By Dayo Johnson, Akure
THE Nigerian Communication Commission, NCC yesterday, allayed fear of Nigerians that the radio frequency radiation from masts and towers are non ionising radiation that can cause any adverse effect on human beings.

Executive Commissioner, Stakeholders Management of the commission Mr Okechuckwu Itanyi who made this disclosure at the 51st edition of Consumers outreach programme held in Akure, said the clarification became imperative because of the consumers apprehension of the proximity of installation of mast and towers to residential areas and the noise generated from sites.

According to him, recent research shows that the radio frequency radiation from the mast and towers “”are non ionising radiation and therefore cannot create any positive and negative charges particles that will cause an adverse effect on people.
He pointed out that the Commission as a responsible regulator will always abide by the international standards and in accordance with the best practice.
Itanyi added that the commission’s guidelines for the installation of telecoms mast and towers are designed to provide public safety and ensure the well being of all telecoms consumers.

He said that to promote the consumers, guidelines for the installation of mast and towers were designed that they are sited within residential areas conform to the commissions standard of 5 meters set back to mitigate the effect of heat, smoke and noise pollution fro generating sets.

According to him the telecoms should towers above 25 metres in height and are not permitted within districts delineated as residential areas.

Itanyi however assured consumers that all telecom equipment coming into the country are being typed approved by the commission to ensure compliance with international standard on health and safety.

He added that research by the World Health Organisation has not yet shown any risk to human life as a result of the radiation from the telecoms equipments like mast and towers