Environmental Health in Israel | 2014

Public and home use of electrical and electronic devices is regulated within the framework of the Non-Ionizing Radiation Law. In recent years, researchers and policy makers have raised concerns about possible health effects from exposure to EMF in the range of the power grid at frequencies of 50 hertz. In 2001, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified extremely low-frequency magnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans. The WHO recommends a maximum permissible exposure of 1,000 milligauss for acute short-term exposure and encourages application of the precautionary principle vis-à-vis continuous and long-term exposure. The MoEP publishes tables listing the levels of exposure from home electrical devices. Cellular Communication Cellular communication requires both a base station (antenna) and a telephone device. Categories of base stations are defined under the Communications Law from 1982 and the National Outline Plan 36 on Small and Miniature Broadcast Facilities from 2002. Cellular companies are responsible for choosing the location of base stations, a function subject to permit and oversight by the MoEP. In Israel, cellular broadcasts are limited to the range of non-ionizing radiation: 700–2,500 megahertz. As a rule, the taller the antenna and the more powerful its transmission, the wider the geographic range that it covers. The MoEP website includes an interactive map which shows the location of both existing and planned antennas. Manufacturers are required to measure Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) in accordance with international (US and European) guidelines and manufacturing standards for cellphone devices. The SAR index describes the amount of energy absorbed by a unit of mass of biological material under conditions of maximum transmission capacity. According to the guidelines, the devices cannot cause a local increase in body temperature of more than one degree Celsius (°C). Although the MoH lacks authority under the Non-Ionizing Radiation Law, the Ministry publishes recommendations on reducing public exposure. The MoH recommends sensible use of cellular and wireless technology, including: considering alternatives like landline telephones, use of a speaker while talking on a cellphone, and refraining from installing the base of wireless phones in a bedroom, work room, or children’s room. In addition, according to a 2002 directive from the MoH’s Medical Administration, cellphones should not be used within 30–50 centimeters of medical equipment. In general, the MoH’s recommendations are based on guidelines from international organizations:  Use a speaker or hands-free phone accessory or (non-wireless) personal earphone in order to distance the telephone from the body, reduce the amount and duration of calls, with the goal of reducing exposure.  In areas with few antennas where reception is weak, the level of radiation from the device is high and the number and duration of calls should be reduced.  Precautions should be strictly enforced with regard to children, who are more sensitive to developing cancer. - 69 - Non-Ionizing Radiation