Laser Pointers

My laser pointer is class IIIb, 532 nm with an output of < 30 mW. It complies with 21 CFR chapter1, subchapter J, which, I believe, is the same set of requirements that cover supermarket point-of-sales laser scanners. I think the requirements are concerned with net direct exposure. A pulsed laser can have a higher instantaneous output than a steady-state (cw) laser if the duty cycle of the pulses yield a lower long-term average exposure. I haven't worked in the field for a while, so someone with more recent experience may have better knowledge.

If you you have a class III b Pointer it dose not comply with with 21 CFR chapter1, subchapter J, Because pointers can only be class III a devices <5mw. >5mw becomes class III b which requires a key switch and a shutter on the aperture. as for the pulsed I don't recall rules on thous. and the super market point of sale lasers are class III a devices as well with scanning mirrors that in effect do the same thing to the power output that pulsing with a low duty cycle dose. The glass cover also attenuates the output as well. Bottom line to be safe to the human eye the power can not exceed 0.3mw/cm^2

You may be right, but that's what the manufacturer's label says. It has a push button, but no key switch or shutter. Guess I'd better hide it if the BATF shows up.