The UK regulator, Ofcom, has carried out the UK’s first safety tests on 5G base stations and has found no identifiable risks since 5G technology was deployed and that radiation levels are at ‘tiny fractions’ of safe limits.
5G safety testing
Ofcom has measured the electromagnetic field emissions from equipment used to transmit mobile signals and other wireless services for a number of years and has now extended this measurement programme to cover the frequencies being used for 5G.
Measuring 16 5G sites in 10 towns and cities across the UK, the regulator focused on areas where mobile use is likely to be highest. At every site, Ofcom found emissions were a small fraction of the levels included in international guidelines, as set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. Non-ionizing refers to the type that doesn’t damage DNA and cells. The maximum measured at any site was 1.5% of those levels.
Public Health England’s view
The roll-out of 5G internet has sparked 5G concern about 5G dangers amongst some people, who believe the new transmission masts could be dangerous to humans.
In the UK, Public Health England lead on health matters related to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, or radio waves and one of its duties is to advise the Government on any health effects that may be caused by EMF emissions. Public Health England’s view on 5G is that ‘the overall exposure is expected to remain low relative to guidelines and, as such, there should be no consequences for public health’.
Members of the public who remained worried about 5G, despite Public Health England’s view, should now feel reassured the 5G technology is entirely safe, thanks to Ofcom’s new test findings.
Read our comprehensive guide ‘5G dangers: discover the fact and the fiction’ here.
