While many people express concerns about radio frequency (RF) radiation or emissions, not many property owners are aware that analyses are regularly performed to show the anticipated RF levels at certain points on their properties.
While measuring RF levels is a challenge due to many factors, computer modeling has come a long way in recent years to show the RF path emitted from antennas, and its penetration levels within a building.
A challenge we regularly see with this report is the "points of interest" (POI) or points of measurement that are used to run the report. Wireless carriers typically will select two POIs; the rooftop, and the ground level. This leaves all levels within the building unmeasured.
Property owners rarely, if ever, see these reports. In our view, these reports go a long way to answering questions that property owners may have themselves, or that they may be asked about the effects of the antennas on occupants of their buildings. Additionally, these reports could also be utilized to show that many concerns raised by tenants or neighbors of the building are unfounded.
The reports will typically model the estimated propagation pattern for each antenna on the rooftop, displayed at maximum power. This allows the wireless carrier and property owner to identify "Controlled Areas" where only trained professionals should work, vs. "Uncontrolled Areas" where low levels of RF may exist at levels that have been determined to be safe by the FCC for the general public.
Understanding how these reports can and should be compiled can be important for property owners to understand. Property owners with multiple cellular carriers on rooftops need additional insight to ensure reports are performed accurately.
If you are a property owner with antennas on your rooftop and have questions about the RF studies, NIER Reports, or EMF Studies, contact your wireless tenants. Should you need our assistance, click here to contact Gunnerson Consulting.