10 02 22 Report Afsset Scanners Corporels Body Scanners English V6x

Assessment of health risks related to use of the
ProVision 100 "millimetre-wave"" body scanner
Collective expert assessment

REPORT
February 2010
French Agency for Environmental and Occupational Health Safety

253 av. du Gnral Leclerc 94701 Maisons-Alfort
Alfort Cedex
Tel. +33 (0)1.56.29.19.30 Fax +33 (0)1.43.96.37.67
1.43.96.37.67 E-mail afsset@afsset.fr
www.afsset.fr
AFSSET "Body scanner" REPORT
Keywords
Body scanner, "millimetre-wave", exposure, health effect, scanning device, electromagnetic field.
February 2010 Final version page 2

List of participants
RAPPORTEURS
Alain AZOULAY Professor at the Ecole Suprieure d'Electricit (Suplec) Non-ionising
electromagnetic fields, metrology.
Jean-Claude DEBOUZY Director of the Department for research on the "biological effects of
radiation-biophysics" at the French Military Health Service (IRBA-CRSSA) Non-ionising
electromagnetic fields.
Jean-Franois DOR Director of Research Emeritus at the French National Institute for Health
and Medical Research (Inserm) - Non-ionising electromagnetic fields Ultra-violet radiation.
Martine HOURS Researcher at the French National Institute for Research on Transportation and
Safety (Inrets) Non-ionising radiation.
Paolo VECCHIA Director of Research at the Istituto Superiore di Sanit (ISS, Rome, Italy) Non-
ionising radiation.
AFSSET PARTICIPANTS
Scientific coordination
Johanna FITE Director of scientific projects AFSSET
Scientific contribution
Olivier MERCKEL Head of the Research Unit on physical agents, new technologies and major
developments AFSSET
TELLE LAMBERTON Deputy head of the Department for Expertise on environmental and
occupational health (DESET) AFSSET
Secretariat
Sophia SADDOKI AFSSET

CONTENTS
Summary ......................................................................................................................................7
Abbreviations ............................................................................................................................. 12
List of Tables .............................................................................................................................. 13
List of figures ............................................................................................................................. 13
1 Context, purpose and procedures for responding to the solicited

request ........................................................................................................ 14
1.1 Context............................................................................................................................... 14
1.2 Purpose of the request ..................................................................................................... 14
1.3 Scope of the expertise ...................................................................................................... 14
1.4 Procedure for responding to the request ........................................................................ 14
2 Wavelengths above 1 GHz .......................................................................... 16

2.1 Physical properties ........................................................................................................... 16
2.1.1 Wavelength ........................................................................................................................................... 16
2.1.2 Energy emitted ...................................................................................................................................... 17
2.2 Sources of exposure to waves with frequencies greater than 1 GHz ............................ 17
2.3 The biological effects of millimetre waves................................................................... 17
2.3.1 The skin: main area of interaction with millimetre waves ..................................................................... 18
2.3.2 Thermal effects ..................................................................................................................................... 18
2.3.3 Non-thermal biological effects............................................................................................................... 18
2.3.3.1 In vitro study of the effects of millimetre waves ............................................................................................. 19
2.3.3.1.1 Cellular proliferation ...................................................................................................................................... 19
2.3.3.1.2 Gene expression ........................................................................................................................................... 19
2.3.3.1.3 Disturbances to ionic exchange phenomena ................................................................................................. 20
2.3.3.1.4 Modification of biomembranes....................................................................................................................... 20
2.3.3.2 The effects of millimetre waves used in therapy ............................................................................................ 21
2.4 The health effects of waves at frequencies higher than 1 GHz ...................................... 21
2.5 Regulations concerning exposure of the general public to electromagnetic fields ..... 22
3 The Provision 100 body scanner ................................................................ 24

3.1 Presentation of the device ................................................................................................ 24
3.1.1 Manufacturer and distributor ................................................................................................................. 24
3.1.2 Purpose ................................................................................................................................................. 24
3.1.3 Physical parameters ............................................................................................................................. 24
3.1.4 Power emitted ....................................................................................................................................... 25
3.1.5 Inspection capacity ............................................................................................................................... 26
3.2 Operating the portal .......................................................................................................... 26
3.3 Image obtained .................................................................................................................. 29
3.4 Uses of the portal .............................................................................................................. 29
3.5 Other body scanner technologies .................................................................................... 30
3.5.1 X-rays .................................................................................................................................................... 30

3.5.2 Passive devices .................................................................................................................................... 31

3.5.3 T-rays .................................................................................................................................................... 31
4 Evaluation of the exposure of people scanned by the Provision 100

body scanner .............................................................................................. 32
4.1 Technical foreword ........................................................................................................... 32
4.2 Evaluation of electromagnetic field levels....................................................................... 32
4.2.1 Measurements by Apave ...................................................................................................................... 32
4.2.1.1 Materials and method .................................................................................................................................... 32
4.2.1.2 Results of the measurements ........................................................................................................................ 33
4.2.1.3 Evaluation of exposure during a scan ........................................................................................................... 33
4.2.1.4 Conclusion based on the Apave measurements ........................................................................................... 34
4.2.2 Emitech measurements ........................................................................................................................ 34
4.2.2.1 Materials and method .................................................................................................................................... 34
4.2.2.2 Results of the measurements ........................................................................................................................ 35
4.2.2.3 Conclusion based on the Emitech measurements ........................................................................................ 35
4.2.3 Discussion ............................................................................................................................................. 35
4.2.3.1 Scope of the accreditation of the measurement organisations ...................................................................... 35
4.2.3.2 Metrology....................................................................................................................................................... 36
4.2.4 Conclusion concerning the levels of exposure measured .................................................................... 36
4.3 Evaluation of exposure to millimetre waves during use of a body scanner ................. 37
4.3.1 Populations exposed............................................................................................................................. 37
4.3.1.1 Travellers....................................................................................................................................................... 37
4.3.1.2 People working in airports and flight personnel ............................................................................................. 37
4.3.1.3 Security personnel......................................................................................................................................... 37
4.3.2 Exposure scenarios .............................................................................................................................. 38
4.3.3 Conclusion concerning the exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted by the Provision 100
scanner ................................................................................................................................................. 39
5 Evaluation of health risks related to the use of the ProVision 100 ........... 40
5.1 To what depth do millimetre waves emitted by a body scanner penetrate the
body? ................................................................................................................................. 40
5.2 Can the use of a millimetre-wave body scanner cause thermal effects? ...................... 40
5.3 Are there any non-thermal effects? ................................................................................. 41
5.4 Are there any interactions with medical devices? .......................................................... 41
6 Other issues raised by body scanners ....................................................... 42

6.1 Respect for privacy ........................................................................................................... 42
6.2 Respect for individual rights ............................................................................................ 42
7 Conclusions ................................................................................................ 43
8 AFSSET recommendations ......................................................................... 44
9 Bibliography ................................................................................................ 46
9.1 Publications ....................................................................................................................... 46
9.2 Web sites ........................................................................................................................... 48
9.3 Standards .......................................................................................................................... 48

9.4 Legislation and regulations .............................................................................................. 48
ANNEXES ........................................................................................................... 50
Annex 1: Solicited request letter (Translation on the page following) .................................... 51
Annex 2: Effects of millimetre waves used in therapy ............................................................. 54
Annex 3: AFSSAPS opinion on possible interactions between millimetre-wave body
scanners and medical devices (Translation on the following pages) ............................. 57
Annex 4: Summary of public declarations of interest (PDI) of experts, regarding the scope of
the solicited request ........................................................................................................... 61

Summary
The Director General

Maisons-Alfort, France, 15 February 2010
Note
of the French Agency for Environmental and
Occupational Health Safety
Relating to the ProVision 100 "millimetre-wave" body scanner
The mission of the French Agency for Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (AFSSET) is
to assist French authorities in the areas of environmental and occupational health safety and
assess potential health risks.
It provides the competent authorities with all relevant information on these risks, as well as the
expertise and technical support needed to draft legislative and statutory provisions and implement
risk management strategies (Article L. 1336-1 of the French Public Health Code).
Overview
On 19 January 2010, AFSSET received a solicited request from the French Ministry of Ecology,
Energy, Sustainable Development and the Sea, responsible for environmentally-friendly
technologies and negotiations on climate issues, to fill knowledge gaps concerning the health risks
associated with the use of so-called "millimetre-wave" body scanners, such as the ProVision 100,
in airports.
Context
Following the attempted attack on a flight between Amsterdam and Detroit on 25 December 2009,
the French Interior Security Council decided, for the purpose of reinforcing civil aviation security, to
rapidly deploy more powerful imaging equipment than the metal detectors currently being used in
French airports.
Given that the instrument being considered for use in French airports is a ProVision 100 body
scanner using waves within the 24 - 30 GHz frequency band, the collective expertise report only
looked at this model.

At the same time, the French Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety Institute (IRSN) was also asked
to assess the risks associated with the use of X-ray scanners by French citizens passing through
foreign airports that use this technology.
Organisation of the expert appraisal
Considering the deadline for responding to the solicited request, it was dealt with in accordance
with the urgent requests procedure approved by AFSSET and its funding ministries (Health,
Ecology and Work).
AFSSET called upon five expert rapporteurs to contribute to the requested expert appraisal. These
experts were either members of the Committee of Specialised Experts on "physical agents, new
technologies and major developments" or had previously been members of working groups
studying electromagnetic fields. This expert appraisal is therefore the result of the work of a group
of experts with complementary competences that validated its contents during a telephone
conference on 11 February 2010.
The expert appraisal was carried out in compliance with French standard NFX50-110 "Quality in
expert appraisal activities general requirements of competence for expert appraisals (May 2003)"
in order to meet the following criteria: competence, independence, transparency and traceability.
To carry out their work, the experts used scientific and technical data available in the literature on
body scanners, namely those issued by the French Civil Aviation Technical Department (STAC),
and also the results of available measurements.
Summary of the expert appraisal

The ProVision 100 is a body scanner which allows "whole body" images of people to be taken for
security purposes without exposing them to ionizing radiation, the claimed advantages being the
scanner's reliability and reduced intrusiveness when compared to pat-down searches. Its
technology is based on the use of so-called "millimetre" waves, found within the 24 - 30 GHz
frequency band.
Assessment of the exposure of individuals to electromagnetic fields during a scan
The power densities measured during a scan are extremely low, of the order of a few tens to a few
hundred microwatts per square meter (347 W/m according to a measurement report issued by
Apave [1], 640 W/m according to measurements made by the Emitech laboratory [2] and
59.7 W/m according to TSA1 [3]). The measurements carried out by French laboratories did not
allow accurate characterisation of the electromagnetic field inside the scanner, mainly due to the
extremely low signal intensities and also the metrological complexity required. It should be noted
that there is no Cofrac accreditation in France for carrying out measurements in the frequency
band used by this piece of equipment. To obtain reliable results from measurements taken of the
signals emitted, the metrology would need to be more precise.
The exposure of individuals to electromagnetic fields during a scan is very short and does not
exceed 2 seconds.
The data collected from the manufacturers of the scanner and from measurement reports provided
by the STAC indicate that the exposure of individuals to electromagnetic fields produced by
ProVision 100 body scanners is well below that prescribed in current regulations (Decree No.
2002-775 of 3 May 2002).
Assessment of the health risks associated with the use of the ProVision 100 body scanner
The skin is the main area of bodily interaction with the so-called "millimetre" waves. Due to their
short wavelength in particular, these can only penetrate the body to a very shallow depth. They
1 The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was founded following the attacks on September 11,
2001, in order to protect the American transport system and its passengers.

