Hands-Free KitsHands-free kits may include audio or Bluetooth ® headsets andvarious types of body-worn accessories such as belt-clips andholsters. Combinations of these can be used to reduce RF energyabsorption from cell phones.Headsets can substantially reduce exposure because the phone isheld away from the head in the user's hand or in approvedbody-worn accessories. Cell phones marketed in the U.S. arerequired to meet RF exposure compliance requirements when usedagainst the head and against the body.Because there are no known risks from exposure to RF emissionsfrom cell phones, there is no reason to believe that hands-free kitsreduce risks. Hands-free kits can be used for convenience andcomfort. They are also required by law in many states if you want touse your phone while driving.Cell Phone Accessories that Claim to Shield the Head from RFRadiationBecause there are no known risks from exposure to RF emissionsfrom cell phones, there is no reason to believe that accessorieswhich claim to shield the head from those emissions reduce risks.Some products that claim to shield the user from RF absorption usespecial phone cases, while others involve nothing more than ametallic accessory attached to the phone.Studies have shown that these products generally do not work asadvertised. Unlike “hands-free” kits, these so-called “shields” mayinterfere with proper operation of the phone. The phone may beforced to boost its power to compensate, leading to an increase inRF absorption.157
