You are here: O2 in society > Health and mobile safety > Facts on mobile and health > Network, masts and health

Network, masts and health

Our industry today has a far-reaching and positive impact on society – and it also makes a very significant economic contribution around the world.

The mobile phone has become an essential communications tool. It makes life easier, safer and more enjoyable for all. But there remains public concern that exposure to radio waves from phones and base stations may pose a health risk.

The health of our stakeholders is paramount.

All our base stations comply with international guidelines, typically by a factor of 100 times or more where the public have access. Exposure from mobile handsets is higher, but well below international guidelines and with a significant safety margin.

We are reassured by all available current research. International bodies, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), are clear – to date there is no convincing evidence that mobile technology poses a risk to health.

However, WHO and other agencies believe there may still be gaps in our knowledge.

We take this seriously. We fully support the ‘precautionary approach’ recommended by the Independent Expert Group on Mobile Phones’ Stewart Report (2000). We also support current research programmes with data and funding.

We draw on strict codes of practice and expert advice to formulate policy and to guide our actions. But like most areas of scientific interest, research into the alleged health effects of mobile phones is ongoing - and no one can provide all the answers.

But we aim to offer advice and information on health and safety and mobile phones to anyone who asks.

We are determined to provide the safest possible products and network - and to work openly and in consultation with our customers and the communities we touch.