interact with living matter essentially through the absorption of energy by free water in superficial
skin tissues, which could potentially lead to biological effects for higher power densities.
Under normal operating conditions, a "millimetre-wave body scanner of the ProVision 100 type
operates with power densities well below those required (of the order of 1,000 W/m) to induce
tissue heating. Thus, no thermal effect on exposed tissue is expected following a scan.
Many in vitro studies suggest that "millimetre" waves produce biological effects, especially on
membrane-rich organelles or even on ion exchanges. Certain results have led to the hypothesis
that the synthesis and secretion of proteins might be altered and/or stimulated. However, these
effects were observed for power densities well above those emitted by the ProVision 100.
Currently, no mechanism of wave-cell interaction has been identified for the frequency band
studied (24 - 30 GHz).
Based on current knowledge, there is no known health effect associated with exposure to
electromagnetic fields for this frequency band and the power densities used by the ProVision 100
device. Nevertheless there is less documentation available on the health effects of this frequency
band, and it is not possible to make any extrapolations based on data from higher power densities.
In addition, due to improvements in the electromagnetic compatibility of implanted medical devices
(such as pacemakers for example) on the one hand, and the depth of these implanted devices (not
accessible to "millimetre" waves) on the other, no significant incompatibility issues have been
found with use of the ProVision 100 scanner.
Conclusions and recommendations
Conclusions
From the point of view of regulations governing the exposure of individuals to electromagnetic
fields, the values measured for the ProVision 100 "millimetre-wave body scanner are well below
those stipulated in Decree No. 2002-775 [4] (for the frequencies considered, the average power
density over a 2 minute period must be less than 10 W/m).
Furthermore, based on current knowledge regarding the health effects of "millimetre waves", and
on the basis of available technical information on the ProVision 100 device, no proven health risks
to individuals from exposure to electromagnetic fields within the 24 - 30 GHz frequency band have
been found for this type of scanner.
Recommendations
With regard to the installation and implementation of detection equipment in French airports,
AFSSET recommends:
continuing to collect information on the implementation of passive technologies, for
example, and comparing their performance and possibilities for deployment with so-called
"millimetre" techniques.
With regard to guaranteeing the compliance and safety of "millimetre-wave" body scanners
In order to ensure that these instruments function correctly and also to ensure low exposure levels
for the public, AFSSET recommends:
introducing regular checks for all instruments on the market;
complementing these checks with regular in situ monitoring of instruments in operation, to
ensure that they are functioning correctly;
ensuring that newly installed detection equipment complies with conditions and exposure
levels equivalent to or below those described in the report accompanying this opinion.

With regard to the characterisation of the exposure of individuals

In order to improve the metrology of "millimetre" waves emitted by body scanners, AFSSET
recommends:
drafting a standardised measurement protocol which makes it possible to provide
representative and accurate evaluation of exposure of scanned individuals;
obtaining precise instrument characteristics (maximum power produced by the emitting
antennas, frequencies used, scanning sequences, etc.) from body scanner manufacturers,
which will allow the theoretical maximum exposure of individuals scanned to be compared
with the actual values measured;
requesting that manufacturers of body scanners introduce a specific verification mode for
all instruments, that allows both the frequency scanning and sequential scanning of the
antennas to be placed on pause, so that the electromagnetic field can be measured more
easily.
With regard to studies and research into the biological and health effects of "millimetre"
waves
In order to gain further scientific knowledge of the potential effects of "millimetre" waves, AFSSET
recommends:
promoting research into the biological effects of electromagnetic fields (notably into the
effects of long-term chronic exposure, the effects associated with multiple exposure and
into the different types of cellular stresses);
promoting research into the biological effects of "millimetre" waves on the cornea and
epithelial skin tissues, which are the tissues directly exposed to this type of waves;
promoting research into the health effects of electromagnetic fields, especially the long-
term effects;
promoting research into the health effects of "millimetre" waves in population groups
exposed to high power densities.
With regard to information for the public and the users of detection devices
In order to ensure that the public is adequately informed, AFSSET recommends:
informing all people concerned (and in particular airport personnel if they are obliged to
pass through the device many times a day) about "millimetrewave body scanner
technology, by providing them with easily understood and readily accessible explanations
at airport check-points, close to detection devices, as well as information confirming that the
instruments are functioning correctly.
Moreover, AFSSET also recommends:

systematically recording undesirable incidents associated with individuals passing through
scanners to provide feedback on the use of this device: for instance, on equipment failure,
potential incidents that could affect individuals wearing active implanted medical devices,
travellers' reactions, etc.;
promoting automatic detection procedures when deploying such devices, if their
performance proves to be satisfactory in tests carried out by the Directorate General of Civil
Aviation.

Four copies produced,
The Director General
References:
[1] Apave. (2008). RF/DIV/130 - Mesures des champs lectromagntiques au niveau dun sas
ondes millimtriques ProVision 100 (Electromagnetic field measurements for the ProVision 100
millimeter wave scanner).
[2] Emitech. (2010). Test report R-032-PTA-10-100225-1.
[3] Transportation Security Administration (TSA). (2009). TSA Whole Body Imaging. Version dated
23 July 2009, downloadable from the following address:
http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/privacy/privacy_pia_tsa_wbiupdate.pdf
[4] Decree No. 2002-775 of 3 May 2002 in accordance with 12 of article L.32 of the postal and
telecommunications code and relating to the public exposure limit values to electromagnetic fields
emitted by equipment used within the telecommunications network or by radio installations, NOR:
INDI0220135D, JORF of 5 May 2002, pages 8624 to 8627.

Abbreviations
AFSSAPS: Agence franaise de scurit sanitaire des produits de sant [French Health Products
Safety Agency]
AFSSET: Agence franaise de scurit sanitaire de lenvironnement et du travail [French Agency
for Environmental and Occupational Health Safety]
ANFR: Agence Nationale des Frquences [French Radio Frequency Authority]
AV: Action value
CNIL: Commission Nationale de l'Informatique et des Liberts [French Commission for the
protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data]
CNS: Central Nervous System
COFRAC: Comit Franais d'Accrditation [French Accreditation Committee]
CPA: Cyclophosphamide
DGAC: Direction Gnrale de lAviation Civile [Directorate General for Civil Aviation]
DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid
EIRP: Effective Isotropic Radiated Power
EPA: Environmental Protection Agency
GHz: GigaHertz
ICNIRP: International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection
IRSN: Institut de Radioprotection et de Sret Nuclaire [Radio protection and Nuclear Safety
Institute]
ITU: International Telecommunications Union
PEL: Permissible Exposure Limit)
PD: Power density
PS: Phosphatidylserine
ROS: Reactive Oxygen Species
SAR: Specific Absorption Rate
SCENIHR: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks
STAC: Service technique de laviation civile [Civil Aviation Technical Department]
TSA: Transport Security Administration
WHO: World Health Organisation

List of Tables
Table 1: Breakdown of the radiofrequency spectrum into bands by characteristics _____ 16
Table 2: Physical characteristics of the Provision 100 ______________________________ 25
Table 3: Comparison between effective exposure values measured by Apave in a
Provision 100 detection portal and recommendations for the public ______________ 34
Table 4: Comparison between the values of the electromagnetic fields measured by Emitech
in a Provision 100 detection portal and recommendations for protection of the public 35
Table 5: Comparison of total accumulated exposure to millimetre waves related to the use
of a body scanner in an airport for three different scenarios _____________________ 38
Table 6: Depth of penetration in human tissues of the electromagnetic radiation and power
density of radiation emitted by common consumer devices compared to the millimetre-
wave body scanner _______________________________________________________ 40
List of figures
Figure 1: Photo of a ProVision 100 portal ________________________________________ 24
Figure 2: Symbolic representation of the power radiated by different sources of
radiofrequencies _________________________________________________________ 26
Figure 3: View from above the scanner __________________________________________ 27
Figure 4: Diagram of the operating cycle of a body scanner _________________________ 28
Figure 5: Image obtained with a Provision 100 portal _______________________________ 29
Figure 6: Deployment of ProVision 100 portals in 19 American airports _______________ 30
Figure 7: Measurements of electromagnetic fields taken by Apave in the detection chamber
of the portal _____________________________________________________________ 33
Figure 8: Mean values (in V/m) of the electromagnetic field at several distances from the
Provision 100 scanner ____________________________________________________ 38
Figure 9: Comparison of power densities (mW/cm) emitted (measured at 1 cm) by various
common consumer devices and a millimetre-wave body scanner ________________ 41

1 Context, purpose and procedures for

responding to the solicited request
1.1 Context
Following the attempted attack on a flight between Amsterdam and Detroit on 25 December 2009,
the French Interior Security Council decided to reinforce civil aviation security through the rapid
deployment of more powerful imaging equipment than the metal detectors currently being used in
French airports.
The equipment being considered for a trial phase is a "millimetre-wave" scanning device such as
the Provision 100 manufactured by the L3 Communications Co.
In 2008 the European Commission published a call for offers for the installation of body scanners
in airports, following an initiative of the European Parliament [Internet site of the European
commission]. The working group involved was to publish a report on the subject in the spring of
2010. This report was to be used as a basis for debate by the European Parliament concerning,
among other subjects, the possible widespread deployment of body scanners in airports.
The French parliament was scheduled to discuss the projected bill concerning policy and
programming for national security (OPSI - loi d'orientation et de programmation pour la
performance de la scurit intrieure) (nos. 1697-1861-2 to 71) on 9 February 2010 [Internet site of
the French parliament]. This project was intended to promote the use of new technologies to
counter violence.
1.2 Purpose of the request
The French Agency for Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (AFSSET) received a
request from the Ministry for Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Development and the Sea, responsible
for environmentally-friendly technologies and global climate negotiations, for an assessment of
health risks related to the use of "millimetre-wave" body scanners of the ProVision 100 type in
airports (see solicited request letter of 19 January 2010 in Annex 1).
1.3 Scope of the expertise
In response to this request, the collective expertise undertaken by AFSSET only concerned body
scanners using so-called "millimetre-waves" operating in the 24 to 30 GHz frequency band.
Given that the equipment being considered for French airports is a Provision 100 body scanner
using so-called "millimetre-waves" in the 24 to 30 GHz frequency band, the collective expertise
report only covered this particular device.
At the same time the French Institute for Radio Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN) was asked to
assess risks related to the use of x-ray scanners which might affect French citizens passing
through foreign airports which use this technology (France, in compliance with its public health
code, should not in principle allow this kind of device to be used) (see IRSN/DRPH report no.
2010-03).
1.4 Procedure for responding to the request
Considering the deadline for the expected response, this request was dealt with in accordance with
the urgent solicited request procedure approved by AFSSET and its funding ministries (Health,
Ecology and Work).
These experts were either members of the expert committee (CES) on "Physical agents, new
technologies and major developments" or had been part of previous working groups investigating
electromagnetic fields. The experts used a common set of documentation for their expertise. The
expertise was thus provided by a group of experts with complementary professional knowledge,
who validated the contents of this report during a telephone conference on 11 February 2010.

