A flexible laser safety curtain is disclosed that utilizes a plurality of
columns flexibly attached to one another along their longitudinal edges
in such a manner as to create a curtain of columns. The base of each
column contains a cavity within which at least one moveable element,
columnar in form, may be located and protrude from the cavity. The
moveable element, when pressed against a work surface, is forced into the
cavity. A biasing element within the cavity provides an opposite force on
the moveable elements to both keep the moveable element in contact with
the work surface, and to return the moveable element to its original
position when the inward force is removed. The curtain's edge follows the
contours of an uneven work surface and thereby the curtain provides a
complete barrier to laser radiation.