When you’re facing a bird infestation that’s threatening your crops, warehouse, or commercial facility, it’s tempting to look for the "strongest" solution available.
For laser bird deterrents, that often leads to a choice between Class 3B and Class 4 lasers.
But "more power" does not mean "better"
At Birdzout, our priority is (and always will be) the care, safety, and protection of our users.
Which is why we choose to engineer our systems within the Class 3B threshold as using a Class 4 laser can transform a smart bird deterrent into a massive liability.
What is the Difference Between Class 3B and Class 4 Lasers?
The primary difference lies in the power output and the level of risk to humans, animals, and property.
- Class 3B Lasers (5mW to 499mW): These are the professional standard for bird dispersal. They are powerful enough to be visible over long distances (especially in the green spectrum), yet they are engineered to be manageable in a working environment.
- Class 4 Lasers (500mW and above): These are high-intensity industrial lasers. While they are marketed by some as "extra strength" bird control, they are technically in the same category as lasers used for surgery and metal cutting.
3 Reasons Why We Refuse to Go Higher Than Class 3B
While you may see Class 4 lasers appearing on the market, they bring "high-intensity" risks that have no place in a bird control strategy.
1. Extreme Ocular and Skin Risk
A Class 4 laser is an extreme hazard. It can cause instant, permanent eye damage and skin burns. Most dangerously, Class 4 lasers can cause injury via specular reflection (you could be blinded just by the beam hitting a window, a tractor mirror, or a metal shed and bouncing back at you)
2. Serious Fire Hazards
High-wattage Class 4 lasers carry enough thermal energy to ignite dry materials. In an agricultural or industrial setting, a beam hitting dry grass, hay, or dust can quickly turn a bird deterrent solution into a fire emergency.
3. Ethical and Humane Deterrence
The goal of a laser is to trigger a bird’s natural "flight" response by mimicking a physical threat. A Class 3B laser achieves this perfectly. A Class 4 laser, however, moves into the territory of physical harm, potentially burning feathers or blinding the birds, which is neither humane nor effective for long-term dispersal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a Class 4 laser better for daylight bird control?
No. While it is brighter, the increased risk of fire and permanent injury makes it unsuitable for bird control. A well-engineered Class 3B green laser provides the best option for bird deterrence without the danger.
Are Birdzout lasers legal to use?
Yes, our lasers are certified and compliant as well as tested by a third party. However, depending on your region there may be specific safety requirements for laser use.
Do I need safety goggles for a Class 3B laser?
While Class 3B is much safer than Class 4, direct eye exposure should always be avoided. We recommend following all safety guidelines provided in our user manuals. Laser Safety Glasses are available here
The Birdzout Standard: Certified, Tested, and Compliant
We want to be clear: Our lasers are not like the high-risk Class 4 units found elsewhere.
The Birdzout Auto Laser Ultimate Mk2 is purposefully engineered within the Class 3B threshold.
We don’t just claim to be safe; we prove it through rigorous standards:
- Third-Party Tested: Our systems have been independently evaluated to ensure they meet strict safety parameters.
- Fully Certified: We maintain full compliance with international laser safety standards.
- All Birdzout laser modules are tested for power output accuracy using high quality laser power meters that are calibrated yearly.
- User-Centric Engineering: Every Birdzout system is designed with the operator in mind, ensuring you get the results you need without endangering your staff or your neighbors.
Buy from the Experts Who Care
When you choose a bird deterrent, you aren’t just buying hardware; you’re buying a safety protocol. Some sellers will push high-power units without explaining the legal and physical risks involved.
At Birdzout, we believe in providing the most effective deterrent alongside the peace of mind that your property remains a safe place to work.
Contact the Birdzout team today to discuss how the Auto Laser Ultimate Mk2 can work for you.
Phone: +64 3 789 6047 or email hello@birdzout.com
