Samsung Focus Owners Manual

							Health and Safety Information 116
FDA belongs to an interagency working group of the federal
agencies that have responsibility for different aspects of RF
safety to ensure coordinated efforts at the federal level. The
following agencies belong to this working group:
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Environmental Protection Agency
Federal Communications Commission
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
National Telecommunications and Information Administration
The National Institutes of Health participates in some interagency
working group activities, as well.
FDA shares regulatory responsibilities for wireless phones with
the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). All phones that
are sold in the United States must comply with FCC safety
guidelines that limit RF exposure. FCC relies on FDA and other
health agencies for safety questions about wireless phones.
FCC also regulates the base stations that the wireless phone
networks rely upon. While these base stations operate at higher
power than do the wireless phones themselves, the RF
exposures that people get from these base stations are typically
thousands of times lower than those they can get from wireless
phones.
Base stations are thus not the primary subject of the safety
questions discussed in this document.
What are the results of the research done already?
The research done thus far has produced conflicting results, and
many studies have suffered from flaws in their research
methods. Animal experiments investigating the effects of radio
frequency energy (RF) exposures characteristic of wireless
phones have yielded conflicting results that often cannot be
repeated in other laboratories. A few animal studies, however,
have suggested that low levels of RF could accelerate the
development of cancer in laboratory animals.
However, many of the studies that showed increased tumor
development used animals that had been genetically
engineered or treated with cancer-causing chemicals so as to
be pre-disposed to develop cancer in absence of RF exposure.
Other studies exposed the animals to RF for up to 22 hours per
day. These conditions are not similar to the conditions under
which people use wireless phones, so we dont know with
certainty what the results of such studies mean for human
health.
Three large epidemiology studies have been published since
December 2000. Between them, the studies investigated any
possible association between the use of wireless phones and
primary brain cancer, glioma, meningioma, or acoustic neuroma,
tumors of the brain or salivary gland, leukemia, or other cancers. 
						

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None of the studies demonstrated the existence of any harmful
health effects from wireless phones RF exposures.
However, none of the studies can answer questions about
long-term exposures, since the average period of phone use in
these studies was around three years.
What research is needed to decide whether RF exposure 
from wireless phones poses a health risk?
A combination of laboratory studies and epidemiological studies
of people actually using wireless phones would provide some of
the data that are needed. Lifetime animal exposure studies could
be completed in a few years.
However, very large numbers of animals would be needed to
provide reliable proof of a cancer promoting effect if one exists.
Epidemiological studies can provide data that is directly
applicable to human populations, but ten or more years
follow-up may be needed to provide answers about some
health effects, such as cancer.
This is because the interval between the time of exposure to a
cancer-causing agent and the time tumors develop - if they do -
may be many, many years. The interpretation of epidemiological
studies is hampered by difficulties in measuring actual RF
exposure during day-to-day use of wireless phones. Many
factors affect this measurement, such as the angle at which the
phone is held, or which model of phone is used.
What is FDA doing to find out more about the possible 
health effects of wireless phone RF?
FDA is working with the U.S. National Toxicology Program and
with groups of investigators around the world to ensure that high
priority animal studies are conducted to address important
questions about the effects of exposure to radio frequency
energy (RF). FDA has been a leading participant in the World
Health Organization international Electromagnetic Fields (EMF)
Project since its inception in 1996.
An influential result of this work has been the development of a
detailed agenda of research needs that has driven the
establishment of new research programs around the world. The
Project has also helped develop a series of public information
documents on EMF issues.
FDA and Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association
(CTIA) have a formal Cooperative Research and Development
Agreement (CRADA) to do research on wireless phone safety.
FDA provides the scientific oversight, obtaining input from
experts in government, industry, and academic organizations.
CTIA-funded research is conducted through contracts to
independent investigators. The initial research will include both
laboratory studies and studies of wireless phone users. The
CRADA will also include a broad assessment of additional 
						

