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Radio Frequency (RF) Energy

Position Statement on Wi-Fi Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure

Cellphones and other wireless devices emit radio frequency (RF) energy waves. RF energy is one type of non-ionizing radiation. Government agencies have addressed the important issue of safety by setting safety guidelines that limit RF exposure from wireless devices, and they continue to study the effects of long-term exposure to low levels of RF.

Since 1996, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has required that all wireless communications devices sold in the United States meet its minimum guidelines for safe human exposure to radio frequency (RF) energy. All wireless devices sold in the US go through a formal FCC approval process to ensure that they do not exceed the maximum allowable SAR level when operating at the device’s highest possible power level.

Stony Brook University uses wireless products that comply with FCC RF exposure limits. Wireless access points are installed in accordance with manufacturer instructions to ensure that they meet safety guidelines for personnel exposure.

For more information about health concerns related to the installation and use of wireless devices, please visit the following websites:

FCC Wireless Devices and Health Concerns

EPA Non-Ionizing Radiation From Wireless Technology

OSHA Radiofrequency and Microwave Radiation