For Your Safety 168
What does “SAR” mean?
In 1996, the FCC, working with the FDA, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
and other agencies, established RF exposure safety guidelines for wireless devices
in the United States. Before a wireless device model is available for sale to the
public, it must be tested by the manufacturer and certified to the FCC that it does
not exceed limits established by the FCC. One of these limits is expressed as a
Specific Absorption Rate, or “SAR.” SAR is a measure of the rate of absorption of RF
energy in the body. Tests for SAR are conducted with the device transmitting at its
highest power level in all tested frequency bands. Since 1996, the FCC has required
that the SAR of handheld wireless devices not exceed 1.6 watts per kilogram,
averaged over one gram of tissue.
Although the SAR is determined at the highest power level, the actual SAR value
of a wireless device while operating can be less than the reported SAR value. This
is because the SAR value may vary from call to call, depending on factors such as
proximity to a cell site, the proximity of the device to the body while in use, and the
use of hands-free devices. For more information about SARs, visit the FCC website
at
https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/specific-absorption-rate-sar-
cell-phones-what-it-means-you
. You may also wish to contact the manufacturer
of your device.
Can I minimize my RF exposure?
If you are concerned about RF, there are several simple steps you can take to
minimize your RF exposure. You can, of course, reduce your talk time. You can place
more distance between your body and the source of the RF, as the exposure level
drops off dramatically with distance. The FDA/FCC website states that “hands-free
kits can be used with wireless devices for convenience and comfort. These systems
reduce the absorption of RF energy in the head because the device, which is the
source of the RF emissions, will not be placed against the head. On the other hand,
if the device 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 devices 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.” Also, if you use your wireless device while in a
car, you can use a device with an antenna on the outside of the vehicle. You should
also read and follow your wireless device manufacturer’s instructions for the safe
operation of your device.
