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WiFi: is there a real hazard?
What is WiFi?
WiFi and the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) is a system for connecting computers to a network or the internet via radio frequency (RF) transmissions (also referred to as non-ionising Electro Magnetic Field or EMF radiation), typically in the region of 2.4-2.5Ghz in frequency, but in some cases as high as 5-6 Ghz.
What is the perceived danger?
It is increasingly common for WiFi networking technology and WLAN to be employed in the workplace, exposing employees to the high frequency RF signals. There has been the suggestion in the media that signals from mobile phones and moble phone masts might be harmful to those exposed to them for long periods. The concern over the WiFi network is particularly expressed in relation to the exposure of young children from WLAN systems in schools.
Who regulates and monitors this area?
In the UK, the safety of EMF radiation such as the WiFi falls within the remit of the Health Protection Agency (HPA). It has also been the subject of scientific investigation by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP).
What are the scientific recommendations?
The ICNIRP has published reports on the dangers of EMF radiation and RF signal exposure, also establishing guidelines for exposure levels. The signal strength of a WiFi system is very low, typically only 100 milliwatts. This is well within the accepted safety limits established by the ICNIRP. Based on the research. the HPA has made certain recommendations to the UK government on the general regulation of exposure to EMF radiation. To date, none have been implemented.
Are there any proposals for legislation to cover the dangers of EMF radiation exposure?
In 2004 the European Parliament passed Directive 2004/40/EC on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (electromagnetic fields).
This follows the recommendations of the ICNIRP and requires employers to monitor the level of EMF exposure to employees. The Directive derives easy to calculate exposure levels (Action Values) above which more detailed risk assessments and precautions are required.
The directive will be implemented in UK law by 30th April 2012.
Will WiFi networks be caught by this legislation?
WiFi systems are caught by the legislation, however, the low power level of WiFi systems mean that they will not come close to passing the action value levels of exposure. The signal strength of a WiFi transmitter would require to be increased many times to cross the action value level, and even then it may be within the safe exposure limits. In fact the exposure level from a WiFi transmitter is lower than that caused by a mobile phone.
Is there a real hazard presented by WiFi networks?
The HPA concludes that there is, on current scientific understanding, no risk to health caused by WiFi systems. WiFi may perhaps even be safer than the old wired network. After all, who could trip and fall over a harmless and invisible radio wave?
Further information
For further information on the issues raised in this ezine, please contact Robert Fife, Chris Dickson, Edward Gratwick or your usual contact at Anderson Strathern.
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