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They also emit very low levels of RF when
in the stand-by mode. Whereas high
levels of RF can produce health effects
(by heating tissue), exposure to low
level RF that does not produce heating
effects causes no known adverse health
effects. Many studies of low level RF
exposures have not found any biological
effects. Some studies have suggested that
some biological effects may occur, but
such findings have not been confirmed
by additional research. In some cases,
other researchers have had difficulty
in reproducing those studies, or in
determining the reasons for inconsistent
results.
2. 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 radiofrequency 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 is not necessary for device
function;
and
SAFETY AND
WARRANTY
FDA CONSUMER
UPDATE
FDA CONSUMER
UPDATE
SAFETY AND
WARRANTY
