Network
The siting of masts to support the mobile phone networks is a concern for some local communities. The chief reason is the perceived health implications of electro magnetic fields (EMF). The scientific consensus remains that EMF emitted from mobile communications masts that comply with international standards do not pose a threat to human health. However, studies also call for further independent research into any areas of uncertainty and we support this recommendation.
We often commission independent emissions tests for our masts and invite community representatives
to witness the proceedings. Results from these tests demonstrate that all our masts operate hundreds, if not thousands, of times below strict international guidelines.
O2 aims to comply with all planning regulations including the Code of Best Practice on Mobile Phone Network Development. This code sets out the procedures required of both mobile operators and Local Planning Authorities in dealing with applications for mast development. It includes the industry's Ten Commitments to best siting practice, which helps address public concern by improving communication with local residents.
It is our policy to fully comply with the Ten Commitments, but recent reviews by Deloitte and Touche concluded that, while UK operators are showing demonstrable progress, there is more to do.
As a result, we have introduced improvements to our record keeping and are currently examining how we can improve communication and consultation with local communities and make greater use of site notices, local press advertising and letter drops.
Our team of community relations officers are tasked with providing information on where we plan to build and responding to questions on our build programme. We attend public meetings, consult through drop-in sessions, distribute information leaflets, and we operate a dedicated O2 UK helpline for queries (telephone: 0113 388 6780 - acquisition.developments@o2.com). To encourage higher take-up of 'drop-ins' we regularly include local stakeholders, such as councillors, MPs, or representatives from residents' associations in our meetings. We also publish a list of all the sites we plan to develop in any coming year. The locations of current sites are available through:
