Abstract

Overview

The ICNIRP 2020 guidelines update determined an operational threshold for temperature elevation linked to health effects from radiofrequency exposure above 6 GHz. This study evaluates how current safety guidelines align with these thresholds when considering various exposure conditions.

Methodology and Key Findings

• A numerical model assessed the temperature rise while considering different tissue layer models, beam diameters, frequencies, and exposure durations.
• Exposure scenarios, especially short pulse exposures at higher frequencies and smaller beams, demonstrated safety factors below the set thresholds, putting occupationally exposed individuals at a higher risk.
• Extreme scenarios showed tissue temperatures rising up to 3.6 times the operational threshold.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The results suggest insufficient safety factor maintenance above 6 GHz under worst-case conditions. The study recommends modifications in localized basic restrictions to limit worst-case tissue temperature increases and thus better protect against potential adverse health effects.