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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 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 it 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 a 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 Committee
•
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
The National Institutes of Health participates in some interagency working
group activities, as well.
FDA shares regulatory responsibilities about wireless phones with the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC). All phones that are sold in the United
States must comply with FCC safety guidelines that limit RF exposure. FCC relies
on FDA and other health agencies for safety questions about wireless phones.
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