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Cell Phone Safety Hazards

In the early 21st century, people use cell phones throughout the day. Increasingly, consumers are choosing to disconnect their home landline phone service and use only their cell phones for communicating. The portability and added features of today's cell phones make them attractive and convenient. However, cell phone owners should be aware of potential safety hazards that come with prolonged cell phone usage.

  1. Neurological Health Concerns

    • Several studies from 2005 to 2009, though inconclusive, have pointed to potential neurological problems following prolonged exposure to microwave radiation from cell phone use. The greatest of these risks cited involve brain tumor formation, though this condition appears rare. Dr. Olle Johannson, a professor of neuroscience from Sweden, has studied the effects of cell phones on humans for since the early 1990s. He states that brain tumor concerns pale in comparison to concerns for other possible neurological effects from long-term exposure to cell phones. Sleep disturbances, reduced learning capacity and concentration difficulties can develop, according to Dr. Johannson. Researchers believe more studies on possible neurlogical damage from prolonged cell phone use need to be undertaken.

    Gas Station Hazards

    • Signs at gas stations warn not to use cell phones while pumping gas. The reason for this warning stems from the concern of spark discharge ignited from the cell phone near gas vapors emitted from the pump and fuel tank. The cell phone can potentially create a spark from pressing buttons, disconnecting the battery, vibrating mode in the phone, and electrostatic discharge. Actual chances of cell phones causing fires or explosions at gas stations appear remote according to a Motorola study in 1999. The study stated that the car itself posed a greater risk of causing a fire than having a cell phone present, however.

    Cell Phone Battery Hazards

    • Lithium batteries found in most cell phones carry a lot of energy for their small package. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) advises consumers to treat cell phone batteries with care, because they are more sensitive to stress than alkaline batteries found in many other electronic products. Cell phone explosions, though rare, have been linked to shorts in these batteries. The CPSC advises not to allow a cell phone battery to come in contact with metal objects. They also suggest throwing damaged batteries away if they are punctured, crushed or experience intense pressure. Damaged lithium batteries can have an internal short-circuit and cause an explosion or fire from overheating. Dispose of batteries according to the manufacturer's suggestions, or check on battery recycle centers in your community.

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