Filter
Top Products
Additional safety information
105
FDA has been a leading participant in the World Health Organization International
Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) Project since its inception in 1996. An influential
result of this work has been the development of a 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.