Technological evolution in Italy takes an important step forward with the adaptation of the limits of electromagnetic fields, essential for the implementation and development of 5G infrastructures. With the recent approval of law 214/2023, Italy raises the limits of electromagnetic fields to 15 V/m, a change that aims to significantly strengthen the 5G network in the country. The increase in emission limits came into force today, 29 April 2024,
Italy raises the limits of electromagnetic fields: implications of increasing the limits
Increasing the limits of electromagnetic fields will allow a wider diffusion and enhancement of 5G technologies. This will happen through the optimization of the use of the frequency spectrum, as indicated in the new provisions of the Electronic Communications Code. These changes, in line with the Technical Standard CEI 211-10, aim to ensure an equitable distribution of the electromagnetic space and an effective application of the technologies.
Italy raises the limits of electromagnetic fields: benefits for operators and the economy
Thanks to these new regulations, mobile operators will have the opportunity to modify and improve their network infrastructures. This will not only increase the capacity and quality of the network service but will also stimulate greater competitiveness in the telecommunications sector in Italy. The 5G economy, which includes sectors such as the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous mobility and smart cities, will directly benefit from these infrastructure improvements, promoting a positive economic impact on a national scale.
International and Italian regulations
The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) is the reference body at an international level for defining exposure limits to electromagnetic fields. Recognized by the World Health Organization, ICNIRP published its updated guidelines for exposure to electromagnetic fields in a frequency range from 100 kHz to 300 GHz in March 2020. These guidelines update those of 1998, establishing an exposure limit of 61 V/m, equivalent to approximately 10 W/m². These limits are based on the precautionary principle, applying a reduction factor of the power density of electromagnetic fields 50 times higher than the threshold where harmful thermal effects could occur.
The European regulatory framework on limiting exposure to electromagnetic fields is outlined by the Council Recommendation of 12 July 1999 (1999/519/EC), which covers frequencies from 0Hz to 300 GHz. This recommendation establishes reference levels for electric fields , magnetic and electromagnetic based on the results of studies by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), initially published in 1998 and updated in March 2020. For example, the suggested limits are 41.25 V/m for telephones mobile devices operating at 900 MHz and 61 V/m for microwave ovens at 2.4 GHz. Furthermore, the Recommendation gives Member States the freedom to adopt more restrictive levels of protection.
In Italy, however, the limits of exposure to electromagnetic fields are regulated by specific regulations which include the Prime Ministerial Decree of 8 July 2003, subsequently amended by legislative decree no. 179 of 2012. This established differentiated limits based on frequencies: for example, the exposure limit is 60 V/m for frequencies from 0.1 MHz to 3 MHz, 20 V/m for frequencies from 3 MHz to 3 GHz, and 40 V/m for frequencies from 3 to 300 GHz. An “attention value” of 6 V/m is also introduced for places where people stay for more than 4 hours a day and a “quality objective” of 6 V/m for open spaces in urban areas. These values were significantly more restrictive than the ICNIRP guidelines.
Despite the recent increase, the Italian limit for exposure to electromagnetic fields remains lower than that of other European countries such as France, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Spain and Greece.
Transition support and resources
To assist operators and stakeholders involved in the new regulations, the Ministry has developed a FAQ section on its website. This online resource provides detailed answers to frequently asked questions regarding the implementation of the new limits and offers a direct channel for resolving any doubts or concerns.
The adjustment of electromagnetic field limits in Italy represents a significant turning point for the adoption of 5G and its advanced applications. With these changes, Italy positions itself as a leader in promoting advanced communications technologies, with expected benefits both in terms of technological improvements and economic growth.