The exposure standards for radiofrequency radiation set by ARPANSA are:
| Exposure category | Frequency (f) range | Power flux density | |
|---|---|---|---|
| W/m2 | mW/cm2 | ||
| Occupational | 10MHz - 400MHz | 10 | 1 |
| 400MHz - 2GHz | f/40 | f/400 | |
| 2GHz - 300GHz | 50 | 5 | |
| General Public | 10MHz - 400MHz | 2 | 0.2 |
| 400MHz - 2GHz | f/200 | f/2000 | |
| 2GHz - 300GHz | 10 | 1 | |
The exposure standard is set by ARPANSA in Australia. ARPANSA bases its recommendations on those of the international expert bodies ICNIRP (International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection) and the WHO (World Health Organisation).
The scientific basic of the derivation of the exposure limits is explained in the document available at http://www.arpansa.gov.au/pubs/rps/rps_qa.pdf
In brief, the exposure limits are based on a large body of scientific research data. They are designed to protect against all known adverse effects and to prevent unwanted nuisance effects (physical effects that have no long-term health implications). The possibility of adverse health effects, such as carcinogenesis, at levels below those where any effects have been shown, has been considered by the incorporation of significant safety factors into the exposure limits. ARPANSA monitors the extensive continuing worldwide research program into radiofrequency bioeffects.
The limits for members of the public are set lower than for those of occupational exposure. Occupational exposure does not mean all exposure during a person's work hours, it applies specifically to people who work with radiofrequency equipment. The member of the public limits take into account the possibility that a person might be exposed 24 hours per day.