The expertise was carried out in compliance with French standard NF X 50-110 "Quality in
expertise activities general requirements of competence for expert appraisals (May 2003)" in
order to meet the following criteria: competence, independence, transparency and traceability.
For the work, the experts used the scientific and technical data available in the literature on body
scanners, namely those issued by the Civil Aviation Technical Department (STAC) and also the
results of available measurements.

2 Wavelengths above 1 GHz

This section describes the physical properties of the so-called millimetre frequency bands, the
sources emitting them, their potential effects on health and the specific regulations covering these
frequencies.
2.1 Physical properties
2.1.1 Wavelength
The Provision 100 scanner, which operates in the 24-30 GHz frequency band, is at the boundary
between the so-called millimetre and centimetre frequency bands, whose frequencies
correspond to wavelengths of 1 cm to 1.25 cm (the frequency is inversely proportional to the
wavelength).
Millimetre waves, i.e. those whose wavelength can be measured in millimetres, are in the
frequency band between 30 and 300 GHz. Applications for this range of frequencies and longer
wavelengths, measured in centimetres, have been developed for detection, telecommunications
and crowd dispersal systems.
The "millimetre-wave" scanner that is the subject of this report actually uses frequencies between 24
24 and 30 GHz that are classified by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) as centimetre
centimetre waves (see
Table 1).
Table 1: Breakdown of the radiofrequency spectrum into bands by characteristics
Wavelength in a Names attributed to Electromagnetic

Frequency band
vacuum the waves/frequencies spectrum range
0 Hz Infinite Static field Continuous emission
Extremely low
3-300 Hz 1000 km-100 000 km
frequencies (ELF)
Low frequencies
Ultra low frequencies
300 Hz3 kHz 100 km-1000 km
(ULF)
Myriametre waves, very

3 kHz-30 kHz 10 km-100 km
low frequencies (VLF)
Kilometre waves or long
30 kHz-300 kHz 1 km-10 km
waves
Hectometre waves or
300 kHz-3 MHz 100 m-1 km
medium waves (MF)
Decametre waves or Radioelectric spectrum

3 MHz-30 MHz 10 m-100 m high frequencies (HF)
i.e. short waves
Metre waves or very

30 MHz-300 MHz 1 m-10 m
high frequencies (VHF)
Decimetre waves or ultra
300 MHz-3 GHz 10 cm-1 m
high frequencies (UHF)

Wavelength in a Names attributed to Electromagnetic

Frequency band
vacuum the waves/frequencies spectrum range
Centimetre waves or
3 GHz-30 GHz 1 cm-10 cm super high frequencies
(SHF) Radio spectrum
(sometimes called micro-
Millimetre waves or waves)
30 GHz-300 GHz 1 mm-1 cm extremely high
frequencies (EHF)
Decimillimetre waves or
300 GHz-3 THz 100 m-1 mm terahertz frequencies Terahertz domain
(THz)
3 THz-400 THz 0.75 m-100 m Infrared light (IR) Infrared domain
Domain visible to the

400 THz-750 THz 0.4 m-0.75 m Visible light
human eye
750 THz-30 pHz 10 nm-0.4 m Ultraviolet light (UV) Ultraviolet domain
30 pHz-30 eHz 0.01 nm-10 nm X-rays (X) X rays
> 30 eHz < 0.01 nm Gamma rays () rays

Source: ITU, extract from Radiocommunication Regulations
2.1.2 Energy emitted

The photons of millimetre radiation do not have enough energy (1.10-2 electronvolt - eV) to
penetrate dense materials, cause chemical damage to molecules or remove matter from atoms2.
This is non-ionising radiation [CASTT, 2007].
2.2 Sources of exposure to waves with frequencies greater than 1 GHz
There are a large number of wireless systems that use radio transmitters, and thus contribute to
the measurable ambient electromagnetic field in the environment.
Examples include: mobile telephony (900 MHz, 1.8 and 2.1 GHz), micro-wave ovens (2.45 GHz),
cordless communications (DECT: 1.8 GHz, Wi-Fi: 2.45 GHz, as well as Bluetooth and WiMAX),
radar systems (frequencies higher than 1 GHz: civilian and military radio-positioning applications,
intelligent transport systems), and location and detection devices (Radio Frequency Identification
technology - RFID).
Millimetre waves in particular are already used in telecommunications in numerous frequency
bands (radio beams at 23 GHz, 27 GHz, 38 GHz and 50 GHz, ground-based stations, etc. [ITU
Radiocommunications Regulation]), in therapy (around 100 W/m2) [Usichenko et al., 2006], in the
transport sector (detection systems, anti-collision and obstacle-avoidance systems) and, lastly, will
probably be widely used in the forthcoming rollout of new short range wireless telecommunications
systems.
2.3 The biological effects of millimetre waves
The biological effects of millimetre waves, and particularly those around 30 GHz, are not very well
documented at present.
A review of the literature concerning the biological effects of millimetre waves carried out by
Nicolas-Nicolaz for his thesis entitled Contribution ltude du stress cellulaire potentiellement
2For purposes of comparison: the energy of ultra-violet waves is 50 eV, of visible light is 2 eV, of micro-
-4 -8
waves is 1.10 eV and of radiofrequencies is 9.10 eV.

induit par les ondes millimtriques (Contribution to the study of cellular stress potentially induced
by millimetre waves) [Nicolas-Nicolaz, 2009] mainly covers the range of frequencies between 40
and 60 GHz. The body scanner studied in this report uses a lower range of frequencies (between
24 and 30 GHz). It is nonetheless conceivable that the potential biological effects of
electromagnetic fields in this frequency band are similar to those of electromagnetic fields at
slightly higher frequencies (between 40 and 60 GHz).
The biological effects listed below have been observed in in vitro studies, following the exposure of
cells to millimetre waves at considerably higher power levels (from a few tens of milliwatts to
several hundred Watts per square metre) than those used by the ProVision 100 (from a few tens to
a few hundreds of microwatts per square metre, according to the measurement reports, see
Section 4.2).
The following section, devoted to the biological effects of millimetre waves, was initially based on
the thesis by Nicolas-Nicolaz, and subsequently completed.
2.3.1 The skin: main area of interaction with millimetre waves

The site where biological interactions can occur depends on the depth to which electromagnetic
waves penetrate the body. This depends on the properties of the tissues and the frequency of the
wavelength.
The skin is the main area of bodily interaction with so-called millimetre waves. Particularly as a
result of their short wavelengths (in the region of one centimetre), these hardly penetrate the body
at all. Their only real interaction with living tissues involves the absorption of energy by the free
water in superficial skin tissues which could potentially lead to two types of effects: those known as
thermal and those known as non-thermal.
2.3.2 Thermal effects

Thermal effects refer to biological effects that can be observed in models using animal or human
cell cultures when the temperature of cells or tissues increases, following exposure to
radiofrequencies or hyperfrequencies.
Exposure to radiofrequencies at high power densities (above 1,000 W/m2) can lead to a rapid
increase in the temperature of biological tissues and cause damages when thermoregulation
mechanisms are unable to evacuate the heat produced and the organism cannot tolerate this
excessive heat [Cleveland et al., 1999].
The ICNIRP Guidelines (1998) state that: At frequencies from 10 MHz to 300 GHz, heating is the
major effect of absorption of electromagnetic energy, and temperature rises [of tissue] of more than
12C can have adverse health effects such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
At frequencies higher than 10 GHz, electromagnetic fields cannot penetrate biological tissues to
significant depths. Consequently, the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) is not a suitable way of
measuring the energy absorbed and Power Density (PD) of the field (in W/m2) is a more
appropriate dose rate measurement [ICNIRP Guidelines, 1998] (see Section 2.5 concerning
regulations).
Exposure to radiofrequencies higher than 10 GHz with power densities above 1,000 W/m has
well-known adverse effects on health, consisting for example in cataracts or skin burns [WHO
Internet site]).
2.3.3 Non-thermal biological effects

Beyond the well-known thermal effects, which have been countered by the definition of maximum
exposure limits for magnetic fields, there is considerably controversy about whether
electromagnetic radiations can cause non-thermal effects. It is very difficult to prove such effects,
especially because a local rise in the temperature of tissue can occur and be very difficult to detect.
The biological effects described below have been observed at power levels above several tens of
milliwatts per square metre.

