The Compatibility of Man in the Microwave Environment

The behavior of the human body in response to microwave irradiation is complex. The conversion of microwave energy into heat is a principal mode of damage to living organisms, especially to the eyes, but much recent research supports the view that non-thermal effects are substantive. Russian workers continue to report a wider variety of effects than American workers, and they are more concerned with the effect of microwave fields on information storage in living systems. This greater concern is reflected in the published Russian exposure limits, which are lower than the limits generally used in this country. Organizations whose personnel are exposed to microwave fields are urged to promulgate, and observe, suitable safety regulations.