Answer to Question #6921 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Microwaves, Radar, and Radiofrequency — Microwaves and Radiofrequency

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

My son is currently serving in the army. He recently moved into a metal building that has a radar unit mounted near it. He is worried about the effects of this exposure. He and his squad will be sleeping in this building and spending their down time in it. Should he be concerned about exposure and what could the possible effects be?

In general there is nothing to worry about. There are government, including Department of the Army, standards to protect both the public and military. Microwave emissions from radar sites must be below a certain level, while higher levels must be restricted—usually with fencing or distance, sometimes by mounting on a tower. The army routinely surveys such facilities. I know because I worked for that agency once.

This type of radiation is also shielded by using metal. I suspect your son is probably not receiving any of this radiation and if he is, it is so low you should not worry about it. There also continues to be a lack of credible scientific evidence to show that such emissions pose a safety issue. I personally don't consider them dangerous.

Microwave radiation, the type emitted from radar, is also similar to the type used by cell phones. Its primary mode of biological interaction is heating, unlike ionizing radiation (x rays, radioactivity, etc.). Microwave ovens use this type of radiation, but in high amounts. These ovens must have two safety interlocks to operate safely and protect the public. Cell phones and radar emissions are extremely low, however, and very safe.

For additional information on radiofrequency (RF) radiation, I refer you to the Health Physics Society's Q and A section that addresses microwave radiation along with other electromagnetic radiations. Embedded in some of these answers are additional links to other Web sites with useful information.

Orhan H. Suleiman, MS, PhD

Answer posted on 22 February 2008. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.