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For Your Safety 132
develop — if they do — may be many years. The interpretation of epidemiological
studies is hampered by difficulties in measuring actual RF exposure during day-
to-day use of 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 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 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
device and is set well below levels known to have effects. Manufacturers of devices
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