For Your Safety 136
wireless devices. Many factors affect this measurement, such as the angle at
which the device is held, or which model of device is used.
6. What is the FDA doing to find out more about the possible
health effects of wireless device RF?
The FDA is working with the U.S. National Toxicology Program and with groups
of investigators around the world to ensure that high priority animal studies
are conducted to address important questions about the effects of exposure
to Radio Frequency (RF) energy.
The FDA has been a leading participant in the World Health Organization
International Electro Magnetic 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.
The FDA and the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA)
have a formal Cooperative Research And Development Agreement (CRADA)
to do research on wireless device safety. The FDA provides the scientific
oversight, obtaining input from experts in government, industry, and academic
organizations. CTIA-funded research is conducted through contracts with
independent investigators. The initial research will include both laboratory
studies and studies of wireless device 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 Radio Frequency energy
exposure I can get by using my wireless device?
All devices sold in the United States must comply with Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines that limit Radio Frequency
(RF) energy exposures. The FCC established these guidelines in consultation
with the FDA and the other federal health and safety agencies. The FCC limit
for RF exposure from wireless devices 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 device
and is set well below levels known to have effects. Manufacturers of wireless
