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02
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harmful interference be found to occur, FDA will conduct testing to assess the
interference and work to resolve the problem.
12. Where can I find additional information?
For additional information, please refer to the following resources:
•
FDA web page on wireless phones
(
http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/
RadiationEmittingProductsandProcedures/
HomeBusinessandEntertainment/CellPhones/default.htm
)
•
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) RF Safety Program
(
http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety
)
•
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection
(
http://www.icnirp.de
)
•
World Health Organization (WHO) International EMF Project
(
http://www.who.int/peh-emf/en/
)
•
National Radiological Protection Board (UK)
(
http://www.hpa.org.uk/radiation/
)
AVOID POTENTIAL HEARING LOSS
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds (including music) is the most common cause
of preventable hearing loss. Some scientific research suggests that using portable
audio devices, such as portable music players and cellular telephones, at high
volume settings for long durations may lead to permanent noise-induced hearing
loss. This includes the use of headphones (including headsets, earbuds and
Bluetooth® or other wireless devices). Exposure to very loud sound has also been
associated in some studies with tinnitus (a ringing in the ear), hypersensitivity to
sound and distorted hearing. Individual susceptibility to noise-induced hearing
loss and other potential hearing problems varies.
The amount of sound produced by a portable audio device varies depending on
the nature of the sound, the device, the device settings and the headphones. You
should follow some commonsense recommendations when using any portable
audio device:
•
Set the volume in a quiet environment and select the lowest volume at which
you can hear adequately.
•
When using headphones, turn the volume down if you cannot hear the people
speaking near you or if the person sitting next to you can hear what you are
listening to.
•
Do not turn the volume up to block out noisy surroundings. If you choose to
listen to your portable device in a noisy environment, use noise-cancelling
headphones to block out background environmental noise.
•
Limit the amount of time you listen. As the volume increases, less time is
required before your hearing could be affected.
•
Avoid using headphones after exposure to extremely loud noises, such as
concerts, that might cause temporary hearing loss. Temporary hearing loss
might cause unsafe volumes to sound normal.
•
Do not listen at any volume that causes you discomfort. If you experience ringing
in your ears, hear muffled speech or experience any temporary hearing difficulty
after listening to your portable audio device, discontinue use and consult your
doctor.
