5G, the Internet of Things (IoT) and
Wearable Devices
What do the new uses of wireless technologies
mean for radio frequency exposure?
September 2023
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5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Contents
Contents | 1
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
1. CONTEXT 2
2. GENERAL QUESTIONS 4
3. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS RELATED TO 5G 14
4. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS RELATED TO INTERNET OF THINGS (IOT) 24
5. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS RELATED TO WEARABLE DEVICES 28
RESOURCES FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ABBREVIATIONS 32
Context
1
2 | Context
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Increased mobile connectivity will transform society,
enabling changes in the way we live and do business,
through new applications of wireless technology
such as Fifth Generation (5G) mobile technology;
the Internet of Things (IoT), also known as machine-
to-machine (M2M) communications; and wearable
devices. The GSMA has produced this publication
to address questions related to exposure to radio
frequency (RF) signals used by these networks and
devices.
Wireless networks and devices exchange information
(eg, voice or data) via RF signals – a form of
electromagnetic energy, also called electromagnetic
fields (EMFs). RF signals are part of everyday life,
emitted both by natural sources like the sun and
the Earth, and by artificial sources such as: wireless
networks, TV and broadcast radio.
New applications, such as 5G, wireless IoT and
wearable devices, are designed to comply with
existing exposure limits. The international exposure
guidelines have been developed as a result of the work
of researchers for many decades. The guidelines are
not technology specific and are periodically reviewed.
The consensus of reviews by independent public
health authorities, expert groups and the World Health
Organization (WHO) is that these guidelines provide
protection for all people (including children) against all
established health hazards.
This booklet starts with answers to general questions
and then follows with sections specific to 5G, IoT and
wearable devices. Resources for further information
and a table of abbreviations are included at the end.
Context | 3
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
4 | General questions
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
General questions
2
General questions | 5
Are new exposure limits needed for these new
applications of wireless technologies?
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
No, current international guidelines are also applicable
to the new wireless applications. International exposure
guidelines have been developed by the International
Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection
(ICNIRP)
1
. ICNIRP is an independent non-governmental
organization formally recognised by WHO.
The ICNIRP RF signal exposure guidelines were
developed following reviews of all the peer-reviewed
scientific literature, including thermal and non-thermal
eects. The guidelines are based on evaluations of
biological eects that have been established to have
health consequences. The WHO
2
recommends that
countries adopt the ICNIRP guidelines.
The available evidence has been reviewed by many
independent expert groups. The GSMA website
contains a comprehensive tabulation of such reports
dating back to 1978.
Public health agencies and expert groups consistently
conclude that the guidelines protect all persons
(including children) against all established health risks.
The ICNIRP 1998 guidelines cover all radio frequencies
up to 300 GHz. They form the basis of regulatory limits
for mobile network antennas and devices in most parts
of the world.
In March 2020, ICNIRP published updated guidelines
covering all the frequencies used for mobile
communications, including for 5G. ICNIRP concluded
that the 1998 limits provide protection for all mobile
technologies, including 5G. The 2020 guidelines
introduce better and more detailed guidance, in
particular, for frequencies above 6 GHz.
The ICNIRP strongly recommends that countries
update to the ICNIRP 2020 guidelines.
1. http://www.icnirp.org/
2. https://www.who.int/teams/environment-climate-change-and-health/radiation-and-health/protection-norms
3. https://www.icnirp.org/en/applications/5g/index.html
The main conclusion from the WHO reviews is that EMF exposures below the limits
recommended in the ICNIRP international guidelines do not appear to have any known
consequence on health.
World Health Organization: EMF Standards and Guidelines
2
The ICNIRP RF EMF guidelines have taken the above considerations into account and
protect against all potential adverse health eects relating to exposure to RF EMFs from 5G
technologies. This includes potential dierences in the eect of RF EMFs as a function of
age, health status, and depth of penetration, the eect of both acute and chronic exposures,
and it includes all substantiated eects regardless of mechanism.
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP)
3
6 | General questions
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
4. WHO, Framework for developing health-based EMF standards, 2006. Available at https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9241594330
5. The impact of RF-EMF exposure limits stricter than the ICNIRP or IEEE guidelines on 4G and 5G mobile network deployment. ITU-T K.Supplement 14. September 2019. (The IEEE guidelines are similar to those of ICNIRP).
What is the scientific basis for the international
exposure guidelines?
Why is it necessary to harmonise RF-EMF
exposure limits?
The international exposure guidelines protect the
public from all established health eects of exposure
to radio waves. They are independent of the
technology or the signal used. They apply to mobile
communications devices and network antennas,
whatever the technology used (2G, 3G, 4G and 5G)
and radio and television, including Digital Terrestrial
Television (DTT), as well as all sources of radio waves
such as Wi-Fi.
The limits vary with frequency as the amount of energy
absorbed by the body depends on the frequency. The
limits ensure that the RF-EMF energy absorbed by the
human body complies with an overall limit.
The WHO
4
strongly promotes the use of international
standards that provide the same or similar level of
health protection for all people and endorses the
guidelines of the ICNIRP.
The WHO notes that large disparities between national
limits and international guidelines can foster confusion
for regulators and policy makers, increase public
anxiety and provide a challenge to manufacturers and
operators of communications systems who need to
tailor their products to each market.
The international guidelines include substantial
reduction factors so that the allowable limits
are much lower than the level where the first
scientifically-established adverse health eects
occur. They are recommended by the WHO, the
Council of the European Union and the International
Telecommunications Union (ITU).