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research needs in the context of the latest research
developments around the world.
What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to radio 
frequency energy from my wireless phone?
If there is a risk from these products - and at this point we do not
know that there is - it is probably very small. But if you are
concerned about avoiding even potential risks, you can take a
few simple steps to minimize your exposure to radio frequency
energy (RF).
Since time is a key factor in how much exposure a person
receives, reducing the amount of time spent using a wireless
phone will reduce RF exposure.
If you must conduct extended conversations by wireless phone every
day, you could place more distance between your body and the source
of the RF, since the exposure level drops off dramatically with distance.
For example, you could use a headset and carry the wireless phone
away from your body or use a wireless phone connected to a remote
antenna.
Again, the scientific data do not demonstrate that wireless
phones are harmful. But if you are concerned about the RF
exposure from these products, you can use measures like those
described above to reduce your RF exposure from wireless phone
use.
What about children using wireless phones?
The scientific evidence does not show a danger to users of
wireless phones, including children and teenagers. If you want to
take steps to lower exposure to radio frequency energy (RF), the
measures described above would apply to children and
teenagers using wireless phones. Reducing the time of wireless
phone use and increasing the distance between the user and the
RF source will reduce RF exposure.
Some groups sponsored by other national governments have
advised that children be discouraged from using wireless phones
at all. For example, the government in the United Kingdom
distributed leaflets containing such a recommendation in
December 2000.
They noted that no evidence exists that using a wireless phone
causes brain tumors or other ill effects. Their recommendation to
limit wireless phone use by children was strictly precautionary; it
was not based on scientific evidence that any health hazard
exists.
Do hands-free kits for wireless phones reduce 
risks from exposure to RF emissions?
Since there are no known risks from exposure to RF emissions
from wireless phones, there is no reason to believe that
hands-free kits reduce risks. Hands-free kits can be used with
wireless phones for convenience and comfort. These systems 
						

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reduce the absorption of RF energy in the head because the
phone, which is the source of the RF emissions, will not be
placed against the head. On the other hand, if the phone is
mounted against the waist or other part of the body during use,
then that part of the body will absorb more RF energy. Wireless
phones marketed in the U.S. are required to meet safety
requirements regardless of whether they are used against the
head or against the body. Either configuration should result in
compliance with the safety limit.
Do wireless phone accessories that claim to shield 
the head from RF radiation work?
Since there are no known risks from exposure to RF emissions
from wireless phones, there is no reason to believe that
accessories that claim to shield the head from those emissions
reduce risks. Some products that claim to shield the user from RF
absorption use special phone cases, while others involve nothing
more than a metallic accessory attached to the phone.
Studies have shown that these products generally do not work as
advertised. Unlike “hand-free” kits, these so-called “shields”
may interfere with proper operation of the phone. The phone may
be forced to boost its power to compensate, leading to an
increase in RF absorption. In February 2002, the Federal trade
Commission (FTC) charged two companies that sold devices thatclaimed to protect wireless phone users from radiation with
making false and unsubstantiated claims.
According to FTC, these defendants lacked a reasonable basis to
substantiate their claim.
What about wireless phone interference with 
medical equipment?
Radio frequency energy (RF) from wireless phones can interact
with some electronic devices. For this reason, FDA helped
develop a detailed test method to measure electromagnetic
interference (EMI) of implanted cardiac pacemakers and
defibrillators from wireless telephones. This test method is now
part of a standard sponsored by the Association for the
Advancement of Medical instrumentation (AAMI). The final draft,
a joint effort by FDA, medical device manufacturers, and many
other groups, was completed in late 2000. This standard will
allow manufacturers to ensure that cardiac pacemakers and
defibrillators are safe from wireless phone EMI. FDA has tested
wireless phones and helped develop a voluntary standard
sponsored by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers
(IEEE). This standard specifies test methods and performance
requirements for hearing aids and wireless phones so that no
interference occurs when a person uses a compatible phone and
a compatible hearing aid at the same time. This standard was
approved by the IEEE in 2000. 
						

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FDA continues to monitor the use of wireless phones for possible
interactions with other medical devices. Should harmful
interference be found to occur, FDA will conduct testing to assess
the interference and work to resolve the problem.
Additional information on the safety of RF exposures from various
sources can be obtained from the following organizations
(Updated 1/1/2010):
FCC RF Safety Program:http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety/
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):http://www.epa.gov/radiation/
Occupational Safety and Health Administrations (OSHA):http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/radiofrequencyradiation/index.html
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH):http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/
World Health Organization (WHO):http://www.who.int/peh-emf/
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection:http://www.icnirp.de
Health Protection Agency:http://www.hpa.org.uk/radiation
US Food and Drug Administration:http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/
RadiationEmittingProductsandProcedures/HomeBusinessandEntertainment/CellPhones/default.htm
Road Safety
Your wireless phone gives you the powerful ability to
communicate by voice, almost anywhere, anytime. But an
important responsibility accompanies the benefits of wireless
phones, one that every user must uphold. Always comply with
road safety regulations on using a mobile phone while driving.
Using a mobile phone while driving can be dangerous.
When driving a car, driving is your first responsibility. When using
your wireless phone behind the wheel of a car, practice good
common sense and remember the following tips:
1.Get to know your wireless phone and its features, such as
speed dial and redial. If available, these features help you
to place your call without taking your attention off the road.
2.When available, use a hands-free device. If possible, add
an additional layer of convenience and safety to your
wireless phone with one of the many hands free
accessories available today. 
						

