Telecommunication regulator Ofcom has agreed to carry out a survey of the levels of radiation being omitted from mobile phone masts and base stations situated on two blocks following a request by WERA.

The association is under taking its biggest single investigation into the masts and has asked Ofcom to carry out the audit to assess the level of radiation from the masts situated on Jewell and Dan Bryant Houses. The masts which are operated by T-Mobile and Orange, have raised concerns by some residents over fears they could have effects on human health, which studies have shown are currently unfounded.
Ofcom monitor masts across the country, as well giving out guidance on the acceptable levels of radiation.
WERA will compile a report and present to members before a vote is taken on the future of the masts.

WERA’s Chair Dave McEvoy explains “We must ensure that we have as much information as possible as well as covering all possibilities, one way of doing this is for Ofcom to carry out an independent audit, which I am pleased to confirm will be taking place in the near future”
The masts and base stations were erected nearly twenty years ago and following pressure of WERA members, the funds now come to the association for estate improvements.

Several studies have taken place over many years and so far all say there is not any known connection to increased cases of cancer or other health problems, the latest study is due out later this year.

Ofcom will be sending a field engineer who will record the levels of radiation at ground level and should provide its findings both online and to the association. WERA will use this information to then give its recommendations on the future of the masts.

Mr McEvoy gave this assurance to residents “We will look at all possibilities before deciding if the masts can stay or should be removed, at a recent meeting, I assured residents that if there is any risk we will do all we can to see them removed. However we must ensure we base these decisions on fact and assess all the evidence available, this audit will give us a pretty clear answer.”

Other external organisations such as the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and British Medical Association have also been contacted for their views on the issues relating to masts output, particularly as they are close to residents homes.

The masts which stand 19 metres tall on the roofs over the blocks are said to give out a diagonal signal which is also weakened by materials such as brick and glass.

WERA expects to publish its findings later this year when residents will be invited to discuss and give their views on the future of the masts.