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Cell Phone Industry Actions
Although the existing scientific data do not justify FDA regulatory actions, the FDA has urged the cell phone industry to take a
number of steps, including the following:
• Support-needed research on possible biological effects of RF for the type of signal emitted by cell phones;
• Design cell phones in a way that minimizes any RF exposure to the user; and
• Cooperate in providing users of cell phones with the current information on cell phone use and human health concerns.
The FDA also is working with voluntary standard-setting bodies such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
(IEEE), the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), and others to assure that safety standards
continue to adequately protect the public.
Reducing Exposure: Hands-Free Kits and Other Accessories
Steps to Reduce Exposure to Radio Frequency Energy
If there is a risk from being exposed to radio frequency energy (RF) from cell phones - and at this point we do not know that
there is - it is probably very small. But, if you are concerned about avoiding even potential risks, you can take a few simple
steps to minimize your RF exposure.
• Reduce the amount of time spent using your cell phone;
• Use speaker mode or a headset to place more distance between your head and the cell phone.
Hands-Free Kits
Hands-free kits may include audio or Bluetooth® headsets and various types of body-worn accessories such as belt-clips and
holsters. Combinations of these can be used to reduce RF energy absorption from cell phones.
Headsets can substantially reduce exposure because the phone is held away from the head in the user's hand or in approved
body-worn accessories. Cell phones marketed in the U.S. are required to meet RF exposure compliance requirements when
used against the head and against the body.
Because there are no known risks from exposure to RF emissions from cell phones, there is no reason to believe that hands-
free kits reduce risks. Hands-free kits can be used for convenience and comfort. They are also required by law in many states if
you want to use your phone while driving.
116 Health & Safety
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