WiFi - Panorama Programme 21 May 2007
Naace have reported on recent concerns expressed in the press culminated in a Panorama programme focussed upon the safety issues associated with wi-fi networks, particularly in schools. The programme was broadcast on Monday 21st May, and a subsequent discussion on the Naace AC mailing list proved most informative. As one might expect, the weight of opinion expressed in the mailings came down on the 'no danger' side of the debate, and several members provided the type of information and guidance which they were offering to their schools.
Official guidance from Richard Stiff, Chair of The Association of Directors of Children's Services Information Systems and Technology Policy Committee follows, and includes a press release from Becta:
WiFi - Panorama Programme 21 May 2007
The Panorama programme about WiFi broadcast on Monday 21 May raised a number of issues about the installation and use of WiFi systems in schools and by children. This note is intended to provide some background information and guidance to DCSs in respect of this issue.
Summary
There is no evidence to date that exposure to the radio frequency (RF) signals from WiFi and WLANs adversely affect the health of the general population. In addition, HPA advice is:
- The signals from WiFi are very low power, typically 0.1 watt (100 milliwatts) in both the computer and the mast (or router) and resulting exposures should be well within internationally accepted guidelines.
- The frequencies used are broadly the same as those from 'traditional' RF applications.
- Based on current knowledge, RF exposures from WiFi are likely to be lower than those from mobile phones.
On the basis of current scientific information WiFi equipment satisfies international guidelines. There is no consistent evidence of health effects from RF exposures below guideline levels and therefore no reason why schools and others should not use WiFi equipment .
The key reference agencies in this matter are Becta and the Health Protection Agency.
"Following Monday night's (21 May 2007) Panorama programme, Becta has been in contact with the Health Protection Agency (HPA) - the government agency responsible for health and safety - to obtain the latest guidance on any health issues relating to wireless technology.
Despite the claims made in Monday night's programme, the HPAs guidance remains the same. The latest advice on their website reads:
"On the basis of current scientific information WiFi equipment satisfies international guidelines. There is no consistent evidence of health effects from RF exposures below guideline levels and therefore no reason why schools and others should not use WiFi equipment."
Based on this guidance, and expert safety advice, Becta believes that there is no need to change its current guidance: while secure wireless networks can complement an institution's wired network, they should not replace it.
Further information on WiFi safety is available on the Health Protection Agency website.
[www.hpa.org.uk/radiation/understand/radiation_topics/emf/wifi.htm]
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