Environmental Health in Israel | 2014

 When driving, a hands-free device should be used for calls (Traffic Regulation No. 28B). It is recommended to install an antenna outside the vehicle and to use a line connection between the telephone and the speaker as opposed to using Bluetooth.  The MoH recommends not using cellphones in closed places (for example, elevators, buses, trains) due to amplified radiation in such places. In March 2012, a bill was proposed requiring all cellphones sold in Israel to bear a health- hazard warning label. The proposed bill also requires that all mobile phone advertisements bear a similar warning and bans all advertising targeting minors. The bill has yet to be approved by the Knesset. Data on Exposure to Non-Ionizing Radiation in Israel In September 2010, the MoEP developed an automatic system to conduct ongoing monitoring of radiation from antennas. An initial report on data from the monitoring system was published in 2012. In 2003, in an effort to determine levels of radiation in public places, levels of non-ionizing radiation were measured in 25 schools nation-wide. In addition, electrical facilities located within schools were tested, including electrical distribution networks (electrical panel boards, electrical cabinets, distribution lines), fluorescent lighting, wireless internet networks, and electric motors. The results revealed that exposure to non-ionizing radiation in schools is very low, with the exception of classrooms and staffrooms close to electric panel boards. Based on these findings, the MoEP recommends that students remain at a distance of at least 1.5 meters from electrical cabinets and that use of wireless communication networks in schools be reduced. Despite the fact that hybrid vehicles are liable to emit non-ionizing radiation, the MoEP has no authority under the Non-Ionizing Radiation Law to license or monitor radiation from hybrid vehicles. In 2010, an expert committee convened to evaluate EMF generated by hybrid vehicles and recommended measuring radiation levels in hybrid cars. The MoEP conducted comprehensive tests for non-ionizing radiation in various hybrid vehicles and publicized the results. Based on the findings, the MoEP concluded that hybrid cars are indeed recommended for public use – due to their low levels of radiation as well as their offering a major reduction in transport-related air pollution. Research on Health Effects of Non-Ionizing Radiation in Israel In 2006 a national center to study the public health impact of non-ionizing radiation was established. Pursuant to government decision, a scientific steering committee was formed with representatives from the Ministries of Defense, Communications, Environmental Protection, Environmental Health in Israel 2014  Chapter 10 - 70 -