Laser material processing is gaining increasing importance in micro and macro machining. During laser processing of polymers, metals, and ceramics dangerous air pollutants have to be considered with regard to occupational safety. Moreover, technical measures for the handling of Laser Generated Air Contaminants (LGACs) often contribute to more than 10 \% of the operating costs of laser machinery. Therefore, data are required for an adequate design and scaling of emission capturing systems. The aim of the presented study is to give an overview on characterization, handling, and filtration of non-beam hazards during laser processing as well as a consideration of economic aspects. Based on these data we will introduce the Laser Micropyrolysis-GC/MS as a novel method for emission prognosis. Finally, the effectivity of technical measures for a variety of laser machining processes is evaluated.