Safe Technology in School Communities
Solutions
Thankfully, it's not rocket science to restore safe technology in our schools.
Safe technology begins with a mindset, reset.
Here are simple, inexpensive steps families, and our school districts can begin taking today to reduce microwave frequency exposures and choose greener, sustainable, tech infrastructure.
School boards, educators, and parents can work together to create environments that support both educational excellence and the well-being of students and teachers. Promoting wired connections, reducing unnecessary wireless emissions, and adopting safe tech practices can help achieve this balance effectively.
Let's help our families and school communities stay connected and protected!
Measure First, Mitigate Next
The first step in creating optimally healthy environments is to measure and identify the presence of environmental toxins, including radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR). RF-EMR, emitted by wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi routers, cell towers, and smart devices, is a pervasive environmental factor that may impact human health. Accurate measurement is essential for understanding exposure levels, identifying sources, and implementing effective mitigation strategies.
Trained Building Biologists use specialized tools such as RF meters. They can assess the intensity (power density) and distribution of RF-EMR. This data provides a clear picture of potential risks and helps guide decisions on safe technology practices. By quantifying RF-EMR exposure, steps can be taken to reduce it, such as using wired connections, optimizing device settings, and implementing shielding measures. This proactive approach fosters healthier environments and promotes well-being for all occupants.
Measuring radiofrequency (RF) levels in school playgrounds is an essential step in ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff. By identifying RF radiation levels in these areas, schools can take informed steps to mitigate exposure, especially if levels exceed the precautionary benchmark of 1,000 µW/m², as recommended by current science.
High RF exposure in playgrounds can come from nearby cell towers, Wi-Fi networks, or other wireless devices. Regular monitoring with calibrated RF meters allows schools to pinpoint specific sources and assess whether levels align with safety guidelines. If measurements reveal excessive exposure, schools can implement effective solutions, such as collaborating with service providers to adjust cell tower configurations, reducing the power of on-campus Wi-Fi routers, or incorporating shielding technologies.
These proactive measures not only protect students and staff from potential health risks but also demonstrate a commitment to creating a safe, healthy learning environment. Moreover, reducing RF exposure aligns with broader efforts to promote environmental stewardship and public health awareness.
Cell towers located within 1 km of schools can significantly exceed precautionary RF-EMR thresholds, underscoring the importance of these protective measures.
Congratulations to the Simcoe District Elementary and Catholic School Boards for prioritizing student safety by prohibiting cell towers and antennas near schools. These elementary schools provide a safer environment for everyone, with RF-EMR levels peaking well below 1,000 µW/m².
Elementary Schools
Mitigation Solutions for Safer Use of Wireless Devices
in School Environments
Given the large and growing body of science linking exposure to RF radiation with behavioral problems and neurological impairment, it would seem logical that any non-essential exposure to RF radiation at schools should be avoided.
Wired technology is the safest choice for connectivity. In an increasingly wireless world, wired technology remains the gold standard for safe, reliable, and efficient connectivity. Whether in schools, homes, or workplaces, wired solutions offer several advantages over wireless systems, particularly when it comes to reducing exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation and ensuring secure and stable networks
Health and Safety Advantages of Wired Technology
No RF Radiation, use Wiser Wired technology: Unlike wireless devices that emit RF radiation to transmit data, wired technology operates without emitting such signals. This eliminates concerns about potential health effects associated with prolonged exposure to RF radiation, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and those with electromagnetic sensitivities.
Safe for Sensitive Populations: Wired systems provide a critical alternative for individuals diagnosed with electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), a condition where exposure to wireless radiation causes physical symptoms. Wired technology allows these individuals to work and learn comfortably without exacerbating their condition.
Supports Long-Term Health Precautions: Numerous precautionary guidelines, including those from the Building Biology Institute and the BioInitiative Report, recommend minimizing RF exposure wherever possible. Wired technology aligns with these recommendations, making it the safest choice for reducing environmental exposure.
Reliability and Performance Benefits
Consistent Connection Quality: Wired connections, such as Ethernet, provide faster and more stable internet speeds compared to wireless networks, which are prone to interference from walls, devices, and other wireless signals.
Lower Latency: Wired systems have minimal delays compared to wireless, making them ideal for applications requiring real-time communication, such as video conferencing, online education, and gaming.
No Signal Interference: Wired networks are immune to the signal interference that often affects Wi-Fi, ensuring consistent performance even in environments with multiple connected devices.