2.3.3.1 In vitro study of the effects of millimetre waves

In 1998, Pakhomov et al. published a large-scale summary of studies on the biological effects of
millimetre waves on cells [Pakhomov et al., 1998].
2.3.3.1.1 Cellular proliferation
Since the late 1960s, a number of studies have been undertaken on the non-thermal effects of
waves, particularly in the domain of millimetre waves. Webb and Dodds first showed that in
Escherichia coli (E. coli), exposure frequency could have an impact on growth rates and that
millimetre waves at 136 GHz could slow the growth of E. coli [Webb and Dodds, 1968].
During the same period, Frhlich formulated a hypothesis according to which living systems
function as oscillators [Frhlich et al., 1968]. This hypothesis was then confirmed by the results of
several studies by a team led by Grundler, which established that there were specific frequencies,
between 41.8 and 42 GHz, that could speed up or slow down the growth of a yeast,
Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) [Grundler et al., 1977; Grundler and Keilmann, 1978;
Grundler et al., 1982]. According to this hypothesis, when such systems are exposed to
electromagnetic waves, the energy supplied is not dissipated in the form of heat, and the agitation
of the molecules could trigger macromolecule oscillations. These could play a role in active
biological systems and cause biological reactions [Jelinek et al., 1996]. For example, during an
enzyme reaction, there could be a force of attraction between two elements in contact (enzyme
and substrate, for example), if both are in the same state of excitation at the same resonance
frequency. This excitation could come from the release of metabolic energy which could in turn
trigger enzyme activity. However, this phenomenon of macromolecular resonance might depend
on the frequency, and fall within a range between 100 GHz and 1 THz. Nonetheless, this
hypothesis of biological resonance frequencies is far from being accepted by chemists and
biochemists.
There was then a pause in the pursuit of these studies, before they were taken up again at the end
of the 1980s, since which time the results obtained continue to harbour contradictions. For
example, this can be illustrated by the work of the team led by Beneduci, which points to the fact
that cells exposed to millimetre waves, at a PD below 100 W/m, do not behave in the same way
depending on whether they are cancerous or normal. Biological effects seem to depend not only
on the type of cell exposed but also on the frequency and duration of irradiation. The experiments
carried out by the Beneduci team, in the frequency band between 53.57 GHz and 78.33 GHz at a
PD of 10 mW/m, showed a drop in cellular proliferation, but without any observed increase in
mortality [Beneduci et al., 2007]. They made ultrastructural observations and observed that, after
the cells had been exposed, there was an increase in the number of mitochondria, located
preferentially in areas where energy was consumed (endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi), and also in the
number of cytoplasmic vesicles.
More recently, the same team found no anti-proliferation effect of millimetre waves, at a PD of less
than 10 W/m, at frequencies close to those used in therapy (42.20 and 53.57 GHz) on melanoma
cells [Beneduci et al., 2009].
2.3.3.1.2 Gene expression
Millenbaugh et al. showed that gene expression was modified in the skin of rats by prolonged
exposure to millimetre waves at 35 GHz with a PD of 750 W/m2 [Millenbaugh et al., 2008].
In another study, Zhadobov et al. investigated the expression of two chaperone proteins, HSP70
and clusterin, which are known to be particularly sensitive to a wide variety of environmental stress
factors. The authors paid particular attention to certain key phenomena ranging from the
transcription of these genes to the translation of the corresponding proteins, using tools from
molecular biology, in a culture of human glial cells, after exposure to millimetre waves at two
different PDs (54 mW/m and 5.4 W/m), for 16 h and 33 h at 60 GHz. The results obtained did not
show any activation of these two chaperone proteins, suggesting that the exposure did not provoke
massive denaturation of the proteins [Zhadobov et al., 2007] and supporting previous results which
showed that millimetre waves had no proteotoxic effect [Szabo et al., 2003].

In a further study, the same team showed that millimetre waves at 60.4 GHz with a maximum
incident power density of 10 W/m did not alter cellular viability, gene expression or the
conformation of proteins in HaCaT keratinocytes taken from human skin [Zhadobov et al., 2009].
Finally, in a later study, the same team showed that the exposure of cells in a culture of human U-
251 MG glial cells at a frequency of 60.4 GHz and a PD of 1.4 W/m revealed no modification of
the levels of expression of the ARNm of two reticular stress markers, the chaperones BiP/GRP78
and ORP150/GRP170. These results seem to indicate that millimetre waves are not capable of
disturbing homeostasis of the endoplasmic reticulum, considered to be a very reliable biomarker
(for the study model considered here) [Nicolaz Nicolas et al., 2009].
2.3.3.1.3 Disturbances to ionic exchange phenomena
Millimetre waves at 100 W/m and below may disturb ionic exchange phenomena [Pakhomov et
al., 1998].
It has been demonstrated that exposure to millimetre waves (42.25 GHz) at power densities that
did not cause any thermal effect (in the region of 1 W/m2) for 20-30 minutes considerably modified
the affinity for Ca2+ of membrane channels in kidney cells (Vero) [Geletyuk et al., 1995].
The same team [Fesenko et al., 1995] subsequently showed that the effects of radiation on the
Ca2+/K+-dependent membrane channels were probably due, at least in part, to changes in the
properties of the medium in which the cells were immersed.
2.3.3.1.4 Modification of biomembranes
Szabo et al. observed that millimetre waves with a PD of 12,300 W/m caused structural changes
in the plasma membrane of cells taken from human keratinocytes (HaCaT), and also cells taken
from a murine melanoma (B16F10), expressed as phosphatidylserine (PS) externalisation
phenomena. Under normal conditions, these membrane phospholipids are held permanently near
the internal leaflet of the plasma membrane by active processes. Their externalisation, which is
normally irreversible, usually indicates an early stage of apoptosis. However, when cells are
exposed to millimetre waves, this externalisation seems to be reversible and without consequence
[Szabo et al., 2006]. Complementary experiments showed that the reversible inversion of PS could
occur at powers below those used, because in another type of cell, with a PD of 345 W/m, the
same phenomena were observed. It would therefore seem that this externalisation can cause
exposure to the extracellular environment of biologically active sites, which may induce biological
phenomena.
In 2006, Zhadobov et al. studied the effects of millimetre waves at 60 GHz on artificial biological
membranes (black films of phospholipids). During the study, which took various parameters into
account (time of exposure, polarisation of the frequency), it was shown that a low level of PD
(90 mW/m) could lead to a visible increase in lateral pressure acting on a phospholipid monolayer,
but without leading to ultrastructural modifications [Zhadobov et al., 2006].
More recently, Ramundo-Orlando et al. irradiated giant phospholipid vesicles with millimetre waves
at 1 W/m. They chose a frequency of 53.37 GHz, which is considered to be one of the
therapeutic frequencies. By real-time, direct microscopic observation, they observed whether the
waves could cause deformation of these vesicles. It would seem that the interaction between the
electromagnetic waves and the phospholipids present at the interface between the membrane and
the aqueous solution could cause ultrastructural modifications (change of shape), accompanied by
greater mobility and interactions between vesicles. It is worth noting that, as reported in the study
by Zhadobov et al., these effects are reversible and do not seem to be related to any thermal effect
[Ramundo-Orlando et al., 2009].
Several studies suggest the possibility of biological effects of millimetre waves, particularly on
membrane-rich organelles, or on ion exchanges. Some of the results obtained suggest that the
synthesis and secretion of proteins could be altered and/or enhanced [Nicolas-Nicolaz, 2009].
However, observation of a biological effect, especially in experimental conditions, does not
necessarily mean that it causes damage, and still less that it has an effect on health. The human
body is permanently subjected to a range of internal and external stimuli, some of which lead to

biological adaptive reactions, with an impact on cells, organ functions, and possibly health. Effects
on health only occur when biological effects caused by aggression exceed the limits for adaptation
of the biological system under consideration.
2.3.3.2 The effects of millimetre waves used in therapy

The use of millimetre waves for therapeutic purposes was developed in the USSR in the 1970s
and then widely adopted in its satellite countries over the following decade, with the sale of devices
that had been specially designed [Usichenko et al., 2006]. These devices operate with power
densities far higher than those of the body scanner studied here, usually in the region of 100 W/m.
Malignant skin melanoma, high blood pressure, cancers of the ear, nose and throat, etc., can be
treated by these waves (alone or as complements to pharmacological treatment) [Rojavin et al.,
1998].
In general, therapy by millimetre waves consists in local exposure of the skin (2-3 cm in diameter)
[Radzievsky et al., 2008] and, curiously, it would seem that the site where the waves are applied is
independent of the pathology treated. Except for skin injuries or pathologies, the affected tissues or
organs are located in an area relatively distant from the point where the waves are applied.
Applications are made to the sternum, the shoulder joints, certain areas of the skull or to active
biological areas used in acupuncture [Rojavin et al., 1998]. Furthermore, the number of exposures
and their duration seem to vary. Finally, because of the power density used, only a slight increase
in temperature of the irradiated surface (a few tenths of a degree) can be observed, thus
suggesting that these waves do not generate any significant thermal effect.
Rojavin and Ziskin grouped the therapeutic effects of millimetre waves into three broad categories
(see Annex 2):
sedative and analgesic effects;
anti-inflammatory effects and stimulation of wound-healing mechanisms;
stimulation of the immune system.
The use of millimetre waves in medicine, most frequently as a complement to more conventional
therapeutic methods, tends to show that a biological effect is possible at powers in the region of
100 W/m. Hypotheses concerning the mechanisms of action of these waves on the entire
organism have been formulated suggesting that they may trigger secretion phenomena involving
different types of factors (anti-inflammatory, cytokines, neuromediators), thus leading to a
biological effect. The exact mechanisms of action have not yet been determined [Nicolas-Nicolaz,
2009].
2.4 The health effects of waves at frequencies higher than 1 GHz
There is not yet much literature available on the health effects of waves at frequencies higher than
1 GHz, and particularly around 30 GHz. Bearing in mind the data presented above on the
biological effects of millimetre waves and the way they interact with the body (notably their weak
depth of penetration), it is nonetheless possible (given the lack of evidence for higher frequencies)
to extrapolate the conclusions reached about the health effects of electromagnetic fields at slightly
lower frequencies to electromagnetic waves in the range of frequencies from 24 to 30 GHz.
For instance, the 2009 AFSSET report on radiofrequencies [AFSSET, 2009] entitled Update of the
expert assessment relating to radiofrequencies, states that to date, no mechanism of wave-cell
interaction has been identified for radiofrequencies higher than 400 MHz. The appraisal presented
in this report considered it probable that, under the non-thermal experimental conditions tested,
radiofrequencies higher than 400 MHz:
do not modify major cellular functions such as i) gene expression; ii) the production of
reactive oxygen species (ROS); and iii) apoptosis, especially of brain cells (from human
glioma or neuroblastoma, those most highly exposed during mobile phone use);
are not a stress factor for cells, in comparison with confirmed stress factors. The only
effects of stress observed are the thermal effects associated with high levels of exposure;

