Answer to Question #6921 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

In general there is nothing to worry about. There are government, including Department of the Army, standards to protect both the public and military. Microwave emissions from radar sites must be below a certain level, while higher levels must be restricted—usually with fencing or distance, sometimes by mounting on a tower. The army routinely surveys such facilities. I know because I worked for that agency once.

This type of radiation is also shielded by using metal. I suspect your son is probably not receiving any of this radiation and if he is, it is so low you should not worry about it. There also continues to be a lack of credible scientific evidence to show that such emissions pose a safety issue. I personally don't consider them dangerous.

Microwave radiation, the type emitted from radar, is also similar to the type used by cell phones. Its primary mode of biological interaction is heating, unlike ionizing radiation (x rays, radioactivity, etc.). Microwave ovens use this type of radiation, but in high amounts. These ovens must have two safety interlocks to operate safely and protect the public. Cell phones and radar emissions are extremely low, however, and very safe.

For additional information on radiofrequency (RF) radiation, I refer you to the Health Physics Society's Q and A section that addresses microwave radiation along with other electromagnetic radiations. Embedded in some of these answers are additional links to other websites with useful information.

Orhan H. Suleiman, MS, PhD