							1213.
Position your wireless phone within easy reach. Be able to
access your wireless phone without removing your eyes
from the road. If you get an incoming call at an
inconvenient time, let your voice mail answer it for you.
4.Let the person you are speaking with know you are driving.
Suspend the call in heavy traffic or hazardous weather
conditions. Rain, sleet, snow, ice and even heavy traffic
can be hazardous.
5.Do not take notes or look up phone numbers while driving.
Jotting down a “to do” list or flipping through your address
book takes attention away from your primary
responsibility, driving safely.
6.Dial sensibly and assess the traffic; if possible, place calls
when you are not moving or before pulling into traffic. Try
to plan calls when your car will be stationary. If you need to
make a call, dial only a few numbers, check the road and
your mirrors, then continue.
7.Do not engage in stressful or emotional conversations that
may be distracting. Make people you are talking with
aware you are driving and suspend conversations that
have the potential to divert your attention from the road.
8.Use your wireless phone to call for help. Dial 9-1-1 or other
local emergency number in the case of fire, traffic accident
or medical emergencies.
9.Use your wireless phone to help others in emergencies. If
you see an auto accident, crime in progress or other
serious emergency where lives are in danger, call 9-1-1 or
other local emergency number, as you would want others
to do for you.
10.Call roadside assistance or a special non-emergency
wireless assistance number when necessary. If you see a
broken-down vehicle posing no serious hazard, a broken
traffic signal, a minor traffic accident where no one
appears injured, or a vehicle you know to be stolen, call
roadside assistance or other special non-emergency
number. 
						

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“The wireless industry reminds you to use your phone safely when
driving.”
For more information, please call 1-888-901-SAFE, or visit our
web-sitewww.ctia.org.
Important!:If you are using a handset other than a standard numeric keypad,please call 1-888-901-7233.
Provided by the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet
Association.
Responsible Listening
Caution!:Avoid potential hearing loss.
Damage to hearing occurs when a person is exposed to loud
sounds over time. The risk of hearing loss increases as sound is
played louder and for longer durations. Prolonged exposure to
loud sounds (including music) is the most common cause of
preventable hearing loss. Some scientific research suggests that
using portable audio devices, such as portable music players and
cellular telephones, at high volume settings for long durations
may lead to permanent noise-induced hearing loss. This includes
the use of headphones (including headsets, earbuds, and
Bluetooth or other wireless devices). Exposure to very loud sound
has also been associated in some studies with tinnitus (a ringing
in the ear), hypersensitivity to sound and distorted hearing.Individual susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss and
potential hearing problem varies. Additionally, the amount of
sound produced by a portable audio device varies depending on
the nature of the sound, the device settings, and the headphones
that are used. As a result, there is no single volume setting that is
appropriate for everyone or for every combination of sound,
settings and equipment.
You should follow some commonsense recommendations when
using any portable audio device:
Always turn the volume down before plugging the earphones into an
audio source.
Set the volume in a quiet environment and select the lowest volume at
which you can hear adequately.
When using headphones, turn the volume down if you cannot hear the
people speaking near you or if the person sitting next to you can hear
what you are listening to.
Do not turn the volume up to block out noisy surroundings. If you
choose to listen to your portable device in a noisy environment, use
noise-cancelling headphones to block out background environmental
noise. By blocking background environment noise, noise cancelling
headphones should allow you to hear the music at lower volumes than
when using earbuds.
Limit the amount of time you listen. As the volume increases, less time
is required before you hearing could be affected. 
						

