Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview

This review critically evaluates recent updates to the exposure limits for radiofrequency (RF) radiation particularly above 6 GHz according to the standards set by the International Commission on Nonionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP 2020) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE C95.1-2019).

Findings

• Comparative analysis of thermal damage and pain data from RF energy and infrared energy exposures.
• Assessment of safety factors within IEEE and ICNIRP RF exposure limits.
• The benchmarks for thermal damage are derived from the ICNIRP IR standards, focusing on minimal epithelial damage to the cornea and first-degree burns.
• Identification of exposure limits where cutaneous pain occurs within approximately 20 minutes, and thermal damage for longer exposure times.
• Discussion on limitations of existing data and thermal models.

Conclusion

It is evident that exposure levels far exceeding current ICNIRP and IEEE limits would be necessary to cause thermal hazards. Nonetheless, continual reassessment of these limits is crucial given the significance of accumulated thermal effects and their potential health risks, particularly to exposed tissues like skin and cornea within the high-frequency range of 6 GHz to 300 GHz.