RF-EMF Exposure near 5G NR Small Cells

Authors: Aerts S, Deprez K, Verloock L, Olsen RG, Martens L, Tran P, Joseph W

Year: 2023

Category: Electromagnetic Field Exposure Assessment

Journal: Sensors

DOI: 10.3390/s23063145

URL: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/23/6/3145

Abstract

Overview

This study investigates the radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields (EMFs) emitted by fifth generation (5G) small cell base stations, focusing on typical exposure levels for both workers and the general public. Measurements were carried out near two 5G New Radio (NR) base stations—one equipped with an Advanced Antenna System (AAS, capable of beamforming), and the other a traditional microcell.

Findings

  • RF-EMF exposure measurements were performed at distances ranging between 0.5 m and 100 m.
  • Both worst-case and time-averaged field levels were assessed under maximum downlink traffic load conditions.
  • Maximum exposure ratios relative to the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) limits were recorded as 0.15 (occupational, at 0.5 m) and 0.68 (general public, at 1.3 m).
  • Non-user exposure was significantly lower—5 to 30 times lower near AAS base stations, and between barely lower to 30 times lower near traditional antennas.
  • Though measured exposure levels were below ICNIRP's maximum permissible exposure (MPE) limits, actual exposures for typical users were substantially lower than for worst-case scenarios, and non-users' exposures were much lower still.

Consideration of Health Risks

The study acknowledges that “adverse health effects at non-thermal exposure levels cannot be ruled out,” which means that, despite exposures falling below ICNIRP reference levels, there is still a potential connection between RF-EMF exposure and health risks, especially for individuals in close proximity to 5G small cells.

Conclusion

Measurement values from this work can inform future health and safety analyses, as well as comparisons with other national and international reference or legislative limits. Actual RF-EMF exposures depend on a range of factors including the number of active users, antenna characteristics, and dynamic power control. The study underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and assessment of EMF exposure in 5G environments, particularly given the uncertainty regarding non-thermal health effects.

5G RF-EMF small cells exposure assessment health effects beamforming public safety
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