Security and Privacy Advantages
Enhanced Data Security: Wired networks are inherently more secure than wireless ones. Without RF signals broadcasting data over the air, it is far more difficult for hackers to intercept sensitive information.
Reduced Risk of Breaches: Wired systems eliminate vulnerabilities associated with open or poorly secured Wi-Fi networks, making them a safer option for environments like schools and businesses where protecting sensitive information is a priority.
These are ways to reduce radiation exposure in elementary school classrooms:
Applications in Schools, Workplaces and Homes
Classrooms: Using wired connections for computers, interactive Smartboards, and other classroom technology reduces students’ and teachers’ exposure to RF radiation while ensuring reliable internet access for educational tools.
Education Offices: Wired networks in workplaces prevent network disruptions caused by overloaded Wi-Fi systems, enabling smoother collaboration and enhanced productivity.
Homes: A light timer can turn off the wireless router at night, so families can benefit from healing hormones (melatonin) released in the absence of wireless radiation during dark, night time sleep. Families can also benefit from a safer environment by connecting desktops, streaming devices, and gaming consoles through Ethernet cables, reducing unnecessary wireless exposure.
Wired Technology for Future Sustainability
Energy Efficiency: Wired connections generally consume less energy compared to maintaining wireless access points and transmitting signals, making them a greener choice for sustainable tech infrastructure.
Longevity of Infrastructure: While wireless technology requires frequent updates to hardware and software to keep up with advancing standards (e.g., 4G to 5G), wired systems are more durable and adaptable, offering long-term reliability.
How to Transition to Wired Technology
Wired technology is the safest and most reliable choice for modern connectivity. By adopting wired solutions, we can minimize health risks associated with RF radiation, enhance network performance and security, and create environments that prioritize well-being and sustainability. Whether in schools, homes, or workplaces, making the switch to wired technology is a proactive step toward a safer and healthier future.
Use Ethernet Cables: Replace Wi-Fi connections with Ethernet cables and adapters wherever possible for desktops, laptops, and streaming devices.
Install Wired Networks: Invest in structured cabling systems for schools, offices, and homes to ensure full coverage without relying on wireless routers.
Educate Users: Raise awareness about the benefits of wired technology and use wired connections effectively.
Safe Tech Training: Unions and schoolboards can educate teachers and staff about safe technology practices, including turning off wireless features (Cellular, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth antennas) when not needed and encouraging wired alternatives. Airplane mode will turn off the cellular antennas, but in many phones, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can be turned off only in settings.
Cell phones: Many schools are now addressing the twin issues of screen time addiction and classroom distraction by adopting policies that strictly limit or prohibit the use of cell phones in school at any time. These policies benefit everyone in schools, including students, teachers and staff.
It is important that as part of the policy prohibiting cell phones in schools, students are required to turn their phones off and deposit them in a receptacle that blocks any radiofrequency (RF) radiation emissions.
The banning of cell phones in schools brings with it the opportunity to re-evaluate the amount of RF radiation present in schools and take steps to reduce that radiation more generally. RF radiation negatively impacts a growing cohort of children and adults who are particularly sensitive to its effects, with symptoms that Include headaches, fatigue, inability to concentrate, depression, anxiety and cardiac arrhythmia.
Sample of Administrative Policy on electronic Communication Devices:
https://www.techsafeschools.org/_files/ugd/2cea04_54f3bed70b8f4ee2802b8c252ef59487.pdf
Access points: To minimize potential health concerns, it is recommended to install access points away from areas where students and staff spend prolonged periods, such as desks or seating areas. Configuring the devices to operate at the lowest effective power level and scheduling their operation to match school hours can also reduce unnecessary exposure. On/off switches enable staff to deactivate the signal when not in use. Additionally, adopting wired connections whenever possible and educating staff about safe technology practices can further enhance safety in environments where access points are used.
Smartboards: Smartboards represent a key component of modern classrooms, but their wireless functionality should be managed responsibly.
To minimize RF radiation exposure while retaining the educational benefits of Smartboards, schools can adopt the following measures:
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Wired Connectivity: Whenever possible, Smartboards should be connected to classroom networks via wired Ethernet connections instead of relying on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This reduces wireless emissions and enhances network reliability.
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Scheduled Use: Limiting the time Smartboards are powered on and actively connecting to wireless networks can help reduce unnecessary radiation.
