The invention relates to an appliance for detecting objects in a detection region, with a radiation device for emitting an electromagnetic scanning beam into at least a part of the detection region and with a device for modulating the scanning beam as well as with a detection device for the detection of reflected radiation from at least a part of the detection region and with a device for evaluating the time response of the detected, reflected radiation, in dependence on the modulation of the scanning beam.According to the invention, one can envisage the radiation device comprising a radiation source radiating a diffusion device scattering the radiation at least partly into the detection region, in order to be able to apply an as powerful as possible laser as a t source without endangering the eye safety or the general safety of persons.