The consensus among public agencies in charge of
assessing scientific knowledge is that these limits are
protective and they do not recommend adopting any
other limits.
ICNIRP concludes that ‘there is no evidence that
additional precautionary measures will result in a
benefit to the health of the population.’
Restrictive limits do not lead to lower exposures in
public areas. They make mobile network deployment
less ecient, make co-location of antennas dicult and
increase the number of antenna sites that are required.
EMF exposure limits that are more strict than the ICNIRP or IEEE guidelines negatively
aect all potential levers to enhance the wireless infrastructure and deployment of
5G: spectrum, technology (determining the spectral eciency) and network topology
(number of sites and sectors).
International Telecommunications Union
5
Figure 1
The radio signal exposure characteristics of the new
wireless applications are similar to those of existing
mobile technologies. In particular, the new applications
use similar transmission powers and operate in similar
frequency ranges. A European Commission expert
committee
6
has concluded that current knowledge
about how EMF interacts with the human body can be
used to set exposure limits for the whole frequency
range up to 300 GHz. Therefore, existing health risk
assessments are valid independently of the wireless
technology for the whole frequency range.
Growing body of research publications related to
electromagnetic fields and health.
1995 2000 2005 2010 2015
24
5,040
196
7,832
617
11,367
1,430
15,693
2,298
20,630
2020
3,665
28,481
2021
3,984
29,977
2022
4,395
31,774
Data from www.emf-portal.org (status December 2022). Smaller number refers to ‘mobile communications’ studies, larger number
to ‘all frequency ranges’. Figure used with permission of the Mobile & Wireless Forum.
OVER
4,300 STUDIES
SPECIFIC TO MOBILE
COMMUNICATIONS
As can be seen in Figure 1 there is a significant and ever growing body of research publications related to EMFs
and health. The vertical bars show the total number of publications for all frequency ranges. The number of studies
specific to mobile communication frequencies is given by the smaller number near the year axis. Information on
new research and details of individual studies can be found in the EMF-Portal web database maintained by the
RWTH Aachen University, Germany: https://www.emf-portal.org/en
What kind of research exists regarding the possible
health risks of exposure from these new wireless
technologies and applications?
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
General questions |
7
6. Final opinion on potential health eects of exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF), Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR), adopted on 27 January 2015.SCENIHR explains that at
the frequencies used for mobile services, RF energy absorption and subsequent tissue heating is the major mechanism.
No single scientific study is definitive and each one
should be considered on its own strengths and
weaknesses and in the context of the total body of
knowledge. There have been many expert reviews
7
of the available research on radio signals and health.
Scientific research is subject to potential errors,
technical biases and uncertainties. When weighing the
evidence for potential health eects, scientists consider
dierent aspects before drawing their conclusions.
The main conclusion from World Health Organization
reviews is that EMF exposures below international
guidelines have no known health consequences.
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
8 | General questions
How is new EMF research evaluated?
7. https://www.gsma.com/publicpolicy/emf-and-health/expert-reports
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
There may be a small localised increase when 5G is
added to an existing site or when coverage is provided
in a new area. Advances in base station design and
new mobile communication technologies provide
higher capacity with greater eciency. All mobile
technologies, including 5G, are designed to minimise
power to reduce system interference. In summary, with
the addition of 5G transmitters, the total exposure
to radio waves will remain very low relative to the
international exposure limits.
Based on measurements of existing wireless
technologies it is expected that there will be
no significant increase in overall exposure. As is
evidenced in Figure 2, data from 47 measurement
studies conducted in sixteen European countries
between 2002 and 2017 shows no notable increase in
personal exposure to radio signals. Another important
observation is that there were no distinct dierences
between measured levels in countries with restrictive
limits and those countries with the international limits.
Does the growing use of wireless mean that
exposure is continuing to increase and, therefore,
we are at more risk?
Figure 2
No obvious increase in radio wave levels
GROUP
2B
GROUP
3
GROUP
2A
GROUP
1
Higher level of certainty
The IARC Monographs classification indicates the level of certainty that
an agent can cause cancer (hazard identification).
Lower level of certainty
8. Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Field Exposure in Everyday Microenvironments in Europe: A Systematic Literature Review. Sagar et al., Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology.
28(2):147–60. March 2018 (http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/jes.2017.13) Public Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields in Everyday Microenvironments: An Updated Systematic Review for Europe.
Jalilian et al., Environmental Research. 176:108517. September 2019. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2019.05.048)
International Limits
Restrictive Limits
Not included
Data from 47 measurement studies
8
Measurements in sixteen countries:
Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Italy, Spain, Poland, the Netherlands, Serbia,
Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom
Measurements made 2002 to 2017
There was no indication of distinct dierences between
countries, exposure levels were similar with the
international or restrictive limits.
General questions | 9
Personal measurement with volunteers studies do not indicate a notable increase
in personal RF-EMF exposure, as mean levels are comparable to those reported in a
previous review.
10 | General questions
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Several studies have shown that the exposure levels
from mobile networks have remained relatively
constant over many years (with small annual variation),
across dierent countries and continents and across
dierent technologies. Similar trends have been found
in data for countries in Europe, North America and
Africa. Even where there is evidence of an increase in
some local areas due to improved wireless coverage,
the overall levels remain a fraction of the international
guidelines.
Analysis
9
of measurements conducted over 10 years
in more than 25 countries across the world shows
that the mean level of environmental RF signals from
mobile communications systems are typically less than
In May 2011 a working group of the International
Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified RF
electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to
humans (Group 2B), see Figure 3. The WHO explains
that this is a category used when a causal association
is considered credible, but when chance, bias or
confounding cannot be ruled out with reasonable
confidence.
