STUDY ON NON-IONIZING RADIATION (RADIO FREQUENCY) AT BROADCASTING SECTOR
Author: Yurizman JAMIL
Abstract: Application of non-ionizing radiation is growing in line with the rapid technological developments which impact on human exposure may result in danger if not controlled. As such, MEASAT Broadcast Network Systems Sdn. Bhd. has been selected to be assessed regarding electromagnetic radiation – radio frequency (RF) measurement around its broadcast facilities at ASTRO complex in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur. This study was conducted on the 3rd and 4th of February 2016. The measurement was encompassed only on the assessment of the electromagnetic radiation (radio frequency – RF) in the accessible areas within and around the ASTRO’S broadcast facilities (about 1.5 meters from the floor/ground). Mapping plot measurements method on the radiation source was made for non-ionizing radiation exposure readings for the electric field and magnetic field (near field) between 1 to 5 meters and the distance (far field) between 10 up to > 100 meters in the area that can be in access. The time measurements were taken and recorded for six minutes (RF) for each point of measurement (ICNIRP 1998, IEEE 1991, HWC 1999 and ARPANSA 2002). Measured radiations were assessed and evaluated against the mandatory standard exposure limits and the recommendations issued by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). The electromagnetic (RF) radiations present within the ASTRO complex were measurable but of low levels. The electrical field strengths and magnetic field strength were well below the exposure limits stipulated by the MCMC guidelines for members of the public and workers. The determined level of power density measured for the public at all locations around 0.04 μW/cm2 to 0.54 μW/cm2 exposure where the percentage was only about 0.004% to 0.054% when compared to the limits set by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission. Based on the finding of these measurements, it was strongly believed that the presence of non-ionizing radiation emitted by the equipment within the ASTRO complex with the present loads would not lead to any significant radiation exposure received by workers around the facilities. Based on observation and preliminary inspection, at some places, especially those which were very close to the transmitting and receiving antennas, are expected to experience much higher radiation level than what was observed during the survey. This is because the range of frequencies produced by the antenna is more focused on the micro-wave frequency. It is, therefore, strongly recommended that limited accessing to these antennas to be provided with proper control measure such as by putting up radiation warning signs and notices at their entrance so that chances form personnel to get any significant or unnecessary exposure to radiation can be minimized.
Keywords: Non-Ionizing Radiation, Electromagnetic Field, Radio Frequency, Broadcasting Sector, Electric Field, Magnetic Field, Near Field, Far Field, Mandatory Standard Exposure Limits, MCMC