do not cause genotoxic or co-genotoxic effects that are reproducible in the short- or long-
term and are not mutagenic in conventional mutagenesis tests;
do not have harmful effects on the nervous system, whether in terms of cognition and well-
being, in terms of the integrity of the haematoencephalic barrier or in terms of general brain
function;
do not have effects that are likely to affect immune system functioning;
do not have an impact on reproduction and development according to the most recent and
best structured studies. However, the results are not uniform, and several studies should be
reproduced under reliable experimental conditions, specifically with dosimetric data;
have no harmful effect on the cochleovestibular system after an acute exposure;
and according to the results of a limited number of studies, radiofrequencies higher than 400 MHz
do not appear to:
disrupt the cardiovascular system, in particular the regulation of blood pressure and heart
rate;
have a harmful effect on the ocular system;
alter melatonin levels in humans.
To conclude, according to the results of the studies presented above, no biological effect has yet
been demonstrated. Although these elements may be reassuring concerning the potential health
effects of radiofrequencies, they do not justify formally excluding any long-term risk or particular
individual susceptibility.
2.5 Regulations concerning exposure of the general public to
electromagnetic fields
Exposure limits are set internationally by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation
Protection (ICNIRP). This commission bases its conclusions on the results of scientific studies
published in peer-reviewed journals. With the help of this vast source of data, the ICNIRP has set
exposure limits based on the effects considered, which occur at the lowest level of exposure tested
and are deemed relevant from a health standpoint [ICNIRP Guidelines, 1998]. Most of the
experiments were carried out on animal models; considering the uncertainties related to
extrapolation from animals to humans, the threshold (established for animals) for the appearance
of effects is reduced 10-fold for exposure in occupational environments. This exposed population
comprises adults who are aware that they are working in the presence of electromagnetic fields
and have been informed of the potential risks. For the general population, encompassing the rest
of the population, the basic restriction is reduced by a further factor of 5. This population is
considered to be uninformed about the exposure it receives and includes people of all ages, whose
state of health can vary from one individual to the next.
Between 10 GHz and 300 GHz, the basic restriction is the power density, expressed in W/m,
because of the low penetration of these waves. Their effect(s) is (are) essentially concentrated at
the surface. The only recognised effects are thermal effects and the exposure limits are,
consequently, set with reference to the latter.
Between 10 and 300 GHz, the exposure limit recommended by the ICNIRP for the general
population is 10 W/m in terms of power density, averaged over every 20 cm of exposed surface
and for periods of (68/f1.05) minutes (f being the frequency in GHz). This covers periods from
10 seconds (300 GHz) to 6 minutes (10 GHz) (1 minute and 55 seconds at 30 GHz and 2 minutes
and 25 seconds at 24 GHz).
French regulations limiting the exposure of the public to electromagnetic fields complies with the
European framework, namely:
- European Council Recommendation 1999/519/EC dated 12 July 1999 on the limitation of
exposure of the general public to electromagnetic fields (0 Hz to 300 GHz) which restates
the limits recommended by the ICNIRP;

- the European Parliament and Council Directive 1999/5/EC dated 9 March 1999, on radio
equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment and the mutual recognition of their
conformity.
The electromagnetic fields emitted by the equipment used in telecommunication networks or by
radio-electrical facilities should not exceed the limits stated respectively by Decree No.2002-775
dated 3 May 2002 and the Order of 8 October 2003, which set the technical specifications
applicable to radio-electrical terminal equipment. These regulations are the first to have been
implemented in France, for the general population. There are also specific regulations for certain
categories of workers (particularly instructions concerning the exposure of military personnel to
radiofrequencies3).
The above-mentioned documents define two types of exposure limits: basic restrictions and
reference levels. The basic restrictions are represented by quantities which define the interactions
between electromagnetic fields and the human body (induced currents, specific absorption rate,
power density). The suggested limit values protect people against the known effects of the fields
and must not be exceeded. The reference levels are physical quantities (electrical and magnetic
fields, for example) which, if their limit values are adhered to, ensure compliance with the basic
restrictions. The reference levels are generally easier to evaluate than the basic restrictions. If the
limit values of reference levels are exceeded, this does not imply that the basic restrictions have
been exceeded. In this case the basic restrictions should be evaluated. The latest European
Directives use the expression exposure limit values (EVLs) for basic restrictions and action
values (AVs) for reference levels.
Body scanners using millimetre waves must therefore comply with the stipulations of Decree
no.2002-775, as concerns the exposure limits for people, which must not exceed, for the
frequencies considered, 10 W/m for the basic restrictions and 61 V/m for the reference levels, with
these values being averaged over a period of approximately 2 minutes4.
3 Instruction No.302143/DEF/SGA/DFP/PER5 dated 18/08/03 relative to the protection of persons against the effects of
electromagnetic fields emitted by equipment or installations under the responsibility of the Ministry of Defence setting the
rules for evaluating the risk of non-ionising radiation.
4 This period is considered for the frequency of 30 GHz, which has the effect of maximising exposure.

3 The Provision 100 body scanner

There are several manufacturers of what are known as millimetre-wave body scanners, including:
Smiths Detection (Eqo model) [Smiths Detection web site], Intellifit System (Virtual Fitting Room
model) [Intellifit System web site], L-3 Communications (Provision 100 model) [L3 Communications
web site].
Considering the terms of the solicited request, which states that the equipment planned for use in
France is the Provision 100 model, this report only covers that model.
3.1 Presentation of the device
3.1.1 Manufacturer and distributor
The Provision 100 is a body scanner manufactured by L-3 Communications. This device was
originally marketed under the name Safescout 100 by Safeview, which was bought by L-3
Communications in November 2006.
In France, it is distributed by Visiom [Visiom web site].
3.1.2 Purpose
The portal under consideration (Figure 1) is a scanner used to obtain full-body images of
individuals for security purposes, without exposing them to ionising radiation. The manufacturer
claims that it is more reliable and less intrusive than pat-down searches.
Source: Web site of L3 Communications

Figure 1: Photo of a ProVision 100 portal
3.1.3 Physical parameters

The technology used by this body scanner is based on the use of millimetre electromagnetic
waves. This name is somewhat inappropriate, as the waves emitted by the device use frequencies
ranging from 24 to 30 GHz, i.e. wavelengths of about one centimetre. The physical characteristics
of the device, as supplied by the distributor and the STAC, are given in Table 2.

Table 2: Physical characteristics of the Provision 100
Parameter Value
Operating frequency (in GHz) 24.25 to 30
Intensity of the electric field (in V/m) at
0.15
1 cm
Power density (in W/m2) at 1 cm 59.7
Mean duration of a scan (in seconds) 1.8
Maximum Equivalent Isotropic
Radiated Power (EIRP in dBm) in
-11.7
pure carrier mode, deduced from
measurements
Source: [Safeview, 2004], [CKC, 2010]
For physical reasons, these waves are not absorbed by textile, leather, cardboard, organic matter
or certain plastics and are reflected by metal and certain ceramics (used for the blades of certain
knives). They penetrate clothes and packaging and reach the skin. On contact, because of the high
concentration of water in tissues, a large part is absorbed by the superficial layers of the skin while
another part is reflected. This generates an image of the body, its silhouette and relief to be
generated while also revealing and identifying in a single scan any potentially threatening atypical
element or substance (hidden weapons, explosives, drugs and other contraband items).
3.1.4 Power emitted

The information concerning the power emitted by body scanners and made available to the public
by distributors or user organisations is generally based on comparisons with other emitters, such
as mobile telephones. However, the usefulness of such comparisons is limited by the differences in
frequency of the radiations concerned (about 1 to 2 GHz for mobile telephones compared with
30 GHz for scanners), in emission technology and in type of exposure (general for the scanner,
highly localised for mobile telephones).
According to the manufacturer5 and its distributor [Visiom web site], the power radiated by the
Provision 100 portal is about 10,000 times weaker than that of a mobile telephone or other
commercial devices using radiofrequencies.
According to a report from the American Transport Security Administration (TSA6) [TSA, 2009], the
power emitted by the Provision 100 portal is, from the point of view of the individual exposed, about
100,000 times weaker than that from a mobile telephone (59.7 W/m for millimetre waves
compared with 375 W/m for a mobile telephone) (Figure 2).
A document7 from Schiphol airport (Amsterdam) specifies that studies carried out by the
Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) showed that the levels of
exposure caused [by scanners] were six thousand times less intense than the limit values
recommended by the European Union (equivalent to a power density of 10 W/m for the public -
value recommended by the ICNIRP, see Section 2.5).
5 Factsheet, ProVision, L-3 Communications, November 2009, downloadable from the following address:
http://www.sds.l-3com.com/pdf/PROV%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf
6 The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was set up after the attacks of 11 September 2001, in
order to ensure the safety of the American transport system and to keep travel safe for the public.
7 Information brochure from Schiphol airport (Amsterdam), Security Scan.

Source: Transport Security Administration web site

Figure 2: Symbolic representation of the power radiated by different sources of radiofrequencies
3.1.5 Inspection capacity

The inspection capacity announced by the manufacturer5 and the distributor8 is potentially 400
people per hour on average (from 200 to 600 people per hour depending on the operating mode
used).
3.2 Operating the portal
The portal operates in three stages:
1) a beam of waves is sent in the form of successive pulses to the entire surface of the body
of the person from two rotating masts (holding 192 transmitter and receiver antennas for
millimetre waves distributed over a height of 2.1 m [Safeview, 2005]) that swing
simultaneously round him/her (Figure 3);
2) the energy reflected by the body or any other object on the individuals person is used to
build a three-dimensional image;
3) the image of the individual and any objects carried on the surface of the body is displayed
on a monitor for analysis by security personnel. Another operating mode allows automatic
detection of any objects on the surface of the body without displaying the reconstituted
body image.
8 Brochure presenting the ProVision 100 millimetre-wave portal, by Visiom, April 2009.

Source: [Technical Task Force, 2007]

Figure 3: View from above the scanner
The total time needed for an individual to pass through the portal is about 10 seconds, including 8
seconds for the subject to enter and leave the device and 2 for the actual scan.
Active transmission (the time necessary for the 383 antennas to emit a scan one after the other)
lasts 3.1 ms on average every 8.6 ms (leaving 5.5 ms for the two masts to change the angle), with
this duration varying depending on the angular speed of the masts.
A frequency scan, between 24 and 30 GHz, is performed by one antenna after another every
8.08 s and lasts 5.23 s (leaving 2.85 s for switching between the emitting antennas on the
mast) (see Figure 4) [Safeview, 2005].
The two masts supporting the antennas, which emit the millimetre waves swing round between
two transparent, cylindrical Lexan panels (internal and external). The principal function of the
panels is to protect the person being scanned from the mechanical rotation of the masts.

Source: [Safeview, 2005]

Figure 4: Diagram of the operating cycle of a body scanner

3.3 Image obtained

Millimetre-wave technology produces a dynamic three-dimensional holograph image resembling
the negative of a blurred photo (Figure 5). According to L-3 Communications, a two-second scan
with a Provision 100 portal gives a complete three-dimensional image.

Figure 5: Image obtained with a Provision 100 portal
The image is obtained from the contrast between the areas that reflect (metals), absorb, or partially
absorb (skin) the waves.
Metals will show up on the scan, as they are good reflectors of millimetre waves. Pacemakers
and other prostheses, on the other hand, are protected by a few centimetres of skin and bone and
will therefore be invisible a priori.
The facial features and other parts of the body can be blurred intentionally, in order to respect the
privacy and anonymity of the persons scanned. This prevents the security agent who analyses the
image (in principle at a distance from the device) from identifying individuals.
A special operating mode can be used for automatic detection of potential threats, without
displaying the reconstituted image.
3.4 Uses of the portal
Apparently, more than 200 Provision 100 portals are currently deployed around the world in
airports and other sensitive facilities, such as Federal and State courthouses in America, penal
institutions, embassies and border posts.
Forty of these are installed in 19 American airports (Figure 6), 6 of which are used for primary
detection (in 6 airports) and 34 for secondary or random detection, as an alternative to pat-down
searches (in 13 airports) (data for December 2009).


