skip navigation
Home >  WorkSafe >  Safety Topics >  Additional safety topics >  Mobile phones >  Frequently asked questions

Mobile phones

Frequently asked questions

Content

  1. Can I get cancer from using my mobile phone?
  2. What other health effects are caused by using mobile phones?
  3. How can I limit exposure to radiowaves from mobile phones?
  4. What if I have to use my mobile phone for work while driving?
  5. What other risks do mobile phones pose in a workplace?

1.  Can I get cancer from using my mobile phone?

Most scientists do not believe mobile phones cause cancer, as the energy from radiowaves emitted by mobile phones is not sufficient to cause damage to the genetic material in cells (DNA), which is considered necessary for cancers to form.  If any damage does occur, it is believed to be so small that no way has yet been found to measure it.  National and international bodies are continuing to research these issues.

2. What other health effects are caused by using mobile phones?

Concerns have been expressed about other health effects such as memory loss, changes in attention and variation in blood pressure, however there is little scientific data to support these concerns and so to most researchers this seems to indicate any risk is minimal.  National and international bodies are continuing to research these issues.

3. How can I limit exposure to radiowaves from mobile phones?

Ways of reducing exposure, in order of significance include:

  • using land-line phones where practicable, especially for long calls;
  • making fewer mobile phone calls;
  • spending minimal time on mobile phone calls;
  • retrieving voicemail messages on landline phones;
  • using 'hands free' mobile phone kits;
  • holding the phone away from your ear;
  • buying mobile phones with lower power outputs; and
  • selecting a handpiece design that uses effective shielding technology.

Not all of these ways are proven and new technology is being developed all the time which may utilise innovative ways to reduce exposure.

4. What if I have to use my mobile phone for work while driving?

It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving.  Even using a  "hands free" mobile phone while driving can be distracting and potentially dangerous.

5. What other risks do mobile phones pose in a workplace?

Hand-held mobile phones should not be used in a workplace where they may pose a safety risk.  For example:

  • where use may interfere with equipment in hospitals and aircraft; and
  • in potentially explosive atmospheres, including blasting operations and fuelling areas such as petrol stations.

Further advice on safety risks is available from manufacturers.

Related information