It was inevitable that concern over the possible health risks related to wireless networks would move from mobile phones, through Tetra, to cast its spotlight on WiFi.
The recent BBC’s Panorama programme sought to stir up a hornet’s nest of public feeling on the issue. Its reporter recoiled in horror at readings that showed the electromagnetic field from WiFi in a particular school classroom was three times that received in the main beam of a mobile phone basestation.
The programme then proceeded to point out that we can be exposed to WiFi at any time, without knowing it, due to the proliferation of hotspots in coffee shops, homes, offices — virtually everywhere really.
So what was proved? Nothing.
Yes, we are exposed to radio waves at all times from various sources and there may be people who are sensitive to electromagnetic fields, but this does not mean there is an adverse health effect from this exposure.
According to the Health Protection Agency: “There is no consistent evidence to date that WiFi and wireless LANs adversely affect the health of the general population.”
The Agency said it saw “no reason why WiFi should not continue to be used in schools”, but then advised that a “precautionary approach” be taken on the issue.
Its chairman, Sir William Stewart, has stated it would “be timely to carry out further studies as this new technology is rolled out” and the Agency is discussing this.
Studies continue trying to link illness to GSM and Tetra, and WiFi looks set to join it.
Some years ago, Roger Coghill told EW he was concerned about the health risks from mobile phones, pointing out that X-rays were used to measure feet for shoes until the exposure risks became apparent.
Let us hope his concern remains unfounded because any damage caused will be on a huge scale. And what would it actually take for people to give up the convenience of wireless in its various forms?