Figure 6: Deployment of ProVision 100 portals in 19 American airports
In European airports, body scanners are also already operational or undergoing tests (Amsterdam,
Geneva, London, Madrid, Manchester, Paris, Zurich, etc.).
3.5 Other body scanner technologies
3.5.1 X-rays
Another category of devices uses what are known as soft or low-energy X-rays. The wavelength
used is slightly longer than that used in medical X-ray examinations, but is nonetheless shorter
than that used in "millimetre waves". A priori, this type of device gives a more precise image than
millimetre-wave portals.
While the energies of these ionising rays are weaker than those of an X-ray examination, the exact
dose received by the skin remains to be measured and the health effect of these devices needs to
be investigated (see IRSN/DRPH report No.2010 - 03).

3.5.2 Passive devices

Other devices that can be considered as competitors of the Provision 100 portal (such as
Thruvision Systems or Brijot) are known as passive as they project no waves at the traveller,
merely detecting those that are emitted naturally by the human body, which emits frequencies in
the terahertz (89 or 94 GHz) and very-far-infrared domains, as well as temperature-related infrared
emissions. These scanners exploit the contrasts between the emissivity9 of different materials.
Since the human body and metals have different emissivity parameters, it is possible to distinguish
between them by millimetre waves. They do not expose subjects to radiation and are therefore,
by definition, without danger.
The STAC (French Civil Aviation Technical Service) has not experimented with Brijot-type passive
body scanner technology, on account of its inferior quality. It has apparently been found to provide
poor discrimination for the detection of objects carried by travellers. It has only a single field of
vision and to have a 360 scan it would be necessar y either to use multiple cameras or to have
passengers rotate before the camera. The STAC10 also noted that it gave imperfect vision of
certain parts of the body (armpit, groin) and inferior performance indoors (less natural radiation
available) relative to outdoors.
The Federal German Office for Radiation Protection (Bundesamt fr Strahlenschutz), published an
opinion on millimetre-wave body scanners [BfS web site] stating that in order to optimise the use of
electromagnetic fields and exposure reduction, preference should be given to so-called passive
systems.
3.5.3 T-rays
Laboratories are developing new types of scanners using T-rays. These are waves with
frequencies above 1,000 GHz (i.e. 1 THz), located between micro-waves and the visible domain in
the electromagnetic spectrum. Their production and detection has been the object of intense
research for a decade, although no actual scanners have so far been marketed. The advantage of
T-rays is that they are more precise (enabling visualisation of details smaller than a millimetre).
They are supposedly capable of seeing molecules such as those of explosives or drugs.
However, these waves are suspected of potentially exciting DNA molecules, and their health
effects remain to be evaluated.
9 This term is used to quantify the natural emission of millimetre waves produced by an object or organism.
10 Email from the STAC dated 22/01/10.

4 Evaluation of the exposure of people scanned

by the Provision 100 body scanner
4.1 Technical foreword
Considering the frequencies used by body scanners (2430 GHz), and therefore the very slight
depth of penetration of radiation into the body, the unit of interest chosen for characterising the
exposure of people to electromagnetic fields is Power Density (PD), i.e. the amount of
electromagnetic power passing through a unitary element centred around the source of the field. If
the characteristics of the source antenna are known, it is possible to express the PD as an electric
field. Electric fields are often used to characterise exposure for the lowest frequencies, which is
why both notions are used in the following pages. Technically, the power density is the modulus of
the vectorial product of the electric field by the magnetic field, with both being related in the far
field.
4.2 Evaluation of electromagnetic field levels
The following section gives the results of measurements of electromagnetic fields taken from two
reports sent to AFSSET by the Service technique de laviation civile (French Civil Aviation
Technical Department - STAC) during investigations conducted in response to the solicited
request:
the report by the technical and environmental risk management company Apave dated
04/03/08 on Mesures des champs lectromagntiques au niveau dun sas ondes
millimtriques Provision 100 (Measuring electromagnetic fields at a security portal using
millimetre waves: the Provision 100 body scanner);
the provisional test report from the Emitech laboratory dated 22/01/10.
4.2.1 Measurements by Apave

4.2.1.1 Materials and method
Apave first took measurements of electromagnetic fields using a NARDA EMR300 survey meter
fitted with a broadband isotropic probe (27 MHz 60 GHz see Figure 7).
Apave then carried out spectral analyses in the frequency band 24 GHz 30 GHz, which
corresponds to the frequencies emitted by the antennas of the portal installed on the two powered
panels. Since it did not know the exact emission frequencies, Apave used the Channel power11
function of the Advantest U3772 spectrum analyser (9 kHz 43 GHz) together with an EMCO horn
antenna (18 GHz 40 GHz).
The measurements were taken in the transit passageway of the device (as close as possible to the
antennas in contact with the Lexan12, in the centre of the portal where people would stand) and
in immediate proximity to the passageway, at three different heights from the ground using a
standard reference template (at 1m10, 1m50 and 1m70). These measurements at different heights
enabled investigators to calculate a spatial average of the exposure of a human subject to
electromagnetic fields.
11This measurement, using the channel power method involves integrating the signal in the total bandwidth
occupied by the signal to be measured.
12 Transparent polycarbonate panel.

Source: Apave report

Figure 7: Measurements of electromagnetic fields taken by Apave in the detection chamber of the
portal
4.2.1.2 Results of the measurements
Where the readings were highest, i.e. at the closest point to the antennas, Apave measured an
electric field of 0.81 V/m.
The field received inside the portal and in its immediate vicinity therefore does not exceed
0.81 V/m, which corresponds to a power density of 1.7 mW/m.
Comment on the relationship between electric field and power density:

The easiest way to measure microwave electromagnetic radiation is via the electric field E (in
V/m). Another way is to measure the power density of the wave S (in W/m). If the value of the
electric field is known, it is possible to calculate the corresponding far field power density (at a
distance from the source) using the formula S = E/377.
For Apave, these values are maximised as they do not take into account the specific functioning
of the Provision 100 system. Indeed, the signals emitted by the antennas installed on the
motorised supports produce pulses throughout the duration of a scan, whereas in each session all
the measurements were taken by running several successive scans. In addition, still according to
Apave, no-one remains inside the portal for more than a limited period.
4.2.1.3 Evaluation of exposure during a scan

In order to estimate the actual value of the electric field and the power received by a person inside
the portal, Apave states that it is necessary to apply correction factors to the value of the field
measured. The following correction factors were applied:
1) signal recurrence factor:
for the frequency band 24 GHz - 30 GHz, the duration of the signal pulse is 5.43 s over a period
of 8.08 s. The recurrence factor is therefore equal to 5.43/8.08 = 0.672.
2) factor taking into account the time interval between two scans:
the length of a scan was considered to be 1.5 seconds. During the measurements, Apave
performed scans every 5 seconds. The additional factor taking into account the time interval
between two scans is therefore equal to 1.5/5 = 0.3.

Thus, to obtain the electric field to which a person is exposed during a scan, the value of the power
density received over several scans is multiplied by the two correction factors, i.e. 0.672 and 0.3.
The power density to which a person is exposed during a scan therefore does not exceed
347 W/m, according to the measurements by Apave. The corresponding electric field is
0.36 V/m13.
4.2.1.4 Conclusion based on the Apave measurements

According to Apave, all the electric field levels that it measured comply with the basic restrictions
and reference levels stipulated in the Recommendation of 12 July 1999 on the limitation of
exposure of the general public to electromagnetic fields (0 Hz to 300 GHz) (1999/519/EC), as well
as the exposure limit values (ELVs) and action values (AVs) of Directive 2004 on the minimum
health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical
agents (Table 3).
Table 3: Comparison between effective exposure values measured by Apave in a Provision 100
detection portal and recommendations for the public
Limit value taken

Level of the value
Apave from the
measured relative to
measurements recommendation of
the regulation value
12/07/1999
Intensity of the
0.36 61 (a) 169 times lower
electric field (V/m)
Power density -4
3.5x10 10 (b) 28,571 times lower
(W/m)
(a) Reference level for the frequency band 2 300 GHz.
(b) Basic restriction for the frequency band 10 300 GHz.
4.2.2 Emitech measurements

Other measurements were taken on 20 January 2010 by Emitech in Terminal 2E Gate 46 of
Charles de Gaulle - Roissy airport on the same device as the one evaluated by Apave.
4.2.2.1 Materials and method

The measurement system was made up of the following elements:
an R&S FSP40 spectrum analyser (90 kHz 40 GHz);
an AR WBH18-40K ridged horn antenna;
a 1m C&C cable K-1m.
Two positions were chosen for taking the measurements:
3 cm from the Lexan panel inside the portal;
at the centre of the scanner (42 cm from the Lexan panel).
Both measurements were taken at a height above the ground of 1m50. For each position, the
measurements were taken for both vertical and horizontal polarisations.
Considering the rapid sweep of the scanner (sequence completed in less than 2 s, radio frequency
signal pulsed at 5.23 s every 8.08 s), the readings were acquired with the peak detector in Max
Hold mode of the R&S FSP40 90 kHz-40 GHz spectrum analyser (resolution bandwidth 300 kHz).
13 The values calculated here are different from those in the Apave report which contains an error. It is in fact
the power density that must be corrected by the two correction factors and not the electrical field.

In order to obtain a significant trace, several scans were performed by the operator of the machine
using the devices control panel.
4.2.2.2 Results of the measurements

The analysis was carried out using the measurement protocol of the Agence Nationale des
Frquences (French National Frequencies Agency - ANFR) v2.1: 2004 in the 100 kHz to 18 GHz
range and showed little or no detectable impact by the device on the ambient electromagnetic
environment.
Complementary measurements of the electromagnetic field in the high-frequency band between 23
and 30 GHz (the emission range used by the device for scanning people) showed no level higher
than the measurement uncertainty or standing out noticeably from the background noise, whether
inside the device or in proximity to it.
The highest field measured was 0.49 V/m at 3 cm from the Lexan panel, which is close to the
noise produced by the measurement system at the site. The power density corresponding to this
field is 637 W/m.
Emitech considers that it is not appropriate to apply correction factors to take account of signal
recurrence (duty cycle) nor the time interval between two operating sequences, as the signal
measured does not exceed the noise threshold of the measurement system.
4.2.2.3 Conclusion based on the Emitech measurements

According to Emitech, all the levels of electric field measured comply with the limit values of the
Recommendation of 12 July 1999 on the limitation of exposure of the general public to
electromagnetic fields (0 Hz to 300 GHz) (1999/519/EC) and the limit values of French Ministerial
Decree no.2002-775 of 3 May 2002 on exposure limits for the general public to electromagnetic
fields emitted by equipment used in telecommunication networks or by radioelectric facilities (Table
4).
Table 4: Comparison between the values of the electromagnetic fields measured by Emitech in a
Provision 100 detection portal and recommendations for protection of the public
Limit value taken

Level of the value
Emitech from the
measured relative to
measurements recommendation of
the regulatory value
12/07/1999
Intensity of
the electric 0.49 61 (a) 124 times lower
field (V/m)
Power
-4
density 6.40x10 10 (b) 15,700 times lower
(W/m)
(a) Reference level for the frequency band 2 300 GHz.
(b) Basic restriction for the frequency band 10 300 GHz.
4.2.3 Discussion
4.2.3.1 Scope of the accreditation of the measurement organisations
These inspection organisations are not accredited to measure electromagnetic fields in the
frequency band studied (24 - 30 GHz). In France, there are no organisations accredited for this
range, largely because of the small number of commercial applications developed for this
frequency band.

