33
(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.
3. 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