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The language used by the Health Protection Agency to warn about the unknowns of wireless internet technology is being used by a council to press for a temporary WiFi blackout in schools. Like the HPA, which is to probe into the technology next year, the committee of Haringey council urged a “precautionary approach” to WiFi, because of its potential risks to children and teachers. The London council’s committee has recommended that no new WiFi systems be installed and that existing ones be dismantled, pending “full consultation with parents and schools,” The Independent reported. The move is likely to be welcomed by the Professional Association of Teachers, which has called for more scrutiny on the effects of WiFi, despite BECTA’s verdict that it poses “no appreciable risk to children.” But the PAT has pointed out that the potential effects of electromagnetic radiation are being taken more seriously abroad: WiFi systems should not be installed in schools, according to Austrian and Bavarian authorities. The Health Protection Agency says the concern about the nascent technology is grounds for closer investigation: it is currently talking to experts and affected parties about a review. To this end, the BBC has reported the agency will hold a two-day meeting of experts on electrosensitivity with a “political and scientific remit” early next year. And recognising the fears, the Royal Commission on Environment Pollution has now added “the electromagnetic environment” to its list of issues worthy of potential study and disclosure to Parliament. Both industry and the public are invited to tell the Commission whether WiFi constitutes “a crucial environmental issue facing the UK and the world,” which is its remit. Sir John Lawton, its chairman, said: “To help the Commission decide what we should investigate, we very much want to hear views about each of these topics, and whether they are appropriate.” It is understood that the recommendation by Haringey council’s committee goes to the council's cabinet for a decision on Thursday. Jul 25, 2007 Email this article Printer friendly page Previous Page
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