NCJ Number
137750
Date Published
Unknown
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This paper reports on the results of a study of radar safety conducted by the St. Petersburg Police Department (Florida) and policy decisions made as a result of the study findings.
Abstract
A review of the relevant literature by the Planning and Research Unit found a significant body of research on microwave radiation (radiation produced by radar). The literature on the bioeffects of radar, particularly nonthermal effects, was found to consist of controversial, often conflicting data; questionable methodologies and assumptions; and differing interpretations of results. All the experts contacted agreed that more interdisciplinary research is required to address the issue of the nonthermal bioeffects of microwave radiation. The radar units that were being used by the St. Petersburg Police Department (one-piece units with the antennae built into one end of the radar gun itself) were tested. This testing showed that the density of the electromagnetic field that emitted from the radar antennae was below the safety standards set by the American National Standards Institute. These standards, however, are based on the assumption that the primary danger of microwave radiation comes from thermal effects. The standards do not take into account the nonthermal effects of low-level radiation over a long term. Given the uncertainty about the nonthermal effects of radar, the St. Petersburg police chief decided to terminate the use of the radar units that had been used in favor of units that mount the antenna outside the police cruiser, such that the radiation cannot reach the officer inside the car. The unit will be pilot tested before it is placed in general use.