Limiting liability with positioning to minimize negative health effects of cellular phone towers

Abstract

Overview

The use of cellular phones has become ubiquitous across the adult global population and is now common among young children in many regions, such as Finland. This ubiquity requires widespread human exposure to radio-frequency radiation (RFR), primarily through cellular phone base stations which provide network coverage.

Findings

• As Internet usage shifts from personal computers to smartphones, the number of cellular base stations and their output is likely to increase, enhancing global human RFR exposure.
• While direct causation of adverse health effects from RFR has not yet been conclusively established, existing medical and scientific evidence raises substantial long-term liability concerns.
• The study reviews literature on the impact of the placement of cellular phone base stations and offers strategic recommendations for minimizing liability risks by reducing RFR exposure, particularly around vulnerable populations such as schools and hospitals.
• Strategies include cell splitting, deploying small cells, and adopting beam and null steering antennae technologies.

Conclusion

To avoid path dependencies that led to industries like tobacco facing severe repercussions, cellular phone companies are advised to implement measures that minimize RFR exposure and thereby reduce potential liabilities. Additional recommendations include funding large-scale epidemiological studies to precisely measure and mitigate health risks.