The basics of biological effects seen with NIR relevant to human health is reviewed,
including the optical biological effects of photochemical and heating; the electromagnetic
fields of surface heating, electrical burn and shock. A survey of the current emissions from
various sources and exposures from human activities involving NIR based on the National
Radiological Protection Board (NRPB) of the United Kingdom and the International
Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) is presented.
Finally, a brief review of the standards and guidelines for NIR is presented. Further research
based on epidemiological studies, experimental biology, volunteer studies and dosimetry are
needed. These areas of science play an essential role in identifying possible health effects and
in providing information on appropriate exposure guideline levels.