New York State United Teachers

2017 Resolution 22 Hazards of Wireless Radiation Emission

Whereas, abundant research links health and behavioral effects from exposure to wireless radiation, which can cause biological effects, including damage to cells and DNA, even at low levels.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer of the World Health Organization recently classified wireless radiation as possibly carcinogenic to humans. Numerous animal studies have shown neurological effects, including behavioral disorders that may lead to long-term health consequences. (See links to research at:  http://grassrootsinfo.org/emergingscience.php); and

Whereas, it is common practice for schools and businesses to replace wired technologies with wireless technologies; and

Whereas, wireless technology is commonly considered the preferred “wave of the future” and is readily accepted without health concern; and

Whereas, members want to protect their own health; and

Whereas, wired technology reduces wireless radiation by 100 percent; and

Whereas, turning routers off when not in use and setting wireless devices to safe modes significantly reduces emission of wireless radiation; and

Whereas, due to negative health effects, warning signs for microwave use are required in hospitals and other settings; and

Whereas, carcinogenic effects from exposure to wireless radiation may not present for many years; therefore be it

RESOLVED, that NYSUT develop and distribute educational materials for members on the hazards of wireless radiation and best practices for safe alternatives to wireless connections, e.g., wired connections; and be it further

RESOLVED, that NYSUT educate its members on the practice of shutting off/unplugging routers and setting wireless devices, e.g., tablets and mobile phones, to safer modes; and be it further

RESOLVED, that NYSUT (in order to reduce exposure of wireless radiation emissions to its members) encourage locals to negotiate contract language requiring districts/employers to: (1) put wireless routers only where human exposure is reduced, (2) disclose the placement of active wireless routers to their employees and (3) allow employees access/permission to shut routers off when not in use.