Ofcom publishes latest spectrum measurement results
Ofcom has published the latest results from there spectrum measurement programme. They have measured the electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions from equipment used to transmit mobile signals and other wireless services for a number of years. With all four UK mobile networks launching 5G services in the last year, they have extended their measurement programme to cover the frequencies being used for 5G.
We measured EMF emissions at 16 5G sites in 10 cities across the UK, focusing on areas where mobile use is likely to be highest. At every site, emissions were a small fraction of the levels included in international guidelines– set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). And the maximum measured at any site was approximately 1.5% of those levels.
They will continue their measurement programme, including at further 5G sites, and publish data regularly.
Proposed licence conditions
Manufacturers, installers and operators of wireless equipment should already be aware of the ICNIRP guidelines, and factor them in to how they plan their services.
To ensure this always remains the case, Ofcom are proposing new licence conditions for spectrum licensees using equipment that can transmit at power levels above 10 Watts. These proposals would mean licensees must operate within the ICNIRP guidelines as a condition of their Ofcom licence – including keeping data and records of any testing to demonstrate their compliance.
Ofcom welcome responses to this consultation by 15 May 2020.
