Assessment of 5G RF-EMF Exposure during Large-Scale Public Events via Field Measurements

Abstract

Overview

The development of Fifth-Generation (5G) mobile networks has raised public concern regarding human exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). Key 5G features such as higher operating frequencies, broader bandwidths, beamforming, and traffic-dependent signal variability significantly influence RF-EMF exposure dynamics. Although many studies have assessed EMF levels induced by specific base stations under controlled user traffic, little empirical data are available on population-wide 5G environmental exposure across diverse scenarios.

Findings

• This study addresses the knowledge gap via field measurements during a large public festival in Valencia, Spain, and a baseline day prior to the event.
• Downlink signals from the 700 MHz and 3500 MHz 5G bands were measured across Spain's three major network operators.
• Five different locations surrounding the event venue were chosen to capture the effect of measurement location.
• Two measurement durations (6 minutes and 30 minutes) were analyzed to assess temporal dynamics.
• During the event, the power density in the 3500 MHz band increased by up to a factor of eight compared to baseline conditions.
• A 30-minute continuous measurement revealed an approximately 30% higher average power density compared to the 6-minute snapshot.
• All recorded exposure levels were significantly below international safety limits, even under high-demand conditions.

Conclusion

These findings confirm that 5G RF-EMF environmental exposure remains within accepted safety guidelines, even during large-scale public events. The results also highlight the importance of considering the location of measurements and temporal variability in assessing public EMF exposure.