ICNIRP Guidelines’ Exposure Assessment Method for 5G Millimetre Wave Radiation May Trigger Adverse Effects

Authors: Redmayne M, Maisch DR

Year: 2023

Category: Public Health

Journal: Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health

DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075267

URL: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/20/7/5267

Abstract

Overview

The International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) has updated their guidelines, leading to this critical analysis regarding the implications for 5G technologies utilizing millimetre wave frequencies. This analysis challenges recent regulatory updates meant to guide the latest advancements in 5G telecommunication technology.

Findings

  • The deployment plans for 5G involve millimetre wave frequencies in the 30–300 GHz range, marking a significant shift in data transmission technologies including the usage of beamforming for near-field exposures.
  • Examination of ICNIRP's new approach reveals concerns about its adequacy to prevent heat damage and other adverse bio-effects, particularly highlighting the insufficiency of surface-only exposure assessments for local exposures above 6 GHz.
  • Significant evidence suggests that the available research does not adequately assure safety from these radiations, particularly pointing out the potential risks from both heat effects and other bio-interactions.
  • The call for further investigation is emphasized, alongside a critique of the reassuring but potentially misleading expert assurances which might impede necessary scientific evaluation.
  • With the forthcoming global operation of 5G mmW bands, an increase in exposure to new types of radiation hazards is anticipated, especially in everyday scenarios such as carrying a mobile phone in one's pocket or using it adjacent to the head.

Conclusion

Given the challenges presented in the ICNIRP's recent guidelines and their potential inadequacies in addressing the full spectrum of 5G millimetre wave exposure risks, there is an urgent need for targeted research. This need extends to a re-evaluation of the assumptions underpinning the current RF human exposure standards to adapt to the advancing telecommunication technologies.

The paper ends with an unsettling assertion that the entire situation might be an experiment at the population level, with potentially significant health implications absent further research.

5G ICNIRP millimetre wave exposure assessment bio-effects electromagnetic fields public health
← Back to Stats