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Optimal Placement: Position Smartboards at a safe distance from students, particularly younger children who may spend extended time in close proximity to the device.
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Network Configuration: Adjust router and access point settings to lower transmission power while maintaining functionality of smartboard, following the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).
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Educational Benefits vs. Health Precautions: Smartboards are undeniably valuable in fostering interactive and engaging learning environments. They allow for innovative teaching methods and improved accessibility to information. However, balancing these benefits with health and safety considerations is essential. By implementing precautionary measures, schools can ensure that Smartboards are used in ways that minimize potential risks while maximizing their educational impact.
Smartwatches and personal devices: The levels of RF radiation from personal devices like smartwatches can be similar to smartphones or tablets, and their close proximity to the body—often worn continuously—raises questions about potential long-term health effects. Many smartwatches remain connected to smartphones or networks, emitting frequent signals to maintain synchronization and data updates. Some considerations for the use of smartwatches and similar devices include:
Proximity to the Body: Since these devices are worn directly on the wrist, they are in constant contact with the body, increasing localized exposure to RF radiation compared to devices used intermittently or at a distance.
Health Awareness: Although research on the health impacts of smartwatches is still emerging, precautionary measures can reduce exposure. For example, users can disable wireless features when not in use or opt for models that offer airplane mode or offline functionality.
Alternatives and Usage Practices: For tasks such as fitness tracking, some non-wireless or low-frequency alternatives exist, like pedometers or standalone heart rate monitors. When using a smartwatch, limiting unnecessary connectivity features, such as turning off Wi-Fi or cellular data, can reduce RF emissions.
While personal wireless devices provide significant convenience, balancing their usage with precautionary measures can help minimize potential risks and promote safer use, especially for children, adolescents, and individuals with heightened sensitivity to wireless radiation.
RF Mitigation Summary for School Boards & Educators
The summary below was graciously provided by Environmental Health Trust, ehtrust.org, which has numerous scientific resources on wireless in schools https://ehtrust.org/why-are-doctors-concerned-about-the-health-effects-of-wireless-and-cell-phones-in-schools/
and a website on how to create a lower EMF healthy home, https://healthytechhome.org/
How to reduce EMF exposure in schools and classrooms:
Summary of Ways to minimize RFR in the classroom:
School policies:
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Cell phones turned completely off and away from the body, not on silent mode
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Prohibit leases for cell towers on school property
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Monitor RFR levels in classrooms and remediate elevated levels
Classroom practice:
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Ensure iPad and tablets are used on tables, not laps
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Teach students how to use airplane mode and work offline
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Screen movies for students to watch collectively, with wired connections, not by wireless streaming or virtual reality goggles (wireless headsets)
Educate students on how to reduce cell phone radiation:
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Use a speakerphone, instead of a phone to the head
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Carry the phone away from the body, not in a pocket or bra
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Use wired, not wireless, headsets
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Turn the phone off and move it away from the bed at night
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Educate students on situations where devices emit higher RFR so students can reduce usage in these conditions
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Text rather than video chat; minimize wireless streaming
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Show students how to connect devices to the internet with ethernet cords
Prioritize hardwired internet connections:
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Install and utilize ethernet ports in each classroom to enable hardwired connections for laptops and tablets, instead of Wi-Fi
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Purchase tech that offers ethernet ports and an easy way to turn devices on airplane mode
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Connect accessories (keyboards and mouse) with cords, not wireless
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Connect stationary equipment, including printers, projectors, and IoT devices with ethernet and corded connections
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Use pre-downloaded software, rather than cloud based, so students can work offline as often as possible when using Wi-Fi
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Reduce the power output level of Wi-Fi routers so that they provide only the desired coverage; also, consider using low-emissions routers when replacing them
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Install On/Off Switches to disable Wi-Fi access points. Default settings should be set to off
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Install hard wired ethernet internet systems in new construction
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Install hard wired telephones in every room, not cordless–this is important for security reasons as well as for lowering radiation
Click on the links from Tech Safe Schools to learn how:
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Measure exposures before and after mitigation.
https://www.techsafeschools.org/measuring-exposures -
Turn off cell phones and other personal devices during the school day, and deposit them in a receptacle that blocks any radiofrequency (RF) radiation emissions (shielded pouches, metal cans, etc.). https://www.techsafeschools.org/about-cell-phones
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Reduce power level and beacon signal on the wi-fi systems.
