1995 Protocol IV on the Conventional Weapons Convention on Blinding Laser Weapons.pdf
Article 1
It is prohibited to employ laser weapons specifically designed, as their sole combat function or
as one of their combat functions, to cause permanent blindness to unenhanced vision, that is to
the naked eye or to the eye with corrective eyesight devices. The High Contracting Parties shall
not transfer such weapons to any State or non-State entity.
Article 2
In the employment of laser systems, the High Contracting Parties shall take all feasible
precautions to avoid the incidence of permanent blindness to unenhanced vision. Such
precautions shall include training of their armed forces and other practical measures.
Article 3
Blinding as an incidental or collateral effect of the legitimate military employment of laser
systems, including laser systems used against optical equipment, is not covered by the
prohibition of this Protocol.
Article 4
For the purpose of this protocol “permanent blindness” means irreversible and uncorrectable
loss of vision which is seriously disabling with no prospect of recovery. Serious disability is
equivalent to visual acuity of less than 20/200 Snellen measured using both eyes.