TIG views on the NRPB document  “Advice on Limiting Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (0 – 300 GHz)”

TIG welcomes the advice recommending a move to ICNIRP standards. We strongly support the use of science- based guidelines on safe human exposure to radio-frequency (RF) energy, derived by independent expert bodies from a critical evaluation of the whole body of scientific evidence.  We believe that the formal adoption of ICNIRP-based limits in the UK can help strengthen public confidence, not only in the safety of our products and services, but also in the authorities charged with overseeing health and safety matters.

We note that the ICNIRP limits are themselves set with caution in mind, and include substantial safety margins.  We believe that a rigorous approach to compliance with such guidelines enables industry to demonstrate its commitment to product and service safety.  Members of TIG are already using ICNIRP standards.  For example, applications for base stations always include a certificate of ICNIRP compliance and all portable and mobile equipment is tested for compliance with ICNIRP.

We feel that a distinction should be drawn between health risks and public concern when formulating policies on precautionary approaches.  We believe that the evaluation of a risk should be firmly founded on full consideration of the weight of evidence and any precautionary measures should be designed to be proportionate to that risk.

The involvement of all relevant stakeholders is clearly desirable in addressing public concern and trying to reach a mutually acceptable way forward. However such a dialogue should not be used to undermine the application of science-based standards.

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