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Transition to hard-wired connections, they're safer, faster, more reliable and secure, and use less energy than wi-fi. https://www.techsafeschools.org/hardwire-options
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Limit exposure time and create distance. https://www.techsafeschools.org/distance
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Ensure no cell towers/antennas/5G small cells are allowed on or near the schools.
https://www.techsafeschools.org/cell-towers
Let's help our schools stay connected and protected!
Fact Sheet
TechSafe Schools
Mitigation
Science
Secondary Schools
Radiation exposure can be reduced in secondary schools.
[Please see elementary recommendations - More to follow].
Click on the links to learn how:
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Measure exposures before and after mitigation.
https://www.techsafeschools.org/measuring-exposures -
Turn off cell phones and other personal devices during the school day, and deposit them in a receptacle that blocks any radiofrequency (RF) radiation emissions (shielded pouches, metal cans, etc.). https://www.techsafeschools.org/about-cell-phones
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Reduce power level and beacon signal on the wi-fi systems.
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Transition to hard-wired connections, they're safer, faster, more reliable and secure, and use less energy than wi-fi. https://www.techsafeschools.org/hardwire-options
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Limit exposure time and create distance. https://www.techsafeschools.org/distance
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Ensure no cell towers/antennas/5G small cells are allowed on or near the schools.
https://www.techsafeschools.org/cell-towers
Let's help our schools stay connected and protected!
Sample Phone Policy
Mitigation
Science
Reducing RF Exposures at University and in Dorm Rooms
As universities increasingly rely on wireless technology, students may be exposed to high levels of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic radiation. To create a safer learning and living environment, students can take the following steps to reduce their RF exposure in classrooms, study areas, and dorm rooms:
In the Classroom & Study Areas:
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Use Wired Connections: Connect laptops to Ethernet ports instead of using Wi-Fi. Many universities provide wired access points in libraries and study halls.
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Turn Off Wireless Functions: Disable Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data when not needed to reduce unnecessary RF emissions.
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Encourage Safe Tech Policies: Advocate for designated low-RF study zones or encourage professors to use wired projectors and microphones.
In Dorm Rooms:
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Use an Ethernet adapter and cable for internet access instead of relying on dormitory Wi-Fi.
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Use a Low-EMF Router: If using Wi-Fi, choose a router with adjustable signal strength and turn it off at night with a timer switch.
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Disable Unused Wireless Features: Turn off Bluetooth and mobile data on devices when not in use.
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Keep Devices Away from the Bed: Switch phones to airplane mode while sleeping. Charge phones farthest away from the desk/bed areas, or outside the bedroom (if possible).
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Use Wired Accessories: Choose wired keyboards, mice, and headphones instead of wireless alternatives.
Additional Strategies:
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Measure RF Levels: Use an RF meter to assess exposure levels and adjust device placement accordingly.
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Limit Smart Devices: Avoid using smart speakers, wireless printers, and other always-connected devices in the dorm.
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Educate Peers: Spread awareness about digital wellness and RF reduction strategies among roommates and classmates.
RF Mitigation Companies:
RF mitigation companies specialize in reducing electromagnetic radiation exposure in indoor environments, including university dorms. They can provide expert assessments and tailored solutions to help students create safer living spaces. They can provide:
1. Professional RF Assessments & Monitoring
Conduct on-site RF measurements to identify high-exposure areas.
Provide customized RF reduction plans based on dorm layout and device usage.
2. Shielding Solutions
Install RF-blocking window films to reduce external exposure from nearby cell towers.
Provide shielding fabrics, curtains, and bed canopies to create low-EMF sleep areas.
3. Wired Alternatives & Safe Tech Setup
Assist in setting up wired Ethernet connections.
Work with the college or university to provide low-EMF routers with adjustable signal strength and on/off scheduling.
Recommend wired peripherals like keyboards, mice, and headphones to eliminate Bluetooth emissions.
4. Smart Device & Appliance Modifications
Disable or replace wireless-enabled dorm appliances (e.g., smart speakers, Bluetooth devices, and wireless printers).
Use RF filters and dirty electricity reducers to minimize electromagnetic interference from power sources.
Set up router kill switches and timer plugs to automatically turn off Wi-Fi at night.
By implementing these simple changes, students can create a healthier environment for learning, studying, and resting while minimizing unnecessary RF exposure.
Home / Community
How to be safe from wireless radiation at home and the community.
First measure, then reduce RF emissions from wireless sources.
