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Switzerland to monitor potential health risks posed by 5G networks

ZURICH: Switzerland will introduce a monitoring system to assuage concerns about the potential health impact of fifth-generation (5G) mobile frequency emissions and smooth the cutting-edge technology’s rollout, the government said on April 17.

The cabinet agreed to have the federal environmental agency measure levels of so-called non-iodising radiation, assess the risks and regularly inform the public about its findings.

The move comes as some Swiss cantons baulk at authorising new antennas needed to support 5G services after a spectrum auction in February that raised 380mil Swiss francs (RM1.55bil).

Telecoms operators are keen for 5G frequencies to gain an edge in new digital services such as powering self-driving cars or the internet of things – smart devices and sensors that can be managed remotely and are expected to proliferate as fifth-generation mobile networks are launched in the years ahead.

Parliament has also twice refused to alter existing emissions limits until it is clearer what risks might arise. – Reuters

Source : TheStar