RF signals are classified in the same IARC group as
eating pickled vegetables (i.e. that there was limited
evidence that they could cause cancer in humans).
Eating processed meat falls in a higher classification
than radio signals (i.e. there is stronger evidence that
they might cause cancer in humans).
0.1 μW/cm
2
(microwatts per centimetre squared
10
). For
comparison the recommended international limit for
the public at the widely used mobile communications
frequency of 900 MHz is 450 µW/cm
2
. Therefore,
typical exposures are many thousands of times below
the exposure limit for the public.
Many of the new wireless applications in the areas of
IoT and wearable devices operate at very low powers
and often transmit only intermittently.
Note also that for all wireless technologies, the
exposure from antennas decreases rapidly with
distance.
It is important to note that following the classification,
the WHO has not recommended any changes to
the exposure limits applicable to wireless networks
and devices. Further research has been identified to
address the uncertainties.
The IARC classification was based on limited evidence
related to wireless devices used close to the head.
There is uncertainty as to how to interpret the available
data. In regard to environmental sources (such as
mobile network base stations, broadcast antennas,
Wi-Fi networks) and the exposure of RF workers, the
evidence was judged to be inadequate.
The WHO is conducting an overall risk assessment of all
health outcomes related to RF exposure.
I’ve heard that RF signals were classified as a
possible human carcinogen, what does this mean?
9. Comparative International Analysis of Radiofrequency Exposure Surveys of Mobile Communication Radio Base Stations, Rowley et al., Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology, 22(3):304–315, May/
June 2012 (http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/jes.2012.13)
10. This is a unit for measurements of RF exposure in terms of power density.
General questions | 11
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
The position of the WHO
11
in regard to health eects from mobile phones is that:
In respect of long-term eects WHO says:
11. Electromagnetic fields and public health: mobile phones, WHO Fact sheet N°193, October 2014.
What is the advice from the World Health
Organization on mobile phones and health?
A large number of studies have been performed over the last two decades to assess
whether mobile phones pose a potential health risk. To date, no adverse health eects have
been established as being caused by mobile phone use.
While an increased risk of brain tumors is not established, the increasing use of mobile
phones and the lack of data for mobile phone use over time periods longer than 15 years
warrant further research of mobile phone use and brain cancer risk. In particular, with the
recent popularity of mobile phone use among younger people, and therefore a potentially
longer lifetime of exposure, WHO has promoted further research on this group. Several
studies investigating potential health eects in children and adolescents are underway.
Figure 3
Understanding the IARC Monographs classification of
radiofrequency fields
GROUP
2B
GROUP
3
GROUP
2A
GROUP
1
Higher level of certainty
The IARC Monographs classification indicates the level of certainty that
an agent can cause cancer (hazard identification).
Lower level of certainty
12 | General questions
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
There have been many independent scientific
reviews and these have consistently concluded that
the international guidelines are protective of all
persons, including children. There are currently few
National authorities in some countries recommend
voluntary precautionary restrictions on phone and
Wi-Fi use by younger children due to concern about
possible greater vulnerability and to limit longer
I’ve heard that children could be at greater risk so
how can they be protected if there are RF signals
everywhere?
12. https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/cell-phones/children-and-cell-phones
13. Health Eects from Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields – RCE 20, Advisory Group on Non-ionising Radiation (AGNIR), Health Protection Agency, April 2012.
14. Health Council of the Netherlands. Influence of radiofrequency telecommunication signals on children’s brains. The Hague: Health Council of the Netherlands, 2011; publication no. 2011/20E
Current scientific evidence does not show a danger to any users of cell phones from radio
frequency (RF) energy, including children and teenagers.
United States Food and Drug Administration
12
Although a substantial amount of research has been conducted in this area, there is no
convincing evidence that RF field exposure below guideline levels causes eects in adults
or children.
United Kingdom Health Protection Agency
13
There is no scientific evidence for a negative influence of exposure to electromagnetic field
of mobile telephones, base station antennas or Wi-Fi equipment on the development and
functioning of the brain and on health in children.
Health Council of the Netherlands
14
studies specific to children and this topic remains
an active research area. The international exposure
guidelines have been developed based on conservative
assumptions to be protective of all persons.
lifetime exposures if there is an unrecognised health
risk. WHO has concluded that current scientific
evidence does not justify specific measures for groups
such as children and pregnant women.
General questions | 13
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Mobile phones are designed to automatically reduce
power to the lowest possible level to make a quality
connection. When used in areas of good reception a
mobile phone will operate at lower transmit power. For
those who are concerned, exposure to radio signals
can be reduced by limiting use of wireless devices or
increasing the distance between the device and the
body.
No. The RF signal level from wireless networks and devices is already low and typically a lot less than the limit
values. WHO
15
warns: “The use of commercial devices for reducing radiofrequency field exposure has not been
shown to be eective. “
In 2015 the DGCCRF
17
(the French General Directorate
for Competition Policy, Consumer Aairs and Fraud
Control) investigated the sale of “shielding” devices
for mobile phones. They concluded that the selling of
these devices is often supported by multiple allegations
that need to be verified. In most cases, vendors
presented studies on biological and physiological
domains that are not ocially recognized. In 2021,
15. Electromagnetic fields and public health: mobile phones, WHO Fact sheet N°193, October 2014.
16. https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/cell-phones/reducing-exposure-hands-free-kits-and-other-accessories
17. http://www.economie.gouv.fr/dgccrf/enquete-sur-dispositifs-anti-ondes-pour-telephone-mobile
18. https://english.autoriteitnvs.nl/latest/news/2021/12/16/do-you-have-a-quantumpendant-anti-5g-pendant-or-a-negative-ion-jewellery-item-or-sleep-mask-if-so-store-it-away-safely
19. https://www.arpansa.gov.au/understanding-radiation/radiation-sources/more-radiationsources/reducing-exposure-to-mobile-phones#protective
I’m still concerned, what can I do to reduce
my exposure?
