A Hazard Assessment Method for the U.S. Army Microwave Radiation Protection Program

Abstract

A combination of assessment of hazard potential by analysis and measurement by experienced antenna engineers, and implementation of recommendations made by the U.S. Army Environmental Hygiene Agency (USAEHA) is the backbone of the Army Microwave Radiation Protection Program. Primary responsibility for establishing safety criteria and recommending controls is assigned to USAEHA. By establishing radiation protection programs based on the Agency's recommendations, commanders have sought to comply with the Army's regulations and protect their personnel from continuous exposure to microwave power density levels in excess of 10 mW/cm2, or any exposure to greater than 100 mW/cm2; the current U.S. Standard. Following the Federal Standard, the Army controls exposure from frequencies of 10 MHz and up. Sources include radar, communication equipment, physical therapy RF and microwave diathermy, industrial induction heaters, and microwave ovens and cooking devices.