Health and Safety Information 185Cell Phone Industry ActionsAlthough the existing scientific data do not justify FDAregulatory actions, the FDA has urged the cell phone industryto take a number of steps, including the following:• Support-needed research on possible biological effects of RFfor the type of signal emitted by cell phones;• Design cell phones in a way that minimizes any RF exposure tothe user; and• Cooperate in providing users of cell phones with the currentinformation on cell phone use and human health concerns.The FDA also is working with voluntary standard-settingbodies such as the Institute of Electrical and ElectronicsEngineers (IEEE), the International Commission onNon-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), and others toassure that safety standards continue to adequately protectthe public.Reducing Exposure: Hands-Free Kits and OtherAccessoriesSteps to Reduce Exposure to Radio Frequency EnergyIf there is a risk from being exposed to radio frequencyenergy (RF) from cell phones - and at this point we do notknow that there is - it is probably very small. But, if you areconcerned about avoiding even potential risks, you can takea few simple steps to minimize your RF exposure.• Reduce the amount of time spent using your cell phone;• Use speaker mode or a headset to place more distance betweenyour head and the cell phone.Hands-Free KitsHands-free kits may include audio or Bluetooth® headsetsand various types of body-worn accessories such asbelt-clips and holsters. Combinations of these can be used toreduce RF energy absorption from cell phones.Headsets can substantially reduce exposure because thephone is held away from the head in the user's hand or inapproved body-worn accessories. Cell phones marketed inthe U.S. are required to meet RF exposure compliancerequirements when used against the head and against thebody.
