H
ea
lth and sa
fety
informat
ion
22
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.
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 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
• “National Telecommunications and Information
Administration
A127.book Page 22 Wednesday, June 13, 2007 6:53 PM
