Telecom operators deny health hazards

Dubai: Mobile phone masts in residential areas are not a health hazard, telecommunication industry officials said.

An official spokesperson for the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA), told Gulf News the authority is not aware of any known health risks.

"The authority is working closely with international bodies to assure that the UAE follows the best practices globally to ensure the highest quality in telecommunication services," he said.

Scientific research has proved that there is no direct link between mobile masts and health risks, he said. "We have issued guidelines for erecting mobile transmission towers which is in line with the International Telecommunication Union criteria. Telecom operators in the country are closely monitored to ensure that they follow the guidelines."

TRA recently embarked on a project allowing the country's two telecom operators to share mobile stations to minimise infrastructure costs and to protect the environment and for beautification reasons.

In the first phase some 30 masts have been shared by both etisalat and du, and the authority is planning to triple the number by the end of this year, according to the TRA spokesperson.

In statement sent to Gulf News, du said there is extensive and conclusive evidence suggesting that there is no direct correlation to suggest a link between mobile phone stations and health issues. It cited an analysis conducted by the Untied Kingdom National Radiological Protection Boards of 26 international studies into the use of mobile phones and proximity to mobile phone stations.

Designated areas

"du's mobile [phone] masts are put up in areas designated for such facilities [including electricity and water] by the authorities. The process of approval for putting up a mast is a stringent one which involves getting clearance from the municipality, environmental agencies, civil aviation authority," according to the statement.

etisalat reassured that it uses international guidelines such as the Office of Engineering and Technology of the United States that ensures protection from exposure to radiation.

"The locations are selected in line with international safety standards," said an etisalat spokesperson.