10.2.2 Risk-Based Management
RF radiation safety is fundamentally based on risk management. Rather than assuming that every RF source presents the same hazard, organizations evaluate each installation according to its operating frequency, maximum operating conditions, antenna characteristics, accessibility, and the work or public-occupancy scenarios that may result in exposure.
The risk management process typically consists of five stages:
- identifying RF hazards;
- assessing the associated risks;
- selecting appropriate control measures;
- implementing those controls; and
- monitoring and reviewing their effectiveness.
The process should be undertaken in consultation with workers who may be affected and repeated whenever equipment, operating procedures, work activities, or site conditions change.
10.2.3 Prevention Before Protection
One of the fundamental principles of modern safety management is that hazards should be eliminated or reduced wherever reasonably practicable before relying on administrative procedures or personal protective equipment.
For example, relocating an antenna, reducing transmitter power during maintenance, or installing fixed shielding generally provides a more reliable means of controlling exposure than relying solely on warning signs or worker behavior.
This philosophy is reflected in the hierarchy of control measures, discussed later in this chapter, which gives priority to engineering solutions before administrative controls and personal protective equipment.
10.2.4 Clearly Defined Responsibilities
An effective safety program depends on everyone understanding their responsibilities. Senior management establishes policy, allocates resources, appoints competent personnel, and ensures that the risk-management process is implemented. Engineers design and assess installations, supervisors implement safe work, and workers follow procedures, use controls correctly, and participate in consultation about the hazards affecting their work.
A Responsible Person must be appointed for each Controlled Area. The Responsible Person coordinates access and safe working arrangements, but the appointment does not replace or lessen the duties of the person conducting a business or undertaking, facility manager, facility owner, source owner, or operator.