Apave has been awarded COFRAC14 accreditation no.1-1515, whose scope for in situ
measurements of electromagnetic fields is limited to the frequency band ranging from 100 kHz to
3 GHz.
Emitech has been awarded COFRAC accreditation no.1-0107, whose scope for in situ
measurements of electromagnetic fields is limited to the frequency band ranging from 100 kHz
18 GHz.
4.2.3.2 Metrology
The measurement equipment used by Apave and Emitech is poorly adapted to the pulsed signals
emitted by the scanner, and their sensitivity is inappropriate. The values measured are practically
at the same level as the background noise of the measurement system. Questions remain about
how well a probe can respond to a pulsed signal. Only the manufacturer of the probe can
demonstrate this.
The Emitech report states that no pulses were detected during the operation of the scanner. More
detailed characterisation of the emissions would require a test campaign in an anechoic chamber
with Faraday screening, as well as precise technical data about the scanner, such as the exact
emission frequencies (scanning), the emissive power, the type of modulation and the antenna gain.
The lack of data about peak power and the shape of the pulse means that the metrology for a
blind test is difficult to achieve and its results remain open to question.
It might be useful to take measurements in continuous wave (CW) mode, i.e. with the scanning
frequency on pause. To be more precise, the peak should be measured using the recommended
method of pausing frequency scanning and repeating the measurement for several frequencies,
using only the most critical situation for calculating exposure.
4.2.4 Conclusion concerning the levels of exposure measured

Apave and Emitech measured power densities of 347 and 640 W/m respectively. These values
are fairly close to the value given in the TSA report, TSA Whole Body Imaging of 23 July 2009,
which is 59.7 W/m [TSA, 2009]. The power densities measured during a scan are extremely low.
A document published by the manufacturer15 indicates that the power density emitted by the
device was calculated in conditions of maximum exposure: with frequency scanning paused,
measurements in contact with the Lexan panel, and successive scans at the maximum repetition
rate. The frequency chosen for the measurements was 24.624 GHz, and it was assumed that the
power emitted at this frequency was representative of the power emitted at the other frequencies of
the operating range. The power density measured in the worst case conditions is given as
100 W/m, i.e. well below the exposure limit values. These data are in agreement with the
measurements taken by Apave and Emitech.
For information, although the frequencies used are not the same, at the frequency associated with
Bluetooth (2.4 GHz), the level of the electric field measured in maximum emissive conditions at
20 cm from an electronic organiser or from Bluetooth USB keys, is between 0.4 and 3 V/m
(AFSSET report on radiofrequencies [AFSSET, 2009]), or between 0.42 and 23.9 mW/m.
14 http://www.cofrac.fr/
15 L-3 Communications - ProVision power density calculations.

4.3 Evaluation of exposure to millimetre waves during use of a body

scanner
4.3.1 Populations exposed
4.3.1.1 Travellers
The people exposed to body scanners in airports are primarily travellers, including:
babies;
children;
pregnant women;
individuals with medical devices (pacemakers, prostheses, etc.);
people known as frequent fliers who visit airports regularly.
4.3.1.2 People working in airports and flight personnel

Airport personnel (baggage handlers, security personnel, flight crews, etc.) are probably required
to pass through detection portals regularly. The operators of Charles de Gaulle airport, who were
contacted, provided no information on this subject.
4.3.1.3 Security personnel

The waves emitted during a scan are directed towards the interior of the device. At less than 1 m
from the device, the power density when the scanner is operating is of a magnitude of a few
hundred microvolts (Figure 8), i.e. about 3 orders of magnitude lower than the level in a motorway
toll booth with an electronic toll transmitter (0.50 V/m for a frequency of 5.8 GHz according to the
AFSSET report on RFID devices [AFSSET, 2008]).
Outside the scanner, the exposure of personnel responsible for operating millimetre-wave body
scanners working everyday in close proximity to these machines can be considered to be virtually
nil.

Source: Document supplied by L3 Communications to Visiom. The values shown on

the diagram are taken from measurements carried out by an American laboratory (CKC)
Figure 8: Mean values (in V/m) of the electromagnetic field at several distances from the
Provision 100 scanner
4.3.2 Exposure scenarios

The mean exposure time of people during a millimetre-wave scan is less than 2 seconds (1.8 s).
In addition, exposure varies depending on the number of times the person passes through the
portal, ranging from a single passage (for an occasional traveller) to numerous passages per year
(for a frequent flier) or even, in a fictional worst-case scenario, several passages per day (for
airport personnel, for example) over several years.
In the absence of official data concerning the exposure of airport personnel, an extreme worst-case
scenario was imagined taking account of 4 passages per day (in the morning, two at midday and
again in the evening) (Table 5) on every working day.
Table 5: Comparison of total accumulated exposure to millimetre waves related to the use of a body
scanner in an airport for three different scenarios
Occasional
Frequent flier Airport personnel
traveller
Number of scans/day (4) * Number of days

Number of scans 1 Several dozen worked/year (220) * number of years worked
(40) = 35,200
Total exposure over From a few minutes
1.8 s Almost 18 h in total over the entire career
an entire lifetime to several hours
Over an entire lifetime, the exposure of people to millimetre waves related to the use of body
scanners in airports can range from a few seconds (occasional travellers) to several minutes or
hours (frequent fliers) and possibly even to a maximum of 18 hours in the case of an extreme
worst-case scenario (airport personnel). For an entire lifetime, these exposure times are very low.
As a comparison, personnel working in motorway toll booths, close to electronic tolling devices,
can be exposed continuously throughout their shift to electromagnetic fields (5.8 GHz) in the region
of 0.5 V/m, or 663 W/m, for close to 8 hours per day, over their entire working lives.

This level of exposure is comparable to that of people living in densely-populated areas, where
there are numerous devices emitting radiofrequencies: radio and television transmitters, relay
antennas for mobile telephony, etc.
4.3.3 Conclusion concerning the exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted by the

Provision 100 scanner
The results submitted by the French measurement laboratories and presented above need to be
weighted with a correction factor to average out the power density over time, taking account of the
duration of the exposure. After estimating the exposure time to be 2 seconds, and taking account
of the correction factor specified by ICNIRP in its Guidelines, the above values should be divided
60-fold (2 seconds of exposure, for a limit value based on a mean exposure of 2 minutes at
30 GHz). Therefore, the field emitted by the scanner under consideration and the resulting
exposure for the user are far below the regulatory limit values (10 W/m).

5 Evaluation of health risks related to the use of

the ProVision 100
5.1 To what depth do millimetre waves emitted by a body scanner
penetrate the body?
The radiation emitted by most common devices using electromagnetic fields, including mobile
telephones, micro-wave ovens and radio and television broadcasting, penetrates human tissues to
greater depths (Table 6) [Safeview, 2004].
Table 6: Depth of penetration in human tissues of the electromagnetic radiation and power density of
radiation emitted by common consumer devices compared to the millimetre-wave body scanner
In principle, the radiofrequency signal of a millimetre-wave body scanner does not penetrate any
deeper than 1.12 mm (through wet skin), which, for the average person, is above the skins
subcutaneous adipose tissue. In comparison, the radiofrequencies emitted by the other devices in
the list penetrate more deeply, beyond the subcutaneous layers.
5.2 Can the use of a millimetre-wave body scanner cause thermal
effects?
The Safeview report indicates that the millimetre-wave body scanner operates with power densities
(59.7 W/m) much lower than those capable of causing an increase of 0.1C in biological tissues
[Safeview, 2004].
The maximum power density before the appearance of significant heating in tissues is commonly
estimated to be 1,000 W/m [WHO Internet site]. The power densities measured (Figure 9) at 1 cm
from the devices listed below (mobile telephone, micro-wave oven, cellphone, pedestrian detector
at pedestrian crossings and millimetre-wave body scanner) are well below this value. The
millimetre-wave body scanner operates with a power density 10,000 times lower than that of a
mobile telephone. Furthermore, during use of the body scanner under standard conditions, the
individual scanned is located about 30-60 cm from the antennas, which reduces the exposure by
an extra order of magnitude of 3 or 4. In addition, even if all the devices security features should
fail and maximum power were transmitted and the subject were at only 1 cm from the transmitting
antennas, the power density emitted would still be about 250 times less than that emitted by a
mobile telephone [Safeview, 2004].


Figure 9: Comparison of power densities (mW/cm) emitted (measured at 1 cm) by various common
consumer devices and a millimetre-wave body scanner
Under normal operating conditions, a millimetre-wave body scanner cannot cause heating of skin
tissue during a scan lasting less than 2 seconds.
5.3 Are there any non-thermal effects?
The level of power density emitted by the ProVision 100 (from a few tens to a few hundred
microwatts per square metre according to the measurement reports, see Section 4.2) is well below
the level necessary for biological effects to be observed in the context of in vitro studies, following
exposure of cells to millimetre waves (from a few tens of milliwatts to a few hundred watts per
square metre). In the frequency band (24 30 GHz) and for the power density used by the
ProVision 100, no biological effect is expected.
In addition, all international reports (WHO, ICNIRP, SCENIHR), as well as the AFSSET report on
radiofrequencies, conclude that there is no convergent evidence of effects on health below the
limits recommended by ICNIRP.
In the current state of knowledge, there is no known health effect related to exposure to
electromagnetic fields in the range of frequencies considered (24 - 30 GHz) and the power
densities used by the Provision 100 detection portal.
5.4 Are there any interactions with medical devices?
AFSSAPS was asked to respond to the question of the compatibility of millimetre-wave body
scanners with medical devices (metallic prostheses, pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear and other
implants, etc.). The response received from AFSSAPS is included in Annex 3.
Given the current data collected on the subject, AFSSAPS has not identified any problem of
incompatibility for individuals with implants, partly because of the improved electromagnetic
compatibility of these devices and partly because of the depth of their implantation (practically
inaccessible to millimetre waves). However, AFSSAPS fears that patients fitted with pacemakers
may find it difficult to accept the absence of safety precautions such as those in force for metal-
detection portals in airports.