Should I buy a shielding device to protect my home
and my family from these signals?
BETTER CONNECTION, LOWER TRANSMIT
POWER, LONGER TALK TIME
Manufacturers of certain cell phone accessories may claim that an accessory shields the
user from emissions or prevents health problems caused by radio frequency radiation. The
FDA does not regulate such products and, given the weight of scientific evidence to show
that cell phones are safe for use, the Agency considers these claims to be bogus.
United States Food and Drug Administration
16
consumers in the Netherlands
18
were warned against
using an anti-5G ‘negative ion’ pendant that emitted
ionizing radiation.
The Australian government agency ARPANSA
19
‘does
not recommend the use of any protective devices other
than approved hands-free accessories that let you keep
the phone away from the head during use.’
As well as the prospect of being much faster than
existing technologies, 5G holds the promise of
applications with high social and economic value,
leading to an increasingly connected society in which
mobile will play an ever more important role in people’s
lives.
As shown in Figure 4, two of the key technical
characteristics are the speed of data transmission (the
throughput) and the time taken for the data to be
transmitted across the network (the delay – also termed
latency). Many applications can be supported on existing
4G networks but some will require 5G.
The key requirements for 5G are shown in Figure 5.
These requirements include higher data rates and higher
capacity with shorter latency as well as reductions in
energy use and greater system eciency.
14
| Questions and answers related to 5G
Questions and
answers related to 5G
3
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Introduction to 5G
Questions and answers related to 5G | 15
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Figure 4
Figure 5
5G supported services matrix
5G Requirements
<1Mbps
–
–
+
+
1Mbps 10Mbps 100Mbps
1000ms
100ms
10ms
1ms
>1GB
Bandwidth
Throughput
Services
deliverable by 4G
and evolved 4G
Services requiring
5G capabilities
Person to person
Person to machine
Machine to machine
Delay
Disaster alert
Automotive
ecall
Real time
gaming
Multi-person
video call
Tactile
internet
Virtual
reality
Autonomous driving
Augmented
reality
First responder
connectivity
Video streaming
Personal cloud
Wireless cloud
Bi-directional
remote
controlling
Device
remote
controlling
Monitoring sensor
networks
BOUNDLESS
CONNECTIVITY FOR ALL
NETWORK ECONOMICS
& INNOVATION
ENHANCED
BROADBAND
MASSIVE IOT & CRITICAL
COMMUNICATIONS
VERTICAL / INDUSTRIAL
TRANSFORMATION
VOICE ORIENTED
5G ERA
GOALS
5G
REQUIREMENTS
1 ms
LATENCY
1,000X
MORE
CAPACITY
10-100X
CONNECTED
DEVICES
PERCEPTION
OF 99.999%
AVAILABILITY
PERCEPTION
OF 100%
COVERAGE
1G
2G
2G
3G
3G
DATA ORIENTED
4G 5G
90%
REDUCTION IN
ENERGY USE
10 YEAR
BATTERY FOR
SENSORS
10-100X
DATA RATES
16 | Questions and answers related to 5G
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Figure 6
Key milestones for the mobile industry to 2030 (Source: GSMA Intelligence)
While 5G oers superior performance over 4G, both
will coexist into the 2030s as the bedrock of next
generation mobile networks. 5G networks will utilise
and integrate a mixture of spectrum and access
networks to meet customers’ capacity and coverage
needs.
As shown in Figure 6, there is significant momentum
around 5G, with 5 billion connections forecast by
2030, more than 50% of global connections..
As the latest and most capable mobile network, 5G
will underpin the growth of the digital economy in
many countries. This explains a lot of the government-
backed activities around the world that seek to
influence or accelerate the pace of 5G deployment and
commercialisation.
5G
2G
4G
3G
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
15%
5%
59%
20%
1.5 billion 5G
connections
5 billion mobile
internet users
8 billion smartphone
connections
5G adoption
overtakes 4G
8.5 billion mobile
connections
60% mobile internet
penetration
6 billion unique
mobile subscribers
9.5 billion mobile
connections
60% 4G adoption
9 billion mobile
connections
4G adoption falls
below 50%
90% smartphone
adoption
70% mobile
penetration
3 billion 5G
connections
4 billion 5G
connections
5 billion 5G
connections
20% 5G adoption 30% 5G adoption
3G adoption falls
below 1
0%
5G adoption
surpasses
50%
7 billion smartphone
connections
7.5 billion
smartphone
connections
40% 5G adoption
4G adoption
falls below
40%
2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 20302023
Questions and answers related to 5G | 17
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
No, higher frequency does not mean higher exposure. Higher frequencies generally mean shorter ranges and due
to the increase of the available bandwidth provides for the possibility of higher data rates. Current experiments
and future deployment will use frequencies already covered by existing exposure standards.
I have heard talk of higher frequencies being used,
does that mean higher exposure?
