Assessment of Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Field Exposure from Wi-Fi Routers in LAUTECH Campus, Ogbomoso, Nigeria

Wi-Fi routers play a crucial role in enabling internet connectivity within the academic environment. However, there are concerns that radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure from Wi-Fi routers may be hazardous to human health. The main objective of the research is to assess the safety of RF-EMF exposure in educational environments. A total of 14 Wi-Fi routers were randomly selected and investigated across LAUTECH campus using stratified random sampling method. Measurement of the power density and the electric field strength from these routers were taken using a hand-held electrosmog, TES-593, radiofrequency meter. Measurement points were selected at various distances of 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 m from the Wi-Fi routers, representing typical distances between users and routers. At each measurement point, the TES-593 meter was held 1 m above the ground at a fixed position for 30 seconds to record the E-field strength and the power density. The measured power density and the electric field strength, varied from routers to routers depending on their location and the distance of measurement from the routers. The power density recorded for all the Wi-Fi routers investigated ranged from 0.001 to 3.302 W/m2 with a mean of 0.390 W/m2. For all the Wi-Fi routers investigated. The overall exposure levels for the power density decreases with distances for all the routers. The measured electric field strength also decreases with distance ranging from 0.106 to 3.528 V/m with a mean of 0.981 V/m. The measured power densities and the electric field strengths in this research work were comparable and similar with reports from other research work from different environments including educational, residential, and urban settings. The power densities and the electric field strengths recorded were below the 10 W/m2 and 5 V/m recommended by various regulatory agencies respectively. All the Wi-Fi routers considered in this research work were within safety guidelines set by regulatory agencies for the power density and the electric field strength, thus emitting radiations at a level that are considered safe for human exposure within the academic communities. The operation of RF-EMF exposure from Wi-Fi routers in the academic environment of LAUTECH will no pose any potential health risks on staff and students of the institution. The evidence-based insights into potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields from Wi-Fi routers in this research can guide policymakers in establishing safety regulations that will limit exposure levels. It can also inform guidelines on the optimal placement of routers, frequency of usage, and the implementation of periodic monitoring to ensure compliance with international safety standards.