO use the eye safety filter specifically designed to filter that wavelength. Anything else does not cut it. You can get laser safety goggles for next to nothing compare to replacing your retina. ...

Oh, yeah... you can't get your retina replaced for any money in the world!