A Review on Administrative Controls to Radiofrequency and Microwave Radiation based on recommendations of International Organizations

Radio frequency and microwaves radiations are a part of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation that have various applications in different work environments. Administrative measures reduce the occupational exposure with low cost and acceptable performance. This study using narrative review was conducted to investigate the recommended administrative controls that published by international organizations in order to control the occupational exposure to Radio Frequency and microwave radiations.

Firstly, the international reference organizations were determined in relation to the research topic. Then, based on the PICO principle, related keywords designed. Then, all documents as a Government Document, Legal Rule or Regulation, Publication, Standard, Report, Guideline, Manual, were reviewed in English language without time limit. In addition, the search was conducted on two external databases (BING and GOOGLE). Then, the process of reviewing, screening and eliminating repeated, unrelated, and unusable resources was carried out. After preparation of the full text, the process of translation and extraction of related information conducted based on the organizations and administrative measures. In this study, experimental research, descriptive studies, analytical studies, Meta-analyzes, and systematic reviews, did not entry. Also, documents with incomplete and obscure information were also not used.

The results of this study showed that there are several international organizations that work up in field of occupational exposure control to radiofrequency and microwave radiation. extracted administrative measures are diverse and including the inspection, medical monitoring, employee participation, safe/standard operating procedure, compliance with standards, preventive maintenance, lock out/ tag out, safety signs and warnings, workplace monitoring, Responsibility of the employer, exposure limit, access restrictions, reducing output energy, training and distance .

Meanwhile, exposure limits, maintenance process and access restrictions were the most recommended administrative controls. Among the international organization, the International Labor Organization (ILO) presented the most diverse and comprehensive administrative controls. It is suggested that the results of this study be used in health and safety radiation policies and as a simple guide to introduction on recommended administrative measures for managers and occupational and environmental health experts