How to report a potentially unsafe laser show

Cameras can be set to make light or dark exposures. Because of this, photos or videos that depict apparently-too bright lasers can look misleadingly hazardous. On the other hand, pictures or videos depicting apparently dim lasers can look misleadingly safe.

For this reason, ILDA does not use the light levels in photos or videos exclusively to determine if a show is hazardous or safe. There needs to be other evidence or indications before trying to draw a conclusion.

In some cases, a video can prove whether a show is illegal. For example, a video can depict whether lasers scan into the audience. If the show is in the U.S., and the laser show company does not have an FDA variance permitting audience scanning, then the video is proof that the company violated its variance.

Videos have been cited by FDA as evidence in at least one case where FDA revoked a laser show company’s variance.

Generally, ILDA cannot tell you whether a laser effect or show is unsafe. Part of this is due to the problem cited above, where it is difficult to determine safety from a video.

If you do want to report to ILDA, please contact us describing the problem. It greatly helps if you have photos or videos, or a link to them. For videos, be sure to include example time stamps where you see the potentially unsafe effect; for example, "Lasers on audience members at 01:46."

We will get back with you with comments. ILDA does not contact FDA or other agencies though we do provide you with online information on how you can report unsafe laser light shows.

If the laser show was done by an ILDA Member, and you feel it is clearly unsafe, you can file an Ethics Complaint. While this is mostly used for violations of the Code of Ethics and Code of Business Practice, the same process can be used for violations of ILDA's Lasershow Safety - Basic Principles.

Note that while ILDA is responsible for its own Members following our Ethics and Safety guidance, we have no authority over non-members.

No matter whether the laser show was done by an ILDA Member or by a non-member, you are always free to contact the venue, authorities, etc. as described elsewhere on this page to report safety issues.