Abstract

Overview

This study focused on evaluating radiofrequency exposure levels near nursery and primary schools on Crete Island, Greece. Goals included assessing compliance with Greek legislation on exposure limits through extensive measurements.

Methodology

A comprehensive survey involved 396 in situ measurements around 69 schools, covering seven frequency bands from 27 to 3000 MHz. Techniques utilized included both frequency-selective and broadband measurements, with an emphasis on calculating the radiofrequency exposure ratio.

Key Findings

• The majority (90%) of electric field measurements were below 1 V/m.
• Significant exposure contributors included mobile communications and broadcasting frequencies, with greater exposure levels observed in urban areas.
• The study confirmed general compliance with reference exposure levels mandated by Greek law, with exposure ratio median values notably low across all scenarios tested.

Conclusion

Exposure levels predominantly adhered to safety standards, although urban areas showed slightly higher readings than suburban ones. Highlighting safety, nearly all observed values were beneath the stringent regulatory thresholds, affirming a minimized health risk from EMF in these environments.

Future Research

Proposed future investigations include more detailed EMF measurements inside school facilities and additional comparative studies to monitor changes related to new 5G technologies.