Abstract

Abstract Summary:

Overview

Given the increasing use of communication services and the rise of the connected society, monitoring the levels of Non-Ionizing Radiation (NIR) exposure within public spaces is vital. Shopping malls, in particular, host a high number of people and numerous indoor antennas, making them crucial areas for in-depth NIR analysis.

Methodology

This study was conducted in a shopping mall in Natal, Brazil, utilizing six strategically chosen measurement points. These points were selected based on two main criteria: high people flow and proximity to one or multiple Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) and WiFi access points.

Findings

• The electric field measurements were assessed at distances categorized as 'near' and 'far' from DAS installations.
• Two exposure scenarios were examined based on the density of people present: low and high.
• The highest electric field peaks measured were 1.96 V/m and 3.26 V/m, representing only 5% and 8% of the permissible exposure limits set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the Brazilian National Telecommunication Agency (ANATEL).

Conclusion

The data suggest while the NIR levels in these areas are currently within accepted safety margins, the close proximity to such sources and potential for increased public exposure highlights the continuous need for vigilant monitoring and regulatory review in densely populated public environments to ensure public health and safety.