Healthy Tech at Home:
https://healthytechhome.org/healthy-tech-guide/
Doctors, school administrators, and teachers are addressing smartphone disruptions and excessive screen time. How can we reduce other tech harm from invisible EMF (microwave) radiation? https://healthytechhome.org/resources/american-academy-of-pediatrics/
Identify Sources of Radiation at home
The first step is to identify the sources of microwave radiation in your home.
Here are some examples of multiple sources of radiation you may have in your home, including cell phones, wireless devices and keyboards, Smart devices, 5G antennas outside your bedroom window.
Measure Signals in Your Home
A building biologist can take measurements and provide you with a home assessment report.
DIY: Using an AM radio tuned to a blank channel, the loudest static noises can help you find wireless signals.
Signals can also be measured with an RF meter. You can also use your phone to identify Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices.
Once you've identified the sources of microwave radiation, you can make your devices safer.
Turn off Router With Light Timer
If your home isn’t wired, consider using an inexpensive light timer. Simply plug your router into the timer. Set it to turn off before bedtime and back on when you typically start your day in the morning.
You can also set your Wi-Firouter on a low setting. Lower settings protect your personal data and reduce microwave radiation exposure.
Call Forward and VoIP
Cell calls can be forwarded to your home landline.
If you don’t have a home phone, a VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) phone, connects through the internet and is typically available at an affordable monthly cost.
Voip box plugged into your router network with an ethernet cable and your phone line plugs into the voip box. ( tiny Magic jack)
Powerline Adaptor, POE Switch
You can plug a powerline adaptor into any outlet in your home and attach an ethernet cable so you can plug in devices anywhere in your home.
Wired Solutions often Provide
Superior Connectivity
You can wire your all your devices with cables and take them outside on your back deck.
Port Enabled Devices Provide Superior Wired Options
Computer stores carry adaptors to wire most devices.
Most routers have wired ethernet ports.
These are pictures of RJ45 to lightening adapters.
With an extra power connector, you can charge the phone at the same time.
Digital Detox
Children need a break from their devices. Outdoor play and social time with friends is key.
Age and Stage Matter
How young children are and how much time they spend with wireless enabled devices can make a difference to their cumulative, lifetime exposure. Health Canada suggested parents limit their child's RF exposure. (2019)
Quality Sleep
Your bedroom is your sanctuary for undisturbed, rejuvenating sleep.
Wireless devices need to be stored far away from bedrooms or antennas turned off while you sleep.
Vibrate mode still emits microwave radiation which interferes with a healing hormone called melatonin.
Alarms will still work when microwave emitting antennas (Cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) are disengaged.
Protecting Children, Families, and School Communities from RF Exposures: The Need for Stronger Policies and Education
Regulatory health and political organizations play a crucial role in safeguarding public health, yet current protections fail to adequately address the risks associated with radiofrequency (RF) radiation exposure, particularly for children, families, students, teachers, and school staff. Despite mounting scientific evidence linking RF radiation to adverse health effects, existing guidelines often lag behind emerging research and are insufficiently precautionary.
Children are especially vulnerable to RF exposures due to their developing brains and bodies. Schools, which are meant to be safe havens for learning and growth, are increasingly filled with wireless devices and technologies that emit RF radiation. Families and educators are left to navigate this complex issue without adequate support or clear public policies to guide safe technology use.
The Need for Public Policies
To protect the health and well-being of school communities, public policies must be updated to reflect the latest science. These policies should prioritize:
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Setting precautionary exposure limits that account for the vulnerabilities of children and pregnant individuals.
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Mandating the use of wired internet connections in schools to minimize RF radiation.
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Requiring regular assessments of RF levels on school grounds and in residential areas.
The Importance of Education
Education is essential to empower families, educators, and school staff with the knowledge to make informed decisions about technology use. Public awareness campaigns and curriculum integration can help communities understand:
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The potential health risks of chronic RF exposure.
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Practical strategies to reduce RF exposure at home and in schools.
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The importance of balanced and mindful technology use for overall well-being.
Call to Action
It is imperative that health and political organizations take immediate, science-based action to address RF exposure risks. By implementing protective policies and prioritizing education, we can create safer environments for children, families, and educators, ensuring that technology enhances learning and living without compromising health.
Technical Terms
Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation (RF-EMR): a type of electromagnetic radiation with frequencies in the radio, microwave frequency range, commonly emitted by wireless communication devices.