Health and Electromagnetic Fields

Network equipment, such as antennas at repeater sites and base station sites, emit radio waves in order to ensure extensive and high-quality mobile coverage. These radio waves are often described as “radiation”. But, in a health context, it is more accurate to discuss electromagnetic fields (EMF), which encircle all electronic equipment.

Whenever Telenor installs new network equipment, we ensure public health and safety by adhering strictly to the electromagnetic exposure guidelines of the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. These guidelines are endorsed by the World Health Organisation.

Radio waves or electromagnetic fields (EMFs) encircle all electronic equipment. Whenever Telenor installs new network equipment, we ensure public health and safety by adhering strictly to the electromagnetic exposure guidelines of the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. These guidelines are endorsed by the World Health Organisation.

Radio waves from mobile phones

Mobile phones transmit radio waves and create electromagnetic fields as they communicate with base stations. The specific levels depend on the distance to the base station as well as the type of mobile phone. At Telenor we are committed to engaging in dialogue with stakeholders concerned about health and electromagnetic fields. We strive to communicate in a transparent manner to anyone seeking more information about any of our installations.

Even though no harmful effects have so far been documented in research, users may take precautions to limit their exposure, such as:

• Using hands-free equipment when talking on the mobile phone
• Avoiding long calls
• Sending SMS/MMS rather than calling

Through a firewall function we provide funding and data to the research work of Karolinska Insititutet, a medical university in Sweden.