Safety standards for exposure to RF electromagnetic fields

Looking back at the past 40 years of development and forward to the new millennium, this article reviews the subject of safety standards for exposure to microwave/RF energy. The present standards are highly advanced with the use of modern dosimetry and a thorough computerized review of the literature. The bioeffects and hazards are predominantly thermal in nature and applicable standards, whether for exposure or product performance, incorporate large safety factors. These standards are the result of broad consensus among an appropriate balance of scientists, engineers, and stakeholders that results under the due process of the IEEE Standards system.