Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview

Given the rapid expansion of communication services and the shift towards a more connected society, monitoring the levels of Non-Ionizing Radiation (NIR) to which the general population is exposed is more important than ever. This study is particularly relevant in environments like shopping malls where there is a high density of indoor antennas.

Methodology

The study was conducted in a shopping mall in Natal, Brazil, where measurements of the electric field were taken at six different points. These points were selected based on two criteria: high people flow and presence of Distributed Antenna System (DAS), which were either co-sited or independent of WiFi access points.

Findings

The measurements indicate that the highest levels of electric fields reached were 1.96 and 3.26 V/m. These values correspond to only 5% and 8% of the exposure limits set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the Brazilian National Telecommunication Agency (ANATEL), respectively.

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and adherence to established safety guidelines to mitigate health risks associated with NIR exposure in public spaces.