📡 RF Exposure Evaluation – What You Need to Know

RF exposure evaluation is the process used to measure the radio frequency field strength levels generated by your equipment. It’s an important part of ensuring safe operation for both yourself and those around you.

🆕 FCC Rule Changes

The FCC has recently updated its RF-exposure rules:

• Service-specific exemptions have been eliminated.

• A unified formula now applies to all radio services, including Amateur Radio.

• Exposure limits remain unchanged, as do the two-tiered environments:

• Controlled exposure: Applies to amateurs and household members who have received RF safety instructions.

• Uncontrolled exposure: Applies to the general public or anyone not informed about RF safety.

For more details, check out the ARRL RF-Exposure FAQ.

🧮 Using the RF Exposure Calculator

To evaluate your setup:

1. Fill in the form with details about your radio, coaxial cable, and antenna.

2. Consider ground reflections, especially if your antenna is close to the ground.

3. Click “Calculate” to see your results.

You may need to run the calculator multiple times to get a complete picture—especially if your antenna has multiple lobes or directional characteristics.

For more information about the gain of your antenna, ARRL has an excellent article explaining it.
Click here to open that page on ARRL's website.

Looking for coax loss information and a calculator?
Here's an excellent page on QRZ that will be useful.

If you'd like to see or download the 316 page document from ARRL about RF Exposure and You, you'll find it here. Below that is a video on RF exposure rules. Here's the link to the document.

🎥 RF Exposure Safety – What You Need to Know

This 44-minute video covers the current RF Exposure Safety rules that went into effect on May 3, 2023. It’s a straightforward, easy-to-follow overview that’s perfect for both seasoned operators and newcomers looking to stay compliant.

You’ll learn:

• What’s changed in the FCC’s RF exposure regulations

• How to evaluate your station’s RF field strength

• The difference between controlled and uncontrolled exposure environments

• Practical tips for using the RF Exposure Calculator

Whether you’re setting up a new station or reviewing your existing setup, this video is a great starting point. It keeps things simple while delivering solid, actionable information.