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Safety
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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
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