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Avoid using headphones after exposure to extremely loud noises, such
as rock concerts, that might cause temporary hearing loss. Temporary
hearing loss might cause unsafe volumes to sound normal.
Do not listen at any volume that causes you discomfort. If you
experience ringing in your ears, hear muffled speech or experience
any temporary hearing difficulty after listening to your portable audio
device, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
You can obtain additional information on this subject from the
following sources:
American Academy of Audiology
11730 Plaza American Drive, Suite 300
Reston, VA 20190
Voice: (800) 222-2336
Email: [email protected]
Internet:
http://www.audiology.orgNational Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
National Institutes of Health
31 Center Drive, MSC 2320
Bethesda, MD 20892-2320
Email: [email protected]
Internet:
http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
395 E Street, S.W.
Suite 9200
Patriots Plaza Building
Washington, DC 20201
Voice: 1-800-35-NIOSH (1-800-356-4647)
1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636)
Outside the U.S. 513-533-8328
Email: [email protected]
Internet:
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/noise/default.html
1-888-232-6348 TTY 
						

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Operating Environment
Remember to follow any special regulations in force in any area
and always switch your phone off whenever it is forbidden to use
it, or when it may cause interference or danger.
When connecting the phone or any accessory to another device,
read its users guide for detailed safety instructions. Do not
connect incompatible products.
As with other mobile radio transmitting equipment, users are
advised that for the satisfactory operation of the equipment and
for the safety of personnel, it is recommended that the
equipment should only be used in the normal operating position
(held to your ear with the antenna pointing over your shoulder if
you are using an external antenna).
Using Your Phone Near Other Electronic Devices
Most modern electronic equipment is shielded from radio
frequency (RF) signals. However, certain electronic equipment
may not be shielded against the RF signals from your wireless
phone. Consult the manufacturer to discuss alternatives.
Implantable Medical Devices
A minimum separation of six (6) inches should be maintained
between a handheld wireless phone and an implantable medical
device, such as a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter
defibrillator, to avoid potential interference with the device.Persons
who have such devices:
Should ALWAYS keep the phone more than six (6) inches from their
implantable medical device when the phone is turned ON;
Should not carry the phone in a breast pocket;
Should use the ear opposite the implantable medical device to
minimize the potential for interference;
Should turn the phone OFF immediately if there is any reason to
suspect that interference is taking place;
Should read and follow the directions from the manufacturer of your
implantable medical device. If you have any questions about using
your wireless phone with such a device, consult your health care
provider.
For more information see:
http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety/rf-faqs.html
FCC Hearing-Aid Compatibility (HAC) 
Regulations for Wireless Devices
On July 10, 2003, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) Report and Order in WT Docket 01-309 modified the
exception of wireless phones under the Hearing Aid Compatibility
Act of 1988 (HAC Act) to require digital wireless phones be
compatible with hearing-aids. 
						

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The intent of the HAC Act is to ensure reasonable access to
telecommunications services for persons with hearing
disabilities.
While some wireless phones are used near some hearing devices
(hearing aids and cochlear implants), users may detect a
buzzing, humming, or whining noise. Some hearing devices are
more immune than others to this interference noise, and phones
also vary in the amount of interference they generate.
The wireless telephone industry has developed a rating system
for wireless phones, to assist hearing device users find phones
that may be compatible with their hearing devices. Not all phones
have been rated. Phones that are rated have the rating on their
box or a label located on the box.
The ratings are not guarantees. Results will vary depending on
the users hearing device and hearing loss. If your hearing device
happens to be vulnerable to interference, you may not be able to
use a rated phone successfully. Trying out the phone with your
hearing device is the best way to evaluate it for your personal
needs.
M-Ratings: Phones rated M3 or M4 meet FCC requirements and
are likely to generate less interference to hearing devices than
phones that are not labeled. M4 is the better/higher of the two
ratings.
T-Ratings: Phones rated T3 or T4 meet FCC requirements and are
likely to generate less interference to hearing devices than
phones that are not labeled. T4 is the better/higher of the two
ratings.
Hearing devices may also be rated. Your hearing device
manufacturer or hearing health professional may help you find
this rating. Higher ratings mean that the hearing device is
relatively immune to interference noise. The hearing aid and
wireless phone rating values are then added together.
A sum of 5 is considered acceptable for normal use. A sum of 6
is considered for best use.
In the above example, if a hearing aid meets the M2 level rating
and the wireless phone meets the M3 level rating, the sum of the
two values equal M5. This is synonymous for T ratings. This
should provide the hearing aid user with “normal usage” while
M3                 +                    M2         =     5T3                 +                    T2         =     5