Highlights

8/14/03
Commission denies EMR Network Application for Review contesting decision on petition for inquiry regarding environmental effects of radiofrequency radiation.
(FCC No. 03-191): [PDF | Word ]
Commissioner Copps: [PDF | Word]

6/26/03
Proposed Changes in the Commission's Rules Regarding Human Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields.
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking: [PDF | Word | TXT]
Chairman Powell: [PDF | Word | TXT]

6/26/03
FCC proposes changes in the Commission's Rules and Procedures regarding human exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic energy.
[PDF | Word | TXT]

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Background

FCC Policy on Human Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields

The FCC is required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 to evaluate the effect of emissions from FCC-regulated transmitters on the quality of the human environment. At the present time there is no federally-mandated radio frequency (RF) exposure standard. However, several non-government organizations, such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE), and the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) have issued recommendations for human exposure to RF electromagnetic fields. The potential hazards associated with RF electromagnetic fields are discussed in OET Bulletin No. 56, "Questions and Answers About the Biological Effects and Potential Hazards of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields."

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Radiofrequency Energy FAQs (Updated)
This section contains answers to the most frequently asked questions received by the Commission concerning RF fields and its application. Also, see OET Bulletin 56.

Cellular Telephone Specific Absorption Rate (SAR)

The SAR is a value that corresponds to the relative amount of RF energy absorbed in the head of a user of a wireless handset. The FCC limit for public exposure from cellular telephones is an SAR level of 1.6 watts per kilogram (1.6 W/kg).  Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) for Wireless Phones and Devices Available at FCC Web Site.

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OET RF Safety Bulletins, Fact Sheets, Guides and Reports

OET Bulletin No. 56: Questions and Answers About Biological Effects Potential Hazards of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields (Fourth Edition, August 1999)

This is an informative bulletin written as a result of increasing interest and concern of the public with respect to this issue. The expanding use of radio frequency technology has resulted in speculation concerning the alleged "electromagnetic pollution" of the environment and the potential dangers of exposure to non-ionizing radiation. This publication is designed to provide factual information to the public by answering some of the most commonly asked questions.

OET Bulletin No. 65: Evaluating Compliance With FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields

This technical bulletin was issued to provide guidance in the implementation of the Commission's new exposure limits and policies. The bulletin provides acceptable methods of determining compliance Commission limits through the use of mathematical and empirical models.

• Supplement A: Additional Information for Radio and Television Broadcast Stations
• Supplement B: Additional Information for Amateur Radio Stations
• Supplement C: Additional Information for Evaluating Compliance of Mobile and Portable Devices with FCC Limits for Human Exposure to Radiofrequency Emissions

Information on Human Exposure to Radiofrequency Fields from Cellular and PCS Radio Transmitters
This page explains technical information on cellular and PCS base stations, mobile, and portable telephones. (Adobe PDF | WordPerfect 5.1)

A Local Government Official's Guide to Transmitting Antenna RF Emission Safety: Rules, Procedures, and Practical Guidance. The LSGAC and the FCC have developed this guide to aid local governmental officials and citizens in understanding safety issues related to radiofrequency emissions from telecommunications towers. [Word97 | Acrobat | News Release]

Software

FM Model for Windows Software Program
FM Model, a program created by Commission staff, is based on a model originally developed by the EPA, to predict ground-level RF power density in the vicinity of towers supporting FM radio broadcast antennas. This model has been found to be very useful for most applications when it is desired to predict RF field levels on the ground near simple FM radio installations. If you have any questions about this program please contact the RF Safety Program.