Base station reflected in a field

International and national guidelines for health and safety are strictly adhered to at all Telenor base stations and antenna installations. Network equipment, such as antennas at repeater sites and base station sites, as well as mobile phones themselves, emit radio waves that deliver extensive, high-quality mobile coverage. Such radio waves are often referred to as “radio signals.” They are emitted from all electronic equipment, and in a health context they are called electromagnetic fields (EMF). The exposure level of such fields is often called “signal strength” and depends primarily on the distance to the network equipment or the phone, and the power used by them to send such signals.

Whenever Telenor installs new network equipment, we ensure public health and safety by adhering strictly to the electromagnetic field exposure guidelines of the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). These guidelines are endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Illustration

Radio signals from mobile phones

Mobile phones emit radio signals to communicate with base stations. The specific signal strength levels depend on the distance to the base station as well as the type of mobile phone. All commercially available mobile phones comply with the safety limits endorsed by WHO, and their so-called SAR value (Specific Absorption Rate) is printed in the user manual or on the box. At Telenor, we are committed to engage in dialogue and to communicate in a transparent manner with anyone concerned about the effect of radio signals or seeking more information about any of our network installations and mobile devices.

Even though no harmful effects have so far been proven in research, users may take precautions to limit their exposure to radio signals from phones, such as:

  • Using hands-free equipment when talking on the mobile phone

  • Avoiding long calls

  • Sending SMS/MMS rather than calling

Mobile use and health

Mobile phones and mobile data devices are an integral part of everyday life in just about every society in the world. At Telenor, we are respectful of anyone coming forward with concerns related to mobile technology and their health, or the health of their families.

Telenor Group’s position on mobile use and health (EMF)


More information on electromagnetic fields

The Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority

WHO: 5G mobile networks and health

ICNIRP: Mobile phones, base stations (masts) and 5G specific update from 2020

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it safe for children to play near masts with mobile antennas? Why does my ear heat up during long mobile phone calls? See our FAQ and find the answers to these and other questions.

Mobile antennas

  • A mast with mobile antennas has been erected next to our daycare centre/school. Is this safe?

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  • There is a mobile antenna on the roof of the block of flats where we live. Is this safe? 

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  • Is it safe for children to play near towers with mobile antennas?

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  • How strong is the signal from a mobile antenna on a tower or building?

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  • What is the signal strength from an indoor mobile antenna? 

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  • Why are mobile antennas installed on domestic buildings?

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  • A number of antennas are often installed in the same place. How does this affect the total radio signal strength?

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  • Do 3G,4G or 5G networks emit stronger radio signals than 2G?

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  • Do antennas for mobile communication continuously send out signals?

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  • Can we trust the limit values? 

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  • Will large antennas send stronger signals than small antennas?

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Mobile phones

  • Why does my ear heat up following long calls on the mobile phone? 

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  • Can mobile phones cause headaches? 

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  • Should children’s use of mobile phones be restricted?

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  • How do you measure the signal strength from a mobile phone? 

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  • How strong are the radio signals from a mobile phone?

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  • Are there methods of reducing radio signals from mobile phones?

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  • Will 4G and 5G phones emit stronger radio signals than 2G or 3G phones?

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  • Is it possible to reduce the signal strength by using hands-free equipment (earplug and cable)? 

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  • Does the mobile phone emit radio signals when it is not in use? 

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  • Is it wise to use wireless hands-free equipment (Bluetooth)? 

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  • Some people claim that mobile phones are a health hazard. How much research is conducted on radio signals and mobile phone use?

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  • How do mobile phones emit radio signals in comparison to other electric/electronic articles such as microwave ovens, PCs, etc.? 

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  • Where can I get more information on radio signals and health risks?

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