Estimates and measurements of radiofrequency exposures in smart-connected homes

Authors: Joyner K, Milligan M, Knipe P

Year: 2024 Jul 18

Category: Bioelectromagnetics

Journal: Bioelectromagnetics

Institution: Mobile and Wireless Forum (MWF)

DOI: 10.1002/bem.22518

URL: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/bem.22518

Abstract

Overview

The aim of this research was to quantify the levels of radiofrequency electromagnetic energy (RF-EME) in a residential home or apartment equipped with various wireless devices, commonly known as internet of things (IoT) or smart devices. Additionally, the study sought to develop a tool to estimate levels of RF-EME in domestic environments.

Methods

  • Measurements were performed over 3 years in people's homes on a total of 43 devices across 16 device categories.
  • An additional 12 devices were measured in detail in a laboratory setup.
  • In total, 55 individual devices spanning 23 categories were evaluated.
  • Predictive software was developed based on these measurements.

Findings

  • The model predicts that, even with a single device from each of 23 categories operating near maximum, total exposures at a distance of 1 m would be 0.17% of the ICNIRP (2020) public exposure limits.
  • In two smart apartments measured—one with over 50 IoT devices and another with over 100 devices—the 6-min average exposure levels recorded were 0.0077% and 0.44% of the ICNIRP (2020) 30-min average public exposure limit.

Conclusion

Wi-Fi signal measurements from 55 individual IoT devices showed that 6-min average exposures ranged from 0.0077% to 0.44% of the ICNIRP (2020) 30-min average public exposure limit. The findings, corroborated in apartments with dense IoT deployments, support the predictive tool's reliability. The "RF Estimator Tool," available via the Mobile & Wireless Forum (MWF), allows users to select device types and separation distances to estimate likely RF-EME exposures. Notably, the proximity of devices in a given room primarily determines local exposures, given the inverse square law and wall attenuation. Future work aims to expand device coverage and improve modeling for neighboring units.

⚠️ Note: There is a documented link between electromagnetic field (EMF) exposures and potential health risks. Even low levels of exposure, while below international limits in this study, should always be carefully managed and monitored.

RF-EME IoT devices smart homes exposure assessment predictive software wireless technology ICNIRP limits
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