Risks of Mobile phone safety

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The radio waves that are received and sent by mobile phones transmit in all directions, in order to find the nearest appropriate base station. This means that some of the radio waves will be directed at the head of the person using the phone. These waves are absorbed into the body tissue as energy, which can eventually cause a very small rise in temperature in the head.

This effect is measured using specific absorption rates (SAR), which is a measure of the amount of energy, absorbed by the body. The units of measurement are watts per kilogram (W/kg) or milli watts per gram (mW/g). The higher the SAR, the more energy your body is absorbing and the higher the rise in temperature.

Present research shows that the radio waves from mobile phones are sufficient to cause a rise in temperature of up to 0.1oc. This does not pose a known risk to health. Some mobile phones have better specific absorption rates (SARs) than others; you can find this information from your mobile phone manufacturer or retailer.

Children are thought to be at higher risk of health implications from the use of mobile phones. This is because their skulls and cells are still growing and tend to absorb radiation more easily.

There is no clear evidence that people living or working near base stations are at risk from the radiation. However, base stations must always receive planning permission before they are erected and schools should regularly monitor the emissions of base stations situated inside or very close to school grounds.

Around 80% of drivers have or regularly use a mobile phone. Surveys (2) suggest that mobile phones are a bigger distraction to drivers than eating, drinking and using an in-car stereo. Drivers who talk on their mobile phones are four times more likely to have an accident.

In a new regulation that came into force on 1 December 2003, it is a specific offence to use a hand-held phone, or similar device, when driving. The penalty is a Â£30 fixed penalty or up to Â£1,000 on conviction in court (Â£2,500 for drivers of goods vehicles, buses or coaches). Drivers still risk prosecution (for failure to have proper control) if they use hands-free phones when driving.