WiMax and Health - L1
WiMAX, the Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is a telecommunications technology aimed at providing wireless data over long distances in a variety of ways
WiMAX provides an alternative internet wireless access technology to broadband cables and digital subscriber lines (or DSL). WiMAX networks enable a variety of options for broadband connections. WiMax networks are essentially a larger version of a Wi-Fi network.
WiMAX-enabled personal devices emit low levels of radio waves also known as radiofrequency electromagnetic fields when being used.
In relation to radio frequency emissions and wireless technology and health, the general conclusion from the World Health Organization (WHO) is;
“Despite extensive research, to date there is no evidence to conclude that exposure to low level electromagnetic fields is harmful to human health”
WHO - About Electromagnetic Fields – Summary of Health Effects Key Point 6
In relation to wireless networks and health, the conclusion from the WHO is;
“Considering the very low exposure levels and research results collected to date, there is no convincing scientific evidence that the weak RF signals from base stations and wireless networks cause adverse health effects.”
WHO Fact sheet 304
Confirmed as current position in WHO RF and Health Presentation – ITU Workshop on EMF Turin May 2013
WiMax and Health - L2
What is WiMax?
Are there safety limits for exposure to radio waves?
Is WiMax safe - what do the experts say?
What about children?
Do WiMax devices comply with safety limits?
Where can I obtain further information?
What is WiMax?
WiMAX stands for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access. WiMAX is a wireless metropolitan-area network standard primarily for broadband internet access.
WiMAX provides an alternative internet wireless access technology to broadband cables and digital subscriber lines (or DSL). WiMAX networks enable a variety of options for broadband connections. WiMax networks are essentially a larger version of a Wi-Fi network.
WiMax networks provide wireless connection to the internet via base stations and access points.
Are there safety limits for exposure to radio waves?
Yes. WiMAX-enabled personal devices are subject to the same standards that are applied to other radio products such as mobile phones and their base stations. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the international standards such as ICNIRP, which governments and health agencies around the world have adopted.
The standards establish exposure limits to which products must comply and include substantial margins of safety to protect consumers and the general public.
Is WiMax Safe – what do experts say?
WiMAX-enabled personal devices emit low levels of radio waves (also known as radiofrequency electromagnetic fields) when being used. The use of radio waves is a common part of a our everyday lives and provides the benefits and enjoyment of television and radio as well as an increasing range of wireless communications services.
In relation to radio frequency emissions and wireless technology and health, the general conclusion from the World Health Organization (WHO) is;
“Despite extensive research, to date there is no evidence to conclude that exposure to low level electromagnetic fields is harmful to human health”
WHO - About Electromagnetic Fields – Summary of Health Effects Key Point 6
In relation to WiMax and Health, the conclusion from the World Health Organization (WHO) is:
“Considering the very low exposure levels and research results collected to date, there is no convincing scientific evidence that the weak RF signals from base stations and wireless networks cause adverse health effects.”
WHO Fact sheet 304 - Base stations and wireless technologies
Confirmed as current position in WHO RF and Health Presentation – ITU Workshop on EMF Turin May 2013
What about children?
The health and safety of children is of concern to all of us. Devices using WiMAX technology are subject to the safety standards endorsed by the WHO and other health agencies. Those standards take the safety of everyone, including children, into account by providing substantial safety margins.
Do WiMAX enabled personal devices comply with RF exposure requirements?
WiMAX-enabled personal devices are evaluated to ensure that they conform to the RF safety limits adopted by agencies around the world. These evaluations are done in accordance with the various regulations and guidelines adopted or recommended by regulatory agencies around the world.
Where can I obtain further information?
To find more information, please visit any of the following websites:
Mobile Manufacturers Forum [ www.mmfai.org ]
WiMax and health - L3
Additional Information on WiMax
Health Authority & Educational Resources
- RF & Health - A WHO Perspective 2013 - World Health Organization
- Wireless Networks - World Health Organization
Other Resources
- WiMax & Health - WiMax Forum
- New Technologies Overview - GSMA