Since the very first use of optical systems in the process industries there has been a tacit assumption that, because they are not electrical, they do not present an ignition risk when used in flammable atmospheres. This paper describes about an optical ignition mechanism from experimental work carnied out by Sira Safety Services Limited(UK) and whether there is sufficient of an ignition risk for precautions to be advisable when optical systems are used in flammable atmospheres.