For Class IV lasers, what type of clothing is recommended for skin protection?

Class IV lasers are classified as high-powered lasers that can cause severe injury to skin and eyes upon exposure. As a precautionary measure, it is crucial to wear appropriate clothing that offers adequate protection against both direct exposure and potential collateral effects, such as reflections or scattered beams.

Flame retardant materials are recommended in this context because they offer several protective properties. They are specifically designed to be more resistant to ignition when exposed to intense heat or flames, which could be generated in the case of an accidental interaction with a Class IV laser. These materials can also provide some level of barrier against skin burns that could occur from a laser beam or its reflections, thus enhancing overall safety.

While loose-fitting fabric, regular cotton clothing, and denim may provide some comfort or modest protection, they do not offer the same level of safety or enhanced thermal resistance as flame retardant materials. Cotton can catch fire easily and may not effectively shield the skin from laser energy. Denim, while durable, does not inherently possess flame-resistant properties unless treated. Therefore, using flame retardant materials represents a more effective measure for skin protection in environments where Class IV lasers are utilized.