With the continued evolution of mobile phone technologies and the development of the wireless broadband sector in Ireland, the issue of the health impact of wireless communications facilities is under constant scrutiny.

Extensive research carried out by international bodies has shown that as yet, there is still no evidence creating a direct link between mobile technology and a degrading effect on peoples health. In spite of this research, people remain sceptical. To ensure the safety of individuals certain standards have been put in place. As with any business area, the wireless communications sector is governed by comprehensive health and safety regulations.

Irish Standards

ESB Telecoms has a business policy to develop sites for co-location in keeping with the Department of the Environment Guidelines in relation to 'Telecommunications Antenna and Support Structures 1996'. The Irish Government has issued guidelines that must be adhered to in relation to the planning and construction of base stations. ComReg is responsible for the regulation of the wireless communications sector in Ireland. ESB Telecoms strictly complies with all of the current recommendations and is continually monitoring any changes.

International Standards

The global wireless communications market is extremely well monitored. Many well recognised bodies have issued guidelines and recommendations for operators to adhere to. Along with the Governments Guidelines, the World Health Organization (WHO), International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the EU have all produced reports relating to Wireless Communications. ICNIRP are the advisors to the WHO on matters of Non-Ionizing Radiation and Health. No standard, guideline or statement published thus far suggests that radio frequency emissions from wireless communications base stations represent a hazard to the health of the general public. All of the reports are available in full on the relevant web sites.

Non-Ionising Radiation

Non-Ionising Radiation is monitored and checked by an annual audit carried out by Enterprise Ireland on behalf of ComReg. Random telecoms sites are selected and checked for compliance by taking readings of any signals which may be found in the surroundings of base stations. This is carried out to ensure that the current levels from different sites do not exceed the IRPA limits. All ESB Telecoms' sites are open to inclusion into this audit. When audited, ESB Telecoms' sites are found to be in the order of thousands of times within the safe legal limits. ESB Telecoms periodically carries out surveys of our own to ensure that our sites comply with all regulations.

Compliance

ESB Telecoms strives to meet and exceed all legal national and international standards set out by all regulatory authorities. The safety of our employees, customers, contractors and the general public is our constant concern.