Be Informed.

Arcadia is often asked by our friends, neighbors, and property owners about proximity to towers and radio frequency (RF) safety.  Many false claims (and even conspiracy theories) have circulated about RF and links to cancer and other health issues.  As rumors spread, consumers have, rightfully so, become concerned about possible negative health issues related to wireless use.  In determining the safety of RF, it is important to separate facts from misinformation.

The wireless industry is heavily regulated, from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and National Council on Radiation Protection (NCRP) to state and local laws.

The FCC is required by NEPA to evaluate the effect of RF on consumers and workers by FCC regulated equipment.  This equipment includes cell phones, Wi-Fi routers, baby monitors, bluetooth enabled devices, cellular equipment, and other devices, all of which emit RF.  Beginning in 2013, the FCC spent six years studying claims of the effects from RF limits from these devices.  In 2019, the FCC, in consultation with the FDA Center for Devices and Radiological Health, found that the current RF limits established by the FCC do not support adverse health effects in humans. 

Despite the results of the research from this study, some interest groups have interpreted reports to conclude that wireless devices may be linked to cancer and other illnesses.  While these claims have gained much public attention, no scientific evidence establishes a causal link between wireless device use and cancer or other illnesses.

Today, there are numerous examples of cell towers in our neighborhoods located on or in proximity to municipal buildings, schools, parks, homes, commercial properties, malls, churches, industrial parks, stadiums and public venues. RF transmitters are safely located on cell towers, rooftops, water tanks, light standards, utility poles, inside malls and airports, and even inside church steeples.

Arcadia’s sites and our customers’ equipment are required to operate within all federal, state, and local rules and regulations, including those related to health and public safety.  RF safety and education is a priority for Arcadia.

We have provided the information below to help our friends, neighbors, consumers, schools, parents, municipalities, and real estate owners to make informed, educated decisions regarding RF health and safety.

Radio frequency emissions FAQ from the FCC
Frequently Asked Questions about radio frequency emissions and facilities regulated by the FCC.

Cell Phones & the FDA
The FDA is, by law, responsible for consulting with federal agencies on testing and evaluating electronic product radio frequency emissions and making available scientific information on the hazards.

The WHO research on RF fields
World Health Organization (WHO) research on radio frequency fields

Electromagnetic fields and Cancer
National Cancer Institute resource on electromagnetic fields and cancer and links to additional resources

The American Cancer Society and Cell Phone Towers
American Cancer Society information on cell sites, 5G networks, and radio frequencies