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confirmed by additional research. In some cases,
other researchers have had difficulty in reproducing
those studies, or in determining the reasons for
inconsistent results.
What is FDA's role concerning the safety of
wireless phones?
Under the law, FDA does not review the safety of
radiation-emitting consumer products such as
wireless phones before they can be sold, as it does
with new drugs or medical devices. However, the
agency has authority to take action if wireless phones
are shown to emit radio frequency energy (RF) at a
level that is hazardous to the user. In such a case,
FDA could require the manufacturers of wireless
phones to notify users of the health hazard and to
repair, replace or recall the phones so that the hazard
no longer exists.Although the existing scientific data
do not justify FDA regulatory actions, FDA has
xl
urged the wireless phone industry to take a number
of steps, including the following:.
• Support needed research into possible biological
effects of RF of the type emitted by wireless
phones;.
• Design wireless phones in a way that minimizes
any RF exposure to the user that is not necessary
for device function; and.
• Cooperate in providing users of wireless phones
with the best possible information on possible
effects of wireless phone use on human health.
FDA belongs to an interagency working group of the
federal agencies that have responsibility for different
aspects of RF safety to ensure coordinated efforts at
the federal level. The following agencies belong to
this working group:.
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health.
• Environmental Protection Agency.
• Federal Communications Commission.
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
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