Telecommunications: Aerials
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what guidance she has issued to local planning authorities on verifying ICNIRP self-certification against actual site conditions and public access restrictions.
Answered by Kanishka Narayan
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology is not responsible for public health considerations related to radio waves, nor for monitoring or measuring mobile network operators’ compliance with their existing obligations in this area. In the United Kingdom, the Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advises the Government on health impacts of electromagnetic fields (EMF) and monitors emerging evidence.
Wireless network operators must comply with the guidelines set by The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection under licencing conditions set by Ofcom. Ofcom can enforce compliance, including the requirement to meet public EMF limits and maintain records demonstrating compliance.
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requires operators declare that proposed sites comply with ICNIRP guidelines when submitting planning applications. As best practice, operators should provide self-certification statements with all applications confirming adherence to ICNIRP guidelines. The NPPF is the responsibility of Ministry for Housing, Communities, and Local Government.
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