Figure 7
5G needs spectrum within three key frequency ranges
Coverage and capacity
Macrocell coverage
Existing mobile services
Small cells Dense small cells
TV Wi-Fi Wi-Fi Satellite and fixed links
Capacity
Below 1 GHz
Frequency
ranges
Existing radio
services
Mobile network
coverage
1 – 6 GHz 6 GHz – 86 GHz
As can be seen in Figure 7, 5G needs spectrum within
three key frequency ranges to deliver widespread
coverage and support all the planned services. The
three ranges are: Sub-1 GHz, 1-6 GHz and above 6 GHz.
– Sub-1 GHz will support widespread coverage across
urban, suburban and rural areas and help support
IoT services through better in-building coverage.
– 1-6 GHz oers a good mixture of coverage and
capacity benefits. This includes spectrum within the
3.3-3.8 GHz range which is expected to form the
basis of many initial 5G services.
– Above 6 GHz is needed to meet the ultra-high
broadband speeds planned for 5G. A focus will be
on bands above 24 GHz (28 GHz has been identified
for 5G in the USA).
Some of the potential bands for 5G are at similar
frequencies to mobile technologies already in use.
The 3G and 4G mobile technologies of today typically
operate in several bands between 700 MHz and 2.7 GHz.
Wi-Fi operates at 2.45 and 5 GHz. This also means that
many existing antennas sites can be reused for 5G.
Higher frequencies, such as 24-86 GHz, are mostly
used today by the mobile and satellite industries
for other purposes. These high frequencies are also
known as millimetre-waves (mmW or mmWaves). The
millimetre-wave frequencies will be used for capacity in
conjunction with increased small cell deployments.
At these frequencies RF energy is absorbed
superficially by the body, mostly by the skin (to a
depth of only 1 to 10 mm). Biological eects of these
frequencies have been studied previously and new
studies are underway using millimetre wave exposures.
18 | Questions and answers related to 5G
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Assessments of 5G networks show exposure levels
that are similar to existing mobile services. The typical
maximum measured 5G EMF level across the surveys is
less than 1% of the international public limits.
One of the goals of 5G deployments is to provide much
higher data rates. This is needed to meet the high
expectations and demands customers place on mobile
communication applications and services both in their
professional and private life.
Private 5G networks are possible, using network slicing
or spectrum licensing. These are covered by the same
RF-EMF limits as public 5G networks.
Does higher data rates mean higher network exposures?
With the introduction of new technologies, there
may be a small increase in the level of radio signals
due to the fact that new transmitters are active. In
some countries deployment of 5G may occur as part
of closure of earlier wireless networks. Based on
the transition from previous wireless technologies
we can expect that the overall exposure levels will
remain relatively constant and a small fraction of the
international exposure guidelines.
For more information on assessments of 5G EMF levels
see www.gsma.com/emf
The use of mmWave frequencies for 5G will comply
with the international exposure guidelines and typical
levels will be similar to existing mobile services.
For additional information see the GSMA publication
5G millimetre wave safety.
20
This meta-analysis of the experimental studies also presented little evidence of an
association between millimetre waves and adverse health eects. Studies that did report
biological eects were generally not independently replicated and most of the studies
reviewed employed low-quality methods of exposure assessment and control.
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency
21
As the frequency increases, there is less penetration into the body tissues and absorption of
the energy becomes more confined to the surface of the body (skin and eye). Provided that
the overall exposure remains below international guidelines, no consequences for public
health are anticipated.
The World Health Organization
22
20. https://www.gsma.com/publicpolicy/resources/emf-safety-and-5g-mmwave-networks
21. https://www.arpansa.gov.au/news/world-first-reviews-5g-radio-waves
22. www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/5g-mobile-networks-and-health
Questions and answers related to 5G | 19
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
The GSMA generally supports the removal of
technology restrictions to enable new mobile
technologies to be deployed within the same frequency
bands as existing technologies. Where governments
allow flexibility in the choice of technology, network
operators may deploy 5G in the frequencies currently
Many initial 5G deployments will be at frequencies
similar to existing 3G/4G mobile networks and so
the same mobile device compliance measure – the
specific absorption rate (SAR) – and limit value will
also apply to 5G devices. For 5G devices operating in
frequency bands higher than those used by current
mobile phones, new test procedures were developed
by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
Technical Committee 106.
used to provide mobile services. In some cases this
may be a replacement for existing mobile technologies
and in other cases it will be an additional radio
technology. If a new license, with additional fees, is
required before 5G based services can be provided this
may delay rollout.
Are testing standards in place for 5G devices
and networks?
Figure 8
Percentage of connections (excluding licensed cellular IoT)
(Source: GSMA Intelligence)
2022
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030
2G
1%
3G
8%
4G
36%
5G
54%
As consumers expect to be able to use their mobile
devices virtually everywhere, initially 5G is likely to be
deployed in parallel with existing mobile technologies.
Early 5G deployments will be in locations where it
is needed to supplement the capacity of current
Will 5G replace the earlier mobile network technologies?
networks. Further rollouts will occur as demand
dictates. We can see how this has happened with 4G
deployments in Figure 8. This also means continuity
of service for customers who can continue to use their
devices on existing networks.
20 | Questions and answers related to 5G
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Figure 9
Representation of heterogeneous mobile network (“hetnet”)
In-building and street small cells Home small cells
Macrocells for wide area coverage
The coverage and capacity objectives of 5G combined
with advanced antenna technologies means that some
new antennas are likely to be required. Where possible
an operator will place these antennas at an existing site
and at other times new locations will be required.
