user to measurable radio frequency energy (RF) because of the short distance between the device and the user's head. These RF exposures are limited by Federal Communications Commission safety guidelines that were developed with the advice of FDA and other federal health and safety agencies.

When the device is located at greater distances from the user, the exposure to RF is drastically lower because a person's RF exposure decreases rapidly with increasing distance from the source. The so-called "cordless devices," which have a base unit connected to the telephone wiring in a house, typically operate at far lower power levels, and thus produce RF exposures well within the FCC's compliance limits.

Do wireless devices pose a health hazard?

The available scientific evidence does not show that any health problems are associated with using wireless devices. There is no proof, however, that wireless devices are absolutely safe. Wireless devices emit low levels of radio frequency energy (RF) in the microwave range while being used. They also emit very low levels of RF when in the stand-by mode. Whereas high levels of RF can produce health effects (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.

What is FDA's role concerning the safety of wireless devices?

Under the law, FDA does not review the safety of radiation- emitting consumer products such as wireless devices before they can be sold, as it does with new drugs or medical devices. However, the agency has authority to take action if wireless devices 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 devices to notify users of the health hazard and to repair, replace or recall the devices so that the hazard no longer exists.

Although the existing scientific data do not justify FDA regulatory actions, FDA has urged the wireless device 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 devices;

•Design wireless devices in a way that minimizes any RF exposure to the user that is not necessary for device function; and

Health and Safety Information

96