Straight Talk About the Dangers of
Radio Frequency Radiation on Kids

Nasui claims a moral obligation to address health concerns

CHICAGO, IL (September 15, 2005) - Dorel Nasui, CEO of American International Radio, issued a statement today calling for discussion on the growing controversy surrounding the Radio Frequency (RF) radiation hazard of high power 2-way radio data communication solutions on school buses. "Solution providers must move out of the shadow of indifference and into the sunshine of truthfulness. And the truth is we have a moral obligation to candidly address the questions and the lack of research related to RF radiation and kids," said Nasui.

The Federal Communication Commission and other scientific organizations have shown that the absorption of excessive RF energy can have serious health effects on human beings, especially children. There are a wide variety of possible injuries including cataracts, tumors, skin burns, deep burns, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Despite such distressing symptoms, there exist significant gaps in the scientific research regarding the extent to which current RF guidelines adequately protect children and individuals that are hypersensitive to radiation exposure.

There is even less published research on childhood exposure to RF fields surrounding school buses, which are equipped with high-power 2-way radios used for data transmission, including GPS data. Exposure within the vehicle has been shown to be effectively reduced by the metal body of the bus. However, the radiation exposure outside the vehicle, such as at a bus stop, requires more attention. Certainly, the exposure is multiplied in a schoolyard where dozens of school buses congregate at the same time. "The research needs to be done and the debate needs to happen in the pupil transportation industry," said Nasui. "Until that happens, we have a moral obligation to take precautionary measures and limit exposure of children to RF energy," he continued.

All school bus GPS solutions use some form of RF technology for data transmission. The two main approaches are based on cell phone communication and 2-way radio communication. Cell solutions use significantly less power to transmit data and are, therefore, considered much safer than radio solutions. However, radio solutions are less expensive because they do not require monthly fees associated with cell solutions.

"While we recognize a fiscal desire in the marketplace for a radio solution that transmits GPS data, we believe the technology must be adapted to address the concerns of radiation exposure on children," said Nasui. "As a provider, I have a duty to the consumer to deliver solutions that are as safe as they are superior," he said.