Vodafone transmitters on roofs & other structures
How does Vodafone control RF exposure?
Vodafone utilises various methods to minimise or control exposure to sources of RF EME. These controls include:
RF assessment & design – Sites are designed and transmission equipment positioned with a view to ensure full RF EME compliance and to minimise unnecessary RF exposure.
Engineering – Securing, barricading or other means of restricting access to the site or to areas where RF exposures are beyond the maximum recommended limits.
Signage - Positioning of signage on perimeter fencing/doors, the base of structures or other suitable positions to indicate the presence of RF hazards and safe areas.
Training – Training persons who performing work on RF equipment. This may include general induction, RF awareness, and Working at Heights.
Site management book– Production of a Radiocommunications Site Management Book (RCSMB) which provides important RF safety information for anyone who has to work near Vodafone transmitters. The RCSMB contains site contact details, information on RADHAZ drawings, site access control, and equipment installed at the site and Safe Working Procedure (SWP).
How to read the RADHAZ drawings
Plan and elevation view RADHAZ drawings display horizontal and vertical cross-sections of the emission
patterns from transmitting antenna.
Red and Yellow Zone = No access to public or building maintenance personnel
Yellow Zone = Limited access to specially trained carrier personnel (RF workers)
White Zone = General access
Important – General Public and Maintenance Personnel and staff associated with the building / property do not enter red or yellow zones.
Where do you get the RCSMB (Radiocommunications Site Management Book)?
A copy of the RCSMB is given to the property owner/manager. If you cannot locate the RCSMB from the property owner/manager there is a Vodafone 24 hour contact number, 1800 683 683 that should also be displayed at the entry point to the rooftop or base station. This number is Vodafone’s FMT-NOC (Fault Management Team - Network Operations Centre).
What if I have to work in an RF Hazard Zone?
Prior to undertaking work on/around operational equipment (in areas where high emissions are indicated), the transmitting equipment should be switched OFF and isolated.
In many instances only “powering down” is required. You must contact the Vodafone FMT-NOC on 1800 683 683 to co-ordinate either “switch OFF and isolation” or “powering down”. Wherever “powering down” is utilised, correct procedures for isolation must be followed. The Vodafone FMT-NOC contact will clearly explain required procedures.
Please note that Vodafone Base Station transmitters have power supplies independent of the mains power to the building.
What if there are RF transmitters other than Vodafone’s on the roof?
The RCSMB should show all RF transmitters operating on the site, including other mobile phone carriers and other operators such as paging, emergency services, taxis etc. Site contact details for other operators are shown in the RCSMB.
Personal monitoring devices (e.g. RADMAN) are recommended for use on co-located sites, or where numerous sources of RF radiation (i.e. paging systems, two-way radio etc) are identified. Calibration and correct use of this equipment is essential.