RF Exposure Amongst Employees of Mobile Network Operators and Broadcasters

Abstract

Overview

Concerns about radiofrequency (RF) exposure in the telecommunications sector have prompted a detailed research study aimed at understanding the extent of exposure faced by employees involved in the installation and maintenance of transmitters.

Findings

• The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has labeled RF exposure as a possible carcinogen, with studies specific to occupational exposure still deemed insufficient.
• Data collected from personal monitors and broadband survey meters have been analyzed, and the study provides a set of real-time exposure data which categorizes exposure levels based on the power of antennas present at various sites (high, medium, low power, and ground-level).
• Extended exposure periods were seen particularly among riggers at broadcasting sites compared to their counterparts in mobile operations.

Conclusion

This study offers a new gateway to better epidemiological understanding of potential health risks associated with RF exposure among occupational groups, underlining the urgency of further research.