Mobile networks today consist of a mix of macrocell
sites to provide wide area coverage and small cells to
improve localised coverage and increase capacity.
Over the next few years, the number of small cell
installations will increase. Small cells can be used for both
coverage and capacity objectives. As small cells are close
to the users of mobile phones, it means that the phone
will operate more eciently, improving the available data
rate and reducing the exposure of the user.
These are termed heterogeneous networks or
‘hetnets’, see Figure 9. ‘Small cells’ is an umbrella
term for operator-controlled, low-powered radio
communications equipment (base stations) that
provide mobile and internet services within localised
areas. Small cells typically have a low visual impact
and have a range from ten metres to several hundred
metres. Mobile network macrocells typically serve
larger areas. More information can be found in the
GSMA publication Improving wireless connectivity
through small cell deployment.
Site sharing with other radio installations or existing
structures, where technically feasible and in line with
competition law and licensing conditions, is factored
into decisions on the most environmentally appropriate
base station solution. This means fewer new sites,
saving on cost of equipment and operating the
network. Appropriate siting and design may reduce the
visual profile of antennas.
Does 5G mean an antenna on every street corner
and inside all buildings? What will that mean for
the visual environment?
Questions and answers related to 5G | 21
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Figure 10
Advanced antenna technologies
In-building and street small cells
Macrocells for wide area coverage
Home small cells
Conventional antenna Smart antenna
Many of the antennas used for 5G will look similar to
those already present in the environment. Advanced
antenna technologies such as beam-forming require
the use of arrays of antennas to optimise the delivery
of the wanted radio signal to connected mobile
devices. Conventional antennas provide coverage
As shown in Figure 10, a conventional base station
antenna transmits a radio signal to a wide area
regardless of how many users are connected. Smart
beam forming antennas transmit radio signals only to
connected users reducing nterference and exposure.
Beamforming involves combining the signal from
multiple antennas to improve performance. However,
operation at higher frequencies means that the size of
many of the antennas is expected to be similar to that of
existing installations.
This smart antenna technology is also called massive
MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output). Operator tests
have shown that smart antennas can serve many more
users for the same amount of spectrum bandwidth.
Will 5G network antennas look similar to what
we already see in towns and cities, on rooftops
and in fields?
similar to how a floodlight illuminates a wide area.
The new antennas are like a flashlight providing
coverage where it is needed and reducing unwanted
signals. Smart antennas increase capacity and improve
eciency.
22 | Questions and answers related to 5G
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
What will be the size of compliance zones around
5G network antenna sites?
Smart antennas for 5G networks produce lower time
averaged exposure for the same source characteristics
than conventional antennas. Where regulatory
authorities allow the use of updated assessment
methods this can result in smaller compliance zones.
The size and shape of compliance zones will be
evaluated and implemented according to international
technical standards.
New approaches to assess RF compliance provide
greater accuracy and are applicable to all mobile
technologies. Smart antenna technologies produce
a number of narrow beams that change with call
requirements. These changing beams require new
approaches to assessing compliance as existing
methods would significantly overestimate the size of
the compliance zones
Mobile network antennas are typically directional.
Compliance zones extend in front of the antenna
The same limit values that protect people also protect
the environment. The report of an international
workshop on EMF and the environment concludes
that there is ‘no proven scientific evidence of adverse
eects in animals or plants under realistic environmental
conditions’ due to low-level radio signals.
23
In addition, the Antenna Bureau in the Netherlands
(Antennebureau) has also refuted conspiracy-theorist
and a small distance above and below. If an antenna
could be accessible to the public, then there are signs
and barriers to advise them of the antenna, and how
to proceed safely. The antennas are positioned so
the public cannot access these areas. Access and
shutdown procedures for maintenance workers may be
agreed between the mobile operator and the landlord
of a rooftop or the operator of street lights when the
antenna is installed.
Mobile networks are designed to use only the power
needed to provide quality services. Too much power
would cause interference and aect all users. One of
the goals of 5G is a substantial increase in network
energy eciency. Some of features being considered
include reducing the power of transmitters when they
are not in use and implementing sleep modes. Another
approach, is to reduce the amount of signaling needed
to maintain connectivity.
claims that 5G tests harmed birds.
One of the goals of 5G is a 90% reduction in energy
use. This will be achieved by reducing the power of
transmitters when they are not in use, implementing
sleep modes and reducing the amount of signaling
needed to maintain connectivity.
Is 5G dangerous for the environment?
23. Biological Eects of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields above 100 MHz on Fauna and Flora: Workshop Report, Pophof et al., Health Physics, 124(1):31-38, January 2023 (https://dx.doi.org/10.1097/
HP.0000000000001625)
Questions and answers related to 5G | 23
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Will large numbers of small cells mean an increase
in exposure?
I have read social media articles linking the spread
of COVID-19 with 5G. Is this true?
How do you respond to the petitions calling for 5G
to be stopped?
No. Small cells are used by current mobile networks to
provide localised coverage or capacity and their use will
expand with 5G. They may be mounted on street lights
or inside buildings, where over 80% of mobile usage
occurs in developed markets. Measurements of 4G small
cells by the French spectrum agency
24
and a study
25
of
No. WHO states that there is no link between 5G and
COVID-19, confirming that viruses cannot travel on radio
waves and/or mobile networks.
The WHO maintains that COVID-19 is spread through
respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs,
sneezes or speaks.
The science mentioned in these petitions is already well
known to the international scientific community and
has been evaluated by independent expert groups who
a
lmost 100 small cell sites in South Africa, the
Netherlands and Italy found that levels in nearby
areas remained well below the international safety
guidelines and about the same as the level due to the
macro network.
