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Always on the safe side
Switzerland has the worlds' strictest emission regulations for transmission systems. For your safety.
Strict safety measures are subject to even stricter controls
When setting emission limits for base stations, many countries rely on the recommendations issued by the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection or ICNIRP. They are approximately fifty times lower than the threshold above which any adverse effects are possible. Switzerland not only follows these recommendations, but even goes one step further: the Ordinance Relating to Protection from Non-Ionising Radiation (ONIR) implements a precautionary principle, having introduced system values for base stations which provide for ten times more protection.
Switzerland has the most effective protection
By combining comprehensive implementation regulations with extremely low limits as stipulated by the ONIR, Switzerland has the world's strictest emission requirements for transmitter systems. By virtue of this and the restriction pertaining to the transmission power of mobile phones by way of the SAR Value, even children and less robust individuals are reliably protected against injurious health effects. This is confirmed by the great majority of current research work designed to clarify suspected effects. Nevertheless, intense in-depth research continues in this area so that any residual risks can be ruled out with more certainty.
Mechanisms and public authorities ensure oversight
Upon the completion of installation of a base station, the cantons in which the system is sited can have a measurement conducted of the transmitter power output levels specified in the construction permit application and in the event that they are exceeded - which is extremely rare - demand that this be remedied. In addition, they also conduct unannounced checks to determine whether the safety requirements and limits are adhered to at all times during operation.
Limit applicable to electromagnetic fields in Switzerland
Our commitment
We conform unconditionally to all regulations and limits. In the research area of mobile communication, we not only sponsor many research projects but also have a large amount of in-house competence.
Our accredited measurement agency has performed pioneering work in the field of control measurements. We joined together with other market players in founding "Forum Mobil" for the express purpose of enabling objective dialogue. Active environmental management and environmental certification are positive proof that we comply with and implement environmental requirements.
How to reduce exposure to radiation while using your mobile
Those seeking to further reduce exposure to radiation while using their mobile can follow a few basic rules and thus enhance their sense of personal protection:
Try to use your phone only where there is good reception: the phone will work with less power there.
Phone in the usual positions: that way you can ensure good reception and optimal safety.
Use a hands-free kit: this will increase the distance between the mobile phone and your head. Carry the mobile phone in a separate pouch rather than on your person: the greater the distance from the body, the greater the reduction in electromagnetic waves.
Affix external antennae to cars: constant changes between network cells and absorption by solid bodywork in cars frequently force mobile phones to work at full power. External antennae provide a remedy. Mobile phones should not be used in cars, however, because they distract the driver's attention and are therefore a hazard to all road users.
Give preference to state-of-the-art railway carriages with built-in repeaters: They receive low-power mobile phone signals and retransmit them.
Do not place too much emphasis on the SAR level: the way in which a mobile phone is used is more important.
Don't use "radiation blockers": at best they are useless; at worst they actually absorb waves and cause the mobile phone to step up its transmission power.
Further information:
Low radiation mobile phones
"Low-radiation" mobile.
Federal Health Department
Indirect effects of electromagnetic waves.
Statutory regulations
Limits applicable in Switzerland according to NISV.
International values
International recommendation on limits.
Independent experts
International, independent commission for Protection against non-ionising radiation ICNIRP website.