RESEARCH AND EVALUATION OF THE INTENSITY PARAMETERS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS PRODUCED BY MOBILE COMMUNICATION ANTENNAS

As the network of cellular mobile phones has recently expanded and in particular after the digital GSM 900/1800/2100 systems have been introduced, the potential effect on human health of electromagnetic radiation from the base stations of these systems has become of great concern to European countries. There have been requests made in some countries for areas free from mobile phones in which installation of base stations would not be permitted and for considerable reduction of the maximum authorised exposure or other restrictions. The European Commission's Recommendation adopted on 12 July 1999 requires that the maximum field strength for electromagnetic radiation (0-300 GHz) is established and that information about population's exposure to EMF and the measures taken to reduce it is provided. The article presents and analyses EMFs produced by mobile communication antennas in a residential area. Measurements of the electric strength, magnetic strength and EMF power density were performed and compared to the established hygiene norms. Tests were conducted in the near- and far-field of the antenna, on residential premises located directly in front of the antenna within its main radiation lobe. In addition, there were performed measurements of electromagnetic fields produced by mobile communication in rural areas.