Non-Ionizing  Radiation From  Wireless Technology

Cellphones and other wireless devices emit radio frequency (RF) energy waves. RF energy is one type of non-
ionizing radiation.

   •  Government agencies set safety guidelines  that limit RF exposure from wireless devices.

   •  Scientists continue to study the effects of long-term exposure to low levels of RF.

About Non-Ionizing Radiation From Wireless Technology

Electronic devices that send information through the air are everywhere.
Between Wi-Fi, cellphones and other networks, people are in a nearly
constant cloud of wireless signals.

Cellphones and some tablets emit radio frequency (RF) energy waves. RF
energy is a type of non-ionizing radiation. In other words, it is not strong
enough to directly affect the structure of atoms or damage DMA. However,
non-ionizing radiation does cause atoms to vibrate, causing an increase in
temperature. For example, non-ionizing radiation is used in microwave
ovens to heat up food.
At very high levels, RF energy is dangerous. It can  heat the body's tissues
rapidly. However, such  high levels are found only near certain equipment,
such as powerful long-distance transmitters. Cellphones and wireless
networks produce RF, but not at levels that cause significant heating. In
addition, RF energy decreases quickly over distance. At ground level,
exposure to RF from sources like cellphone towers  is usually very low.

Some people are concerned about potential health  effects, especially on the developing brains and bodies of
children. Some studies  suggest that heavy long-term use of cellphones could  have health effects. Other
studies don't find any health effects from cellphone  use. Long-term studies on animals exposed to the RF
found in wireless networks (Wi-Fi) have, so far, found no  health effects. Scientists continue to study the effects
of long-term exposure to low levels of RF.

Rules and Guidance

U.S.  FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

In the United States, the FCC sets safety guidelines that limit RF  exposure. They license transmitters and
facilities that generate RF and microwave radiation. The FCC has adopted exposure limits for RF energy. All
hand-held wireless devices sold in the United States must comply with these limits.
With the use of cellphones and
laptops, we live surrounded by
      wireless signals.
  United States Environmental Protection Agency | Office of Radiation and Indoor Air (6608T) | EPA 402-F-14-022 | August 2014 |  p. 1

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (HHS), U.S. FOOD AND DRUG
ADMINISTRATION (FDA)

FDA works with FCC to regulate wireless medical devices. FDA can take action if wireless phones emit levels
of RF determined to be dangerous.

What you can do

Scientists continue to study the effects of long-term exposure to low levels of RF. If you are concerned, you
can take these simple steps to reduce exposure to RF radiation:

   •   Limit use - Reduce the number and length of your calls or time spent on a wireless device.

   •   Use hands-free devices - Using hands-free devices keeps mobile phones away from your head.

   •   Increase distance between the wireless device and your body.

Where to learn more

You can learn more about non-ionizing radiation from wireless technology by visiting the resources available
on the following webpage: http://www.epa.gov/radtown/wireless-technology.htmltflearn-more.
  United States Environmental Protection Agency | Office of Radiation and Indoor Air (6608T) | EPA 402-F-14-022 | August 2014 |  p. 2

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