5G mobile networks do not spread COVID-19 and the
GSMA urges governments around the world to take
swift action against disinformation, vandalism and
threats against mobile networks.
consistently conclude that the international guidelines
protect all members of the public and the environment.
“The strict and safe exposure limits for electromagnetic fields recommended at EU level
apply for all frequency bands currently envisaged for 5G.
26
24. Rapport technique sur les déploiements pilotes de petites antennes en France pour favoriser l’accès au très hautdébit mobile. L’Agence nationale des fréquences (ANFR). December 2018.
25. Measurement of EMF exposure around small cell base station sites, van Wyk, et al., Radiation Protection Dosimetry, 184(2):211-215, August 2019
26. European Commission response to questions from the European Parliament, May 2019.
24 | Questions and answers related to Internet of Things (IoT)
Questions and answers
related to Internet of
Things (IoT)
4
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
The Internet of Things (IoT) describes the coordination
of multiple machines, devices and appliances
connected to the Internet through multiple wired and
wireless networks. These include everyday objects
such as smartphones, tablets and other consumer
electronics, and machines such as vehicles, equipped
with IoT connectivity that allows them to send and
receive data. Machine-to-machine (M2M) refers to
services that are enabled by the communication
between two or more machines. Mobile IoT technology
connects machines, devices and appliances wirelessly
to deliver services with limited direct human
intervention. A wide variety of monitors and sensors
are now being equipped with wireless connectivity
enabling smart wireless applications in healthcare,
agriculture and services such as water and electricity.
20
A key design expectation of IoT enabled devices is that
they will operate at low powers with battery life of up to
10 years in some applications. This is possible because
they will only transmit small amounts of information,
using very low power and the transmissions will not be
continuous. The transmission interval and the amount of
data will depend on the application.
Commercial wireless networks for IoT applications
have already been deployed in some countries. Mobile
IoT refers to low power wide area (LPWA) 3GPP
standardised secure operator managed IoT networks
in licensed spectrum. Existing cellular networks have
evolved to deliver service to new devices providing
complete IoT connectivity. 5G will support massive IoT
and enable applications based on ultra-reliable, low-
latency communications.
Questions and answers related to Internet of Things (IoT) | 25
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Introduction to IoT
Are testing standards in place for IoT devices
and networks?
IoT devices operating above 30 MHz and below 6
GHz will be covered by existing international technical
compliance testing standards for wireless devices and
networks. Where the devices are operating at higher
frequencies they will be covered by the updated testing
standards that are under development for 5G devices.
Some IoT devices will be exempt from testing because
their very low power combined with intermittent
transmission, see Figure 11, means that they are certain
to comply with the relevant exposure limits.
EXAMPLE:
Assume a Narrowband IoT (NB IoT)
21
. device able to transmit 10 to 25 kbits of data for a
time duration of 450 ms with a maximum peak power of 200 mW and a duty cycle of 10 %.
This would be more data than required for many IoT applications. If this data transmission
occurs every minute the average power transmitted over this period is 0.15 mW.
This is more than 100 times below the threshold power of 20 mW at which testing is
required by some standards. Such a device would not require compliance testing.
0.45
60
X 200 X 0.1 = 0.15 mW
20. Further information is available in the GSMA publication Smart meters: Compliance with radio frequency exposure standards.
21. NB-IoT is a standards-based Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) technology developed to enable a wide range of new IoT devices and services. NB-IoT significantly improves the power consumption of user devices, system
capacity and spectrum eciency. It is designed to provide connectivity for devices and applications that require low mobility and low amounts of data transfer
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Figure 11
Illustration of a NB-IOT device duty cycle
Measurement averaging period
RF transmission period
Duty Cycle (%) = x 100
RF transmission period
Measurement averaging period
These transmitters are regarded as safe as they are required to comply with relevant exposure limits. The radio
transmitters in toys are generally low power and short range and many use familiar technologies such as Wi-Fi and
Bluetooth.
Some of these devices may be powered by harvesting
energy from the radio signals all around us. If that is
possible what does it mean for my exposure?
Some toys now have radio transmitters installed,
are these safe?
As the level of RF signals in the environment is
low this is only suitable for devices with very low
energy requirements .The ability to extract energy
from ambient radio signals has a major advantage
in reducing the need for batteries or significantly
extending battery life. A specialised circuit converts
some of the ambient RF energy into electrical power to
charge a battery. This may be useful for very low power
devices, such as sensors that could be positioned in
large numbers to monitor the environment or trac,
and which transmit small amounts of data at intervals.
26
| Questions and answers related to Internet of Things (IoT)
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Questions and answers related to Internet of Things (IoT) |
27
5G is optimised to support the Internet of Things (IoT)
in three major areas. Low data rate IoT applications
such as sensors or identification trackers with long
service lifecycles and that may need to be connected
over very long distances will use recently developed
3GPP technologies. As standards evolve, 5G will make
it possible to manage large numbers of such connected
objects even more eectively. 5G can support new high
speed IoT applications, for example 4K cameras and
control of drones. A new opportunity enabled by 5G is
critical IoT applications requiring unparalleled reliability
(99.999%) and extremely low latency (1 ms minimum).
Example applications include connected vehicles,
health equipment and industrial applications such as
remote control of machines.
How will 5G support the Internet of Things?
Will large numbers of connected objects increase
exposure to radio signals?
