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frequency energy (RF) at a level that is hazardous to the user. In such a
case, FDA could require the manufacturers of wireless phones to notify
users of the health hazard and to repair, replace or recall the phones so
that the hazard no longer exists.
Although the existing scientific data do not justify FDA regulatory actions,
FD
A has ur
ged the wireless phone 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 phones;
•
Design wireless phones in a way that minimizes any RF exposure to
the user that is not necessary for device function; and
•
Cooperate in providing users of wireless phones with the best
possible information on possible effects of wireless phone use on
human health.
FDA belongs to an interagency working group of the federal agencies that
ha
ve
responsibility for different aspects of RF safety to ensure
coordinated efforts at the federal level. The following agencies belong to
this working group:
•
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
•
Environmental Protection Agency
•
Federal Communications Commission
•
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
•
National Telecommunications and Information Administration
The National Institutes of Health participates in some interagency working
grou
p activities, as well.
FDA shares regulatory responsibilities for wireless phones with the
Feder
al Communications Commission (FCC). All phones that are sold in
the United States must comply with FCC safety guidelines that limit RF
exposure. FCC relies on FDA and other health agencies for safety
questions about wireless phones.
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