Customer Health and Safety
Mobile base stations allow mobile phones to be connected for voice calls and data services via the transmission of radio frequency (RF) waves or electro-magnetic field (EMF). While there is no substantiated evidence of health risks at large, perceived health risks can still be a concern for our customers, the community and regulators. We take necessary precautions to ensure compliance with local and global standards. We continue to monitor research findings on EME risks and their implications on relevant standards and regulations in the markets where we operate and the rest of the world.
In Singapore, the Radiation Protection & Nuclear Science Department (RPNSD), an office of the National Environment Agency (NEA), is responsible for all matters relating to EME exposure. According to RPNSD, the levels of mobile phone radiation permitted in Singapore complies with the WHO’s recommended International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) standards and that radiation exposure from base stations is far lower than that from mobile phones. The ICNIRP Standards are adopted by many countries around the world and are considered best practice. Additional information from the Singapore Health and Sciences Authority can also be found here.
Whenever there are concerns from the public or building owners, Singtel engages NEA to conduct measurements near the mobile base stations, antenna locations and the locations of concern. The mobile phone handsets sold at our Singtel Shops also comply with regulatory guidelines set out by RPNSD and IDA.
In Australia, we design and deploy our network to comply with the relevant Federal Government mandated standards for exposure to EME. These standards are formulated and regularly reviewed by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA). ARPANSA is part of the Commonwealth Department of Health. ARPANSA’s Standards are based upon those recommended by the ICNIRP. We also conduct audits of base stations and undertake predictive EME modelling and testing to ensure compliance at our sites with the Australian standards. All of our sites have EME reports available to the public