Even if there are a large number of connected objects
in the future, levels of exposure to radio waves will not
change significantly as connected objects will be very
low power and will transmit only intermittently. In
general, the quantity of data to be exchanged will be
very small. It is very important for many connected
objects (IoT) applications that use of energy is
minimised to extend battery life. Portable and wearable
devices are a sub-category of IoT devices intended for
use close to the human body. The radio transmitters
in wearable devices generally operate at very low
power to conserve battery life and often use familiar
technologies such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Generally,
the devices only transmit at intervals and over short
distances, for example, to a nearby smartphone, tablet
or laptop, and therefore, exposure is very low.
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Questions and
answers related to
wearable devices
5
28 | Questions and answers related to wearable devices
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
With the rapid evolution of consumer lifestyles,
wearable devices, such as smart watches and fitness
bands, have increasingly become part of the everyday
life. Wearable devices incorporate electronics, software,
sensors and connectivity, often using a wireless
technology. From a relatively low base, the wearables
The international exposure limits for the public have
been designed to be protective even in the case of
continuous exposure, 24 hours a day, 365 days per year.
The radio transmitters in wearable devices generally
operate at very low power to conserve battery life
Some devices will be exempt from testing because
their low power or intermittent transmission means
that they are certain to comply with the relevant
market is growing rapidly, presenting opportunities in
a number of sectors, such as health, household, textiles
and construction. While these devices are currently
used for entertainment and other tasks like monitoring
physical activity, there are also increasing examples of
devices for use in healthcare applications.
Introduction to wearable devices
Is it safe to wear these wireless devices continuously?
RF transmitters in wearable devices operate at extremely low power levels and normally
send signals in streams or brief bursts (pulses) for a short period of time. As a result,
wearable devices expose the user to very small levels of RF radiation over time.
United States Centers for Disease Prevention and Control
22
Questions and answers related to wearable devices | 29
22. https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/wearable.html
and often use familiar technologies such as Wi-Fi
and Bluetooth. Generally the devices only transmit at
intervals and over short distances, for example, to a
nearby smartphone, tablet or laptop.
exposure limits. Other devices are tested using
international technical standards to ensure compliance.
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Wearable devices operating above 30 MHz and below
6 GHz will be covered by existing testing standards
for wireless devices. Where the devices are operating
What about children wearing RF transmitting
devices, for security or entertainment?
The radio transmitters in such devices are generally
very low power and relatively short range. When
tested they are required to comply with national or
international exposure limits. When watching a video
Are testing standards in place for wearable devices?
30 | Questions and answers related to wearable devices
at higher frequencies they are covered by the testing
standards that are applicable to 5G devices.
the device is mostly receiving information and only
transmits information for brief periods. Other types
of devices such as personal trackers also transmit for
short periods of time.
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
Driver distraction is an important risk factor for
accidents and the role of mobile phones in this regard
has been the subject of extensive research and
regulation. The GSMA recommends against activities
that involve drivers taking their eyes o the road. Driver
distraction can also occur without taking your eyes o
the road. Some governments recommend that calls
that are complex or demanding should not be taken
while driving.
There is little published research assessing the specific
impact of smart watches on driver distraction. In
many countries it is illegal to use a mobile phone while
driving unless used with an appropriate hands-free
I have seen devices advertised for use with babies,
for example, sleep monitors, are they safe?
The radio transmitters in baby monitors are generally
low power and relatively short range. When tested they
Are smart watches safe to use when driving?
kit. A hands-free device can reduce the physical eort
to make and receive calls, however, it alone does not
make using a mobile phone while driving safe. Drivers
should always keep both eyes on the road and not
read, write or send messages or look at the Internet.
Also, they should not email or take notes during a call
while driving.
Both operators and automakers have been active in
eorts to promote compliance with national laws and
responsible mobile phone use by drivers. There are
many examples of educational campaigns, often aimed
at particular driver segments such as inexperienced
drivers.
Questions and answers related to wearable devices | 31
are required to comply with national or international
exposure limits.
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
1G/2G/3G/4G/5G 1st to 5th generation mobile communication technologies
EMF Electromagnetic field
GHz Giga-Hertz
IARC International Agency for Research on Cancer
ICNIRP International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission
IoT Internet of Things
ITU International Telecommunications Union
Kbits kilo bits seconds
LPWA Low Power Wide Area
M2M Machine-to-Machine
Mbps Megabits per second
MHz Megahertz
MIMO Multiple-Input Multiple-Output
mmW millimetre-wave (mmWave)
ms millisecond
mW milliwatt
NB-IoT Narrowband IoT
RF Radio frequency
WHO World Health Organization
Wi-Fi Wireless Fidelity, wireless networking technology
Resources for additional information
Abbreviations
EMF-Portal
https://www.emf-portal.org/en
GSMA – EMF and Health
https:///www.gsma.com/emf
ICNIRP – 5G Radiofrequency - RF EMF
https://www.icnirp.org/en/applications/5g/index.html
International Telecommunications Union (ITU) EMF Guide
https://emfguide.itu.int/emfguide.html
WHO – Electromagnetic Fields
https://www.who.int/health-topics/electromagnetic-fields
32 | Resources for additional information/Abbreviations
These web sites provide useful information for people who may want to know more about these topics.
5G, THE INTERNET OF THINGS AND WEARABLE DEVICES: RADIO FREQUENCY EXPOSURE
| 33
GSMA HEAD OFFICE
1 Angel Lane, London, EC4R 3AB, UK
Tel: +44 (0)207 356 0600
Email: [email protected]om
September 2023