RF Health Safety Limits and Recommendations
Abstract
Overview
The rapid spread of cellular mobile devices has heightened global concerns regarding the safety and biological effects of RF radiation. This review critically examines existing health safety limits, rules, and recommendations relevant to RF radiation emitted by these devices.
Findings
- The paper evaluates the standards set by prominent bodies like the FCC, ICNIRP, and ICES concerning human exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs).
- Current RF exposure limits focus primarily on the prevention of short-term heating effects and are not designed for long-term exposure at lower levels.
- Critical analysis reveals that these rules are based on outdated research and do not adequately protect specific groups including children, workers, and individuals with electromagnetic hypersensitivity.
- Particular concerns are raised regarding the adequacy of guidelines to address the health impacts of next-generation 5G technology and the associated millimeter-wave radiation.
Conclusion
The review concludes that the revised guidelines are limited in scope, relying on antiquated data and metrics that fail to encompass complex modern exposure scenarios and the latest scientific findings. This calls into question the effectiveness of existing regulations in protecting public health from RF radiation risks.