Scientists: no one knows the real risks of Wi-Fi

‘The research hasn’t been done. Therefore we cannot assume that there are no effects,’ Professor Dennis Henshaw, professor of human radiation at Bristol University told the Independent on Sunday (IoS).

‘I would be in favour of an inquiry into the dangers of Wi-Fi,’ he continued. ‘This technology is being wheeled out without any checks and balances.’

Concerns over the health effects of the electromagnetic fields generated by Wi-Fi devices are beginning to mount following news that the chairman of the Health Protection Agency, Sir William Stewart, has called for an official investigation.

On Sunday, the IoS revealed that Professor Lawrie Challis, the head of the Government’s committee on mobile phone safety, has warned children against placing Wi-Fi enabled laptops on their laps.

Professor Alan Preece, also from Bristol University, urged caution:
‘No one is really aware of what we are dealing with,’ he said. ‘The Department for Trade and Industry needs to take the lead and do some investigation.’

This article first appeared in the Ecologist April 2007