initial research will include both laboratory studies
and studies of wireless phone users. The CRADA
will also include a broad assessment of additional
research needs in the context of the latest research
developments around the world.
7. How can I find out how much Radio Frequen-
cy energy exposure I can get by using my
wireless phone?
All phones sold in the United States must comply
with Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
guidelines that limit Radio Frequency (RF) energy
exposures. The FCC established these guidelines
in consultation with the FDA and the other federal
health and safety agencies. The FCC limit for RF
exposure from wireless phones is set at a Specific
Absorption Rate (SAR) of 1.6 watts per kilogram
(1.6 W/kg). The FCC limit is consistent with the
safety standards developed by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (IEEE) and
the National Council on Radiation Protection
and Measurement. The exposure limit takes into
consideration the body's ability to remove heat
from the tissues that absorb energy from the
wireless phone and is set well below levels known
to have effects. Manufacturers of wireless phones
must report the RF exposure level for each model
of phone to the FCC. The FCC website (http://www.
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