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detailed agenda of research needs that has driven the establishment of
new research programs around the world. The Project has also helped
develop a series of public information documents on EMF issues.
FDA and the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association
(CTIA) have a formal Cooperative Research and Development
Agreement (CRADA) to do research on wireless phone safety. FDA
provides the scientific oversight, obtaining input from experts in
government, industry, and academic organizations. CTIA-funded
research is conducted through contracts to independent investigators. The
initial research will include both laboratory studies and studies of
wireless phone users. The CRADA will also include a broad assessment
of additional research needs in the context of the latest research
developments around the world.
7. How can I find out how much radiofrequency energy exposure I can get by using my
wireless phone?
All phones sold in the United States must comply with Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines that limit
radiofrequency energy (RF) exposures. FCC established these guidelines
in consultation with FDA and the other federal health and safety agencies.
The FCC limit for RF exposure from wireless telephones is set at a
Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of 1.6 watts per kilogram (1.6 W/kg).
The FCC limit is consistent with the safety standards developed by the
Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (IEEE) and the
National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurement. The
exposure limit takes into consideration the body’s ability to remove heat
from the tissues that absorb energy from the wireless phone and is set
well below levels known to have effects.
Manufacturers of wireless phones must report the RF exposure level for
each model of phone to the FCC. The FCC website
(http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety) gives directions for locating the FCC
identification number on your phone so you can find your phone’s RF
exposure level in the online listing.