Human Exposure to Non-Ionizing Radiation from Indoor Distributed Antenna System: Shopping Mall Measurement Analysis

Abstract

Overview

Monitoring the levels of Non-Ionizing Radiation (NIR) that people are exposed to in highly frequented environments is crucial. This study evaluates the electric field intensities in a bustling shopping mall in Natal, Brazil, a location with numerous indoor antennas.

Methodology

The research team established six measurement points based on criteria such as high people flow and proximity to Distributed Antenna System (DAS) co-sited with WiFi access points. Measurements varied depending on the proximity to DAS and the density of people within the mall.

• Peak Electric Field Measurements: The highest electric field measurements were 1.96 V/m and 3.26 V/m.
• Comparison to Safety Limits: These values represent only 5% and 8% of the limits set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the Brazilian National Telecommunication Agency (ANATEL).

Findings

The study found that the peak electric fields were significantly lower than the regulatory limits, and varied depending on the number of nearby antennas and the crowd density. Notably, areas with multiple antennas demonstrated a discernible variation in electric field intensity between near and far conditions.

Conclusion

While the NIR exposure levels were below established safety thresholds, the study stresses the need for continued vigilance. Given the lack of a definitive global consensus on NIR's health implications, precautionary measures in antenna placement and public guidance on moderate mobile phone use are recommended.