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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 phone
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 phone 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 radiofrequency energy
exposure I can get by using my wireless phone?
All phones sold in the United States must comply with
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines
that limit radiofrequency energy (RF) 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 telephones 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 wireless
phone and is set well below levels known to have effects.
Safety Guidelines
