RF EMISSIONS STUDIES (EME)

The initial site design, modification and approval process is typically met with fierce concerns regarding RF emissions emitted from the proposed site.  Although not officially documented due to the Telecom Act of 1996, which prohibits local jurisdictions to regulate RF exposure, past experiences show that most proposed sites were denied based on RF exposure concerns.  Dtech can tremendously help expedite the process by providing an independent RF study.  Dtech can perform a cumulative theoretical analysis using state of the art computer RF modeling  software that takes into account the worst-case power output of all transmitting sites and antennas.  The technical study would include expected RF exposure levels to the general public and occupational workers, safety and mitigation recommendations, and final determination of FCC compliance.  All reports bear our Professional Engineering (P.E.) stamp to certify our commitment to engineering excellence.

RF INTERFERENCE (INTERMOD) STUDIES

An intermodulation or interference study is generally required when a new wireless operator wants to co-locate at or near an existing cell site.   In addition, various jurisdictions also require an intermod study to be completed to demonstrate that the wireless operators will not interfere with public safety frequencies.  Dtech can help by performing an extensive analysis to determine if the new transmitter would cause interference to the incumbent system or public safety systems.  A detailed report certified by a licensed professional engineer outlining the results and interference mitigation measures, if necessary, will be provided.  Please contact us for a proposal and required information to complete the intermod study.

ON-SITE RF SURVEYS

Typically, when sites are approved and built, city jurisdictions generally require on-site RF surveys to support and validate the computer simulation studies.  Dtech provides a comprehensive, on-site, RF survey that includes a detailed report which discusses cumulative field-measured RF exposure data in comparison to safety levels, instrumentation used, all wireless operators co-locating at the site, public and occupational accessible areas, photo documentation of the signs and barriers, and determination of FCC compliance or steps to achieve compliance.  All reports bear our Professional Engineering (P.E.) stamp to certify our commitment to quality engineering work.  Whether you are a wireless operator or building owner who needs to comply with FCC and OSHA safety requirements or an individual who has concerns about RF levels from the site across the street, Dtech can help with your specific needs with the right engineering experience, certification and state-of-the-art equipment.

EME EXPERT TESTIMONY

As public concerns over RF exposure continue to rise, Dtech can dramatically improve our client's chances of getting their sites approved by attending council hearings or community meetings as independent experts to explain technical concepts to lay audiences.  An EME study is required prior to the meeting so that we can present our findings and address concerns relating to the specific site.  Our qualifications are generally recognized by city, state and government agencies based on our education, Professional Engineering Licenses, and extensive, relevant experience.  We have testified at hearings and served as an expert witness in United States District Court.

FCC COMPLIANCE REMEDIATION

When cell sites exceed the FCC’s Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) Limits, mitigation actions are required to bring sites into compliance.  Compliance remediation could include posting appropriate RF advisory signs, demarcating and restricting access to over-exposed areas, and ensuring that individuals entering the area must be made fully aware of the potential for RF exposure and has received appropriate RF safety training. For almost 20 years, we have surveyed many thousands of sites throughout the country.  We have come across many barrier solutions and most are usually in disrepair. The typical, plastic barriers are often damaged due to the harsh outdoor weather and high winds.  From experience, we realize that there is nothing on the market that we can readily purchase to build barriers that can withstand the severe outdoor environment. We studied everything from antennas mounts themselves to various other rooftop equipment installations or mounting methods.  We went back to the drawing table and designed, tested and patented our own barrier system.  Dtech barrier stanchions are non-roof penetrating, heavy (up to 72 lbs), and sturdy.  They are made out of galvanized steel and blends in perfectly with the typical antenna mounting sleds.  All barrier installations and mitigation measures are completed in accordance with OSHA safety standards and regulations.  Please contact us for real-world examples of Dtech’s patented barrier solutions.

RF SAFETY AWARENESS TRAINING

RF emission is odorless, invisible and cannot be detectable by the senses alone.  Like a microwave oven heating food, the wireless industry utilizes antennas that emit similar energy that could cause the human body to heat up excessively. This could pose a serious safety hazard if individuals working in RF environments are not properly trained. Are you safe?

To support the explosive growth of the wireless industry, there are hundreds of thousands of sites located on building rooftops, stadiums, light poles, water tanks etc. The wireless operators generally do not own the buildings and structures that support their antennas and subsequently do not have control over site access or control over whether personnel have been properly trained or made fully aware for the potential RF exposure. Based on FCC guidelines, such persons must receive written and/or verbal information regarding safe practices in and around antennas. RF safety awareness training is the single most important aspect of controlling hazardous exposure to RF emissions.  RF signage alone is not sufficient. Ideally, persons should be trained prior to being permitted to access the facility. This could only be achieved through a uniform site management and training system - www.AntennaView.com

• Unified  RF safety training system for workers, building owners and wireless operators
• Designed for technical and non-technical individuals
• Provide 2-tiered safety approach: general RF awareness and site-specific training
• Earn RF awareness training certificate
• Inform individuals of the potential danger of invisible RF radiation
• View sites in 3D model showing invisible RF HotZones (restricted areas)
• Video tours of site-specific RF HotZones
• Provide photo gallery of antennas and potential hazardous working areas
• View or download RF safety maps on mobile devices