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Appendix C: Consumer update on wireless phones
171
was strictly precautionary; it was not based on scientific
evidence that any health hazard exists.
7. Do hands-free kits for wireless phones reduce risks from
exposure to RF emissions?
Since there are no known risks from exposure to RF emissions
from wireless phones, there is no reason to believe that hands-
free kits reduce risks. Hands-free kits can be used with wireless
phones for convenience and comfort. These systems reduce the
absorption of RF energy in the head because the phone, which
is the source of the RF emissions, will not be placed against the
head. On the other hand, if the phone is mounted against the
waist or other part of the body during use, then that part of the
body will absorb more RF energy. Wireless phones marketed in
the U.S. are required to meet safety requirements regardless of
whether they are used against the head or against the body.
Either configuration should result in compliance with the safety
limit.
8. Do wireless phone accessories that claim to shield the head from
RF radiation work?
Since there are no known risks from exposure to RF emissions
from wireless phones, there is no reason to believe that
accessories that claim to shield the head from those emissions
reduce risks. Some products that claim to shield the user from
RF absorption use special phone cases, while others involve
nothing more than a metallic accessory attached to the phone.
Studies have shown that these products generally do not work
as advertised. Unlike “hand-free” kits, these so-called “shields”
may interfere with proper operation of the phone. The phone
may be forced to boost its power to compensate, leading to an
increase in RF absorption. In February 2002, the Federal trade
Commission (FTC) charged two companies that sold devices
that claimed to protect wireless phone users from radiation with
making false and unsubstantiated claims. According to FTC,
these defendants lacked a reasonable basis to substantiate
their claim.
9. What about wireless phone interference with medical equipment?