Health Council Report 'Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (300 Hz-300 GHz). The Health Council of the Netherlands

The Health Council of the Netherlands in 1997 issued a report updating the guidelines for maximum acceptable exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields formulated in 1975. The new recommendations are based on thermal effects for frequencies over 10 MHz. The committee considers the results of studies indicating non-thermal effects such as direct damage to DNA, not reliable enough to be used in setting exposure limits. Electromagnetic interference by electromagnetic fields generated by hand-held telephones may indirectly result in threats to health if vital medical equipment is affected. The committee advises people wearing an implanted pacemaker not to carry a portable telephone that is in stand-by mode in close proximity to the pacemaker; a minimum distance of 15 cm should be observed.