RF-EMF EXPOSURE LEVELS IN SENSITIVE LAND USE IN GREECE: EDUCATIONAL UNITS CENSUS IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF KORYDALLOS

Abstract

Abstract Background The growing popularity of mobile phones and the expansion of network infrastructure in Greece have raised concerns about the possible negative health effects on sensitive groups, such as children, from exposure to long-term radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs). Aims The objective of this study is to estimate mean RF-EMF exposure levels of primary and secondary education schools located in the municipality of Korydallos, Athens, Greece. Methods We performed measurements to all the schools units ($n=62$) in the region in order to calculate the mean value for RF-EMF exposure in the range of 27 MHz–3 GHz, which covers the whole spectrum of RF-EMF sources. Results At the $97.5\%$ of schools found in Korydallos region, the exposure level is at least 2200 times below the Greek exposure limits. Conclusion The exposure levels in the locations tested are both below $60\%$ of the highest limit set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection regarding school exposures.