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including DNA, the genetic material. Ionization only occurs with
very high levels of electromagnetic energy such as X-rays and gamma
rays. Often the term radiation is used when discussing ionizing
radiation (such as that associated with nuclear power plants).
The energy levels associated with radiofrequency energy, including
both radio waves and microwaves, are not great enough to cause the
ionization of atoms and molecules. Therefore, RF energy is a type of
non-ionizing radiation. Other types of non-ionizing radiation include
visible light, infrared radiation (heat) and other forms of
electromagnetic radiation with relatively low frequencies.
Large amounts of RF energy can heat tissue. This can damage tissues
and increase body temperatures. Two areas of the body, the eyes and
the testes, are particularly vulnerable to RF heating because there is
relatively little blood flow in them to carry away excess heat.
The amount of RF radiation routinely encountered by the general
public is too low to produce significant heating or increased body
temperature. Still, some people have questions about the possible
health effects of low levels of RF energy. It is generally agreed that
further research is needed to determine what effects actually occur
and whether they are dangerous to people. In the meantime,
standards-setting organizations and government agencies are
continuing to monitor the latest scientific findings to determine
whether changes in safety limits are needed to protect human health.
FDA, EPA and other US government agencies responsible for public
health and safety have worked together and in connection with WHO
to monitor developments and identify research needs related to RF
biological effects.
5. What levels of RF energy are considered safe?
Various organizations and countries have developed standards for
exposure to radiofrequency energy. These standards recommend
safe levels of exposure for both the general public and for workers. In
the United States, the FCC has used safety guidelines for RF
environmental exposure since 1985.
The FCC guidelines for human exposure to RF electromagnetic fields
are derived from the recommendations of two expert organizations,
the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements
(NCRP) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
(IEEE). In both cases, the recommendations were developed by
scientific and engineering experts drawn from industry, government,
Section 4: Safety Guidelines and Warranty Information
4A: Safety 123