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OTHER FUNCTIONS
FDA provides the scientific oversight, obtaining input from experts in government, industry,
and academic organizations. CTIA-funded research is conducted through contracts to
independent investigators. The initial research will include both laboratory studies and
studies of wireless phone users. The CRADA will also include a broad assessment of
additional research needs in the context of the latest research developments around the
world.
How can I find out how much radio frequency energy exposure I can get by using my
wireless phone?
All phones sold in the United States must comply with Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) guidelines that limit radio frequency energy (RF) exposures. FCC established these
guidelines in consultation with FDA and other federal health and safety agencies. The FCC
limit for exposure form wireless telephones is set at a Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of 1.6
watts per kilogram (1.6W/kg).
The FCC limit is consistent with the safety standards developed by the Institute of Electrical
and Electronic Engineering (IEEE) and the National Council on Radiation Protection and
Measurement. The exposure limit takes into consideration the body s ability to remove heat
from the tissue that absorb energy from the wireless phone and is set well below levels
known to have effects.
Manufacturers of wireless phones must report the RF exposure level for each model of
phone to the FCC. The FCC website
(http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety)
gives directions for
location the FCC identification number on your phone so you can find your phone s RF
exposure level in the online listing.
What has FDA done to measure the radio frequency energy coming form wireless phones?
The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) is developing a technical standard
for measuring the radio frequency energy (RF) exposure from wireless phones and other
wireless hand sets with the participation and leadership of FDA scientists and engineers. The
standard, Recommended Practice for Determining the Spatial-Peak Specific Absorption Rate
(SAR) in the Human Body Due to Wireless Communications Devices :
Experimental Techniques, sets forth the first consistent test methodology for measuring the
rate at which RF is deposited in the heads of wireless phone users. The test method uses a
tissue simulating model of the human head. Standardized SAR test methodology is expected
to greatly improve the consistency of measurements made at different laboratories on the
same phone.
SAR is the measurement of the amount of energy absorbed in tissue, either by the whole
body or a small part of the body. It is measured in watts/kg (or milliwatts/g) of matter. This
measurement is used to determine whether a wireless phone complies with safety guideline.
