Abstract

Overview

As wireless communication demands soar, the transition to 5G technology is set to significantly alter the patterns of electromagnetic radiation exposure. This study examines the implications of expanding 5G networks on legal and health safety standards.

Findings

• Two measurement setups were presented: one scrutinizing electromagnetic radiation from a base station, and a second measuring exposure from a mobile device to a human head in poor reception areas.
• All measured base station emissions were within legal limits. However, some mobile device emissions exceeded legal exposure limits.
• With the anticipated rise in bandwidth and frequency up to 100 GHz for 5G technology, higher transmission power by base stations and increased device densities are expected.

Conclusion

Currently, base station emissions do not exceed legal limits. Nonetheless, the forthcoming 5G standards require frequent monitoring of radiation exposure limits due to expected increases in transmission power and device density. Moreover, higher exposures were observed in mobile devices in areas of poor reception, indicating that legal limits can be surpassed, posing potential health risks.

Implementing device usage strategies such as hands-free sets can significantly lessen radiation exposure to humans, particularly in areas with poor signal strength.