As Wi-Fi facilities are getting more popular around the world, concerns have been raised about the impacts of radio frequency signals on human health. According to the research studies in the industry, the radiation levels released from Wi-Fi networks are far lower than those from ordinary mobile phones. With reference to a research report sponsored by the World Health Organization, there is no evidence to prove that the use of Wi-Fi facilities will adversely affect human health in anyway.

To protect public health, all wireless products sold and used in Hong Kong must comply with the international safety standards. The Government will use Wi-Fi devices that comply with the relevant standards, and operate them at a suitable distance in order to protect the health of workers and the public.

Information about the Health issue of Wi-Fi is as follows:

• Report of Radiofrequency Radiation Measurements: Public Wi-Fi Installations in Hong Kong
• More on electromagnetic radiation

Below are the questions and answers about the impact of Radio Frequency (RF) on health:

Q: What is Radio Frequency (RF)?
A: Radio frequency, or RF, represents a frequency within the electromagnetic spectrum associated with radio wave propagation. The spectrum can be ranged from 3Hz to 30GHz.

Q: Is the RF signal generated by Wi-Fi network comparable to RF exposures from X-ray systems?
A: The signals produced by Wi-Fi network belong to the "non-ionising" type, which is distinctly different from the "ionising" type that is adopted in X-ray system.

Q: Are there any safety standards in Hong Kong to guard against the use of Wi-Fi devices?
A: The Office of the Telecommunications Authority (OFTA) has adopted the "International Commission of Non-Ionising Radiation Protection Guidelines" to limit the emission of non-ionising radiation within specified RF in order to protect the health of workers and the public. All Wi-Fi products sold and used in Hong Kong must comply with the standards specified in the Guidelines.

Q: Is it safe to work near to Wi-Fi facilities?
A: The Wi-Fi facilities in the Government premises will follow the "Code of Practice for the Protection of Workers and Members of the Public Against Non-Ionising Radiation Hazards from Radio Transmitting Equipment" from OFTA. The Government will use Wi-Fi devices that comply with the relevant standards, and operate them at a suitable distance in order to safeguard the health of workers and the public.