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FDA Consumer Update
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for
Devices and Radiological Health Consumer Update on
Mobile Phones.
1. Do wireless phones pose a health hazard?
The available scientific evidence does not show that any health
problems are associated with using wireless phones. There is no proof,
however, that wireless phones are absolutely safe. Wireless phones
emit low levels of radiofrequency energy (RF) in the microwave range
while being used. They also emit very low levels of RF when in the
stand-by mode. Whereas high levels of RF can produce health effects
(by heating tissue), exposure to low level RF that does not produce
heating effects causes no known adverse health effects. Many studies
of low level RF exposures have not found any biological effects. Some
studies have suggested that some biological effects may occur, but
such findings have not been confirmed by additional research. In some
cases, other researchers have had difficulty in reproducing those
studies, or in determining the reasons for inconsistent results.
2. What is FDA's role concerning the safety of wireless phones?
Under the law, FDA does not review the safety of radiation-emitting
consumer products such as wireless phones before they can be sold,
as it does with new drugs or medical devices. However, the agency
has authority to take action if wireless phones are shown to emit
radiofrequency energy (RF) at a level that is hazardous to the user. In
such a case, FDA could require the manufacturers of wireless phones
to notify users of the health hazard and to repair, replace or recall the
phones so that the hazard no longer exists.
Although the existing scientific data do not justify FDA regulatory
actions, FDA has urged the wireless phone industry to take a number
of steps, including the following:
• Support needed research into possible biological effects of RF of
the type emitted by wireless phones;
• Design wireless phones in a way that minimizes any RF exposure
to the user that is not necessary for device function; and
• Cooperate in providing users of wireless phones with the best
possible information on possible effects of wireless phone use on
human health.
Aircraft
FCC regulations prohibit using your phone while in the air. Switch OFF
your phone before boarding an aircraft.
Blasting Areas
To avoid interfering with blasting operations, turn your phone OFF when
in a “blasting area” or in areas posted: “Turn off two-way radio”. Obey all
signs and instructions.
Potentially Explosive Atmospheres
Turn your phone OFF when in any area with a potentially explosive
atmosphere and obey all signs and instructions. Sparks in such areas
could cause an explosion or fire resulting in bodily injury or even death.
Areas with a potentially explosive atmosphere are often, but not always
marked clearly. Potential areas may include: fueling areas (such as
gasoline stations); below deck on boats; fuel or chemical transfer or
storage facilities; vehicles using liquefied petroleum gas (such as
propane or butane); areas where the air contains chemicals or particles
(such as grain, dust, or metal powders); and any other area where you
would normally be advised to turn off your vehicle engine.
For Vehicles Equipped with an Air Bag
An air bag inflates with great force. DO NOT place objects, including
either installed or portable wireless equipment, in the area over the air
bag or in the air bag deployment area. If in-vehicle wireless equipment is
improperly installed and the air bag inflates, serious injury could result.