4. Controlling RF/MW Radiation | Radiofrequency and Microwave Radiation in the Workplace

Engineering Controls

Sources of RF/MW radiation should be properly shielded to minimize stray radiation.
Devices which can produce acute thermal injuries (e.g., industrial MW ovens) should have interlocked doors.
Devices which produce high levels of stray RF radiation (e.g., induction heaters and dielectric heaters) should be operated remotely whenever possible.

Exposure of workers to RF/MW Radiation should not exceed the recommended exposure limits.
Areas where worker exposure to RF/MW Radiation is suspected to exceed the recommended limits should be surveyed to determine the exposure levels.
Needless exposure to RF/MW fields should be avoided.
Exposure times should be kept as short as reasonably possible.
Potentially hazardous RF/MW devices should be appropriately labeled, and areas of excessive exposure around them clearly demarcated. Notices with warnings and the necessary precautions should be posted.
Electrically-activated explosive devices should not be placed near sources of RF/MW radiation.
RF/MW devices should not be used in flammable or explosive atmospheres.
Equipment sensitive to RF/MW radiation, such as telephone switchboards or control panels, should not be installed near sources of RF/MW radiation.
Maintenance of devices used to produce RF/MW radiation should be done by qualified personnel following standard safety procedures. The equipment should be turned off whenever possible.

When exposures cannot be reduced by the above methods, RF/MW protective suits, including head and eye protection, can be used. Suits should be tested to ensure that they reduce worker exposure to levels below the occupational exposure limits and that they do not pose any safety hazards (e.g., overheating, shocks, or fire).

Metallic structures producing contact shocks should be electrically grounded and/or insulated.
Insulating platforms or shoes (e.g., rubber-soled shoes) can be used to reduce energy absorption and currents to ground.
When the above measures are ineffective or not reasonably possible, workers should wear insulating gloves.

Remove worker from exposure area to a cool environment and provide cool drinking water.
Apply cold water or ice to burned areas.
Seek immediate medical attention.
Severe MW or RF overexposure may damage internal tissues without apparent skin injury, so a follow-up physical examination is advisable.

For more information about radiation protection in the workplace, please call the Radiation Protection Service at (416) 235-5922.