6 Other issues raised by body scanners

The installation of millimetre-wave body scanners to screen passengers in airports raises various
issues concerning ethical practice, respect for privacy and individual freedom, social acceptability
and financial aspects.
This section was added for information purposes and not in response to the solicited request.
6.1 Respect for privacy
According to the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC), every precaution has been taken to
respect the privacy of travellers. The security agent does not see a naked body on the monitor but
an android reconstituted in three dimensions, with the persons identity hidden. In addition, the
portals will be installed in such a way that the security agent cannot see the person being scanned.
There is therefore no way of associating a given passenger with the image that appears on the
monitor. The genitals and facial features will be blurred on the screen. Another option using shape-
detection algorithms does away with the need to have a human agent examine the image, as the
computer automatically identifies any threat. Furthermore, the images obtained by the scanner will
not be recorded. Lastly, as for pat-down searches at security portals, men will be screened by
men, and women by women.
Plans for the drafting of legislation have been put before the French parliament, since the creation
of a new law is the only way such an infringement of individual privacy, justified to maintain public
order, can be enforced.
Furthermore, the French Data Protection Authority (CNIL) considers that the proposed
arrangements do not involve any processing of personal data under the meaning of the Law of 6
January 1978, amended in August 2004.
6.2 Respect for individual rights
At the end of 2008, there had been plans to test a Provision 100 portal at Nice airport, but the
experiment had to be abandoned after protests by associations for the defence of individual rights.
The use of millimetre-wave body scanners is not generally authorised in European airports, as
changes to regulations are required. The European Union does authorise experiments, however.
Until a decision is taken at a European level, body scanners can only be used experimentally and
travellers cannot be forced to pass through these portals. According to the DGAC, if a passenger
refuses for personal reasons, he/she may opt for traditional screening by manual search. Everyone
is free to choose.
According to TSA, most travellers opt for the new screening techniques. Indeed, 98 % of
passengers preferred the screening portal rather than a pat-down search during the TSA pilot
study. In addition, passengers with metal prostheses or other medical devices which regularly
trigger metal-detection alarms also appreciate this technology, which is faster and less invasive
than a pat-down [TSA, 2009].

7 Conclusions
As a part of its effort to reinforce security in civil aviation, France, like a number of other countries
around the world, is considering the rapid deployment of devices using imaging techniques that are
more efficient than the metal detectors currently used in airports. These devices are body scanners
based on a technology using millimetre waves (the frequency range used is between 24 and
30 GHz), such as the Provision 100 manufactured by L-3 Communications. They provide full-
body images of subjects, revealing and identifying in a single scan any forbidden item or
substance (concealed weapons, explosives, drugs and other contraband items).
According to the available data and the measurement reports studied for the purpose of this
solicited request, all the levels of power density measured for the Provision 100 device (347 W/m
according to Apave, 640 W/m according to Emitech, 59.7 W/m according to TSA) are far below
the limit values laid down in French ministerial decree No.2002-775 of 3 May 2002 on exposure
limits for the general public to electromagnetic fields emitted by equipment used in
telecommunication networks or by radioelectric facilities (i.e. 61 V/m and 10 W/m for the
frequencies considered). Due to the short duration of a scan (2 seconds), actual exposure is
reduced by an additional factor, since the regulatory limit values are given for a mean exposure of
2 minutes at 30 GHz.
Based on the information received by AFSSET from the STAC, the power densities emitted by the
Provision 100 portal are therefore extremely low, of a magnitude of one microwatt per square
metre. Nevertheless, more precise metrology of the signals emitted is required, to obtain totally
reliable results.
Several in vitro studies suggest that millimetre waves can have biological effects, particularly on
membrane-rich organelles or on ionic exchanges. Certain results obtained suggest that the
synthesis and secretion of proteins could be altered and/or stimulated. However, these effects
were observed at much higher levels of power density than those emitted by the Provision 100
portal. No mechanism of wave-cell interaction has yet been identified for the frequency-band
considered (24 - 30 GHz).
In light of the current state of knowledge, there is no known health effect related to exposure to
electromagnetic fields for this frequency band and the power densities generated by the
Provision 100 portal. Nonetheless, the health effects of this frequency band are still poorly
documented and it is not possible to extrapolate based on data concerning higher densities.
Based on the information collected, the levels of exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted by the
Provision 100 scanner comply with the regulations in force. According to the current state of
knowledge, there is no known health effect related to exposure to electromagnetic fields for the
frequency band considered (24 - 30 GHz) and the power densities generated by the Provision 100
portal.
In addition, partly because of the improvement in the electromagnetic compatibility of implanted
medical devices (e.g. pacemakers) and partly because of the depth at which they are implanted
(barely accessible to millimetre waves), no significant risk of incompatibility with use of the
ProVision 100 scanner has been identified.

8 AFSSET recommendations
With regard to the deployment of detection equipment in French airports
AFSSET recommends:
continuing to collect information on the deployment of passive technologies, for example,
and studying their performance and potential for implementation in comparison to so-called
"millimetre" techniques.
With regard to guaranteeing the compliance and safety of "millimetre-wave body scanners
In order to ensure that these instruments function correctly and also to ensure low exposure levels
for the public, AFSSET recommends:
introducing regular inspections for all instruments on the market;
reinforcing these inspections through regular in situ monitoring of instruments in operation,
to ensure that they are functioning correctly;
ensuring that newly installed detection equipment functions in accordance with conditions
and exposure levels equivalent to or below those described in the report accompanying this
opinion.
With regard to the characterisation of the exposure of individuals

In order to improve the metrology of "millimetre" waves emitted by body scanners, AFSSET
recommends:
drafting a standardised measurement protocol enabling representative and accurate
assessment of the exposure of individuals scanned;
obtaining precise instrument characteristics (maximum power applied to the emitting
antennas, frequencies used, scanning sequences, etc.) from body scanner manufacturers,
which will allow the theoretical maximum exposure of individuals scanned to be compared
with the actual values measured;
requesting that manufacturers of body scanners introduce a specific verification mode for
all instruments, allowing the frequency scanning and the sequential scanning of the
antennas to be put on pause, so that the electromagnetic field can be measured more
easily.
With regard to the studies and research into the biological and health effects of "millimetre"
waves
In order to gain scientific knowledge of the potential effects of "millimetre" waves, AFSSET
recommends:
promoting research into the biological effects of electromagnetic fields (especially into the
effects of long-term chronic exposure, the effects associated with multiple exposure and
into the different types of cellular stresses);
promoting research into the biological effects of "millimetre" waves, especially on the
cornea and epithelial skin tissues, which are the tissues directly exposed to this type of
wave;

promoting research into the health effects of electromagnetic fields, especially the long-
term effects;
promoting research into the health effects of "millimetre" waves, especially in population
groups exposed to high power densities;
With regard to information for the public and users of detection devices
In order to ensure that the public is adequately informed, AFSSET recommends:
informing all people concerned (and in particular airport personnel if they must pass
through a device many times a day) about "millimetrewave body scanner technology, by
providing them with easily understood and readily accessible explanations at airport check-
points close to detection devices, as well as information confirming that the instruments are
functioning correctly.
Moreover, AFSSET also recommends:

systematically recording undesirable incidents associated with individuals passing through
scanners to provide feedback on the use of the device: for instance, on equipment failure,
any incidents that could affect individuals wearing active implanted medical devices,
travellers' reactions, etc.;
favouring automatic detection procedures when deploying such devices, if their
performance proves to be satisfactory in tests carried out by the Directorate General of Civil
Aviation.

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Engineering & Technology. OET Bull., 56:1-36.
Fesenko E.E., Geletyuk V.I., Kazachenko V.N. et al. (1995). Preliminary microwave irradiation of
water solutions changes their channel-modifying activity. FEBS Lett., 366(1):49-52.
Frhlich H. (1968). Long-range coherence and energy storage in biological systems. Int J Quantum
Chem. 1968;2:641649.
Gapeyev A.B., Mikhailik E.N., and Chemeris N. K. (2008). Anti-inflammatory effects of low-intensity
extremely high-frequency electromagnetic radiation: Frequency and power dependence.
Bioelectromagnetics, 29(3):197-206, 2008.
Geletyuk V.I., Kazachenko V.N., Chemeris N.K. et al. (1995). Dual effects of microwaves on single
Ca2+-activated channels in cultured kidney cells Vero. FEBS Lett., 359(1):85-88.
Grundler W., Keilmann F., Frhlich H. (1977). Resonant growth rate response of yeast cells
irradiated by weak microwaves. Phys Lett. A., 62(6):463-466.
Grundler W. and Keilmann F. (1978). Nonthermal effects of millimiter microwaves on yeast growth.
Z. Naturforsch. 33c:15.
Grundler W., Keilmann F., and Strube D. (1982). Resonant-like dependence of yeast growth rate
on microwave frequencies. British Journal of Cancer 45 (Suppl 5):206-210.
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (Icnirp). (1998). Guidelines for
limiting exposure to time-varying electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields (up to 300 GHz).
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection Guidelines. Health Phys., 74(4):
494-522. Review. Erratum in: Health Phys., 75(4):442.
Makar V.R., Logani M.K., Bhanushali A., Kataoka, M. and Ziskin M.C. (2005). Effect of millimeter
waves on natural killer cell activation. Bioelectromagnetics 26(1):10-19, 2005.
Makar V.R., Logani M.K., Bhanushali A., Alekseev S.I. and Ziskin M.C. (2006). Effect of
cyclophosphamide and 61.22 GHz millimeter waves on T-cell, B-cell and macrophages functions.
Bioelectromagnetics 27(6):458-466, 2006.
Millenbaugh N.J., Roth C., Sypniewska R. et al. (2008). Gene expression changes in the skin of
rats induced by prolonged 35 GHz millimeter-wave exposure. Radiat Res., 169(3):288300.
Nicolas Nicolaz C., Zhadobov M., Desmots F. et al. (2009). Absence of direct effect of low-power
millimeter-wave radiation at 60.4 GHz on endoplasmic reticulum stress. Cell Biol Toxicol.,
25(5):471478.
Pakhomov A.G., Akyel Y., Pakhomova O.N. et al. (1998). Current state and implications of
research on biological effects of millimeter waves: A review of the literature. Bioelectromagnetics,
19(7):393-413.
Polk C., Postow E. (1996). Handbook of biological effects of electromagnetic fields, 2nd ed. CRC
Press. 618 p.
Rojavin M.A. and Ziskin M.C. (1998). Medical application of millimetre waves. QJ Med, 91(1):57-
66, 1998.
Radzievsky A.A., Gordiienko O.V., Alekseev S. et al. (2008). Electromagnetic millimeter wave
induced hypoalgesia: frequency dependence and involvement of endogenous opioids.
Bioelectromagnetics, 29(4):284-295.
Ramundo-Orlando A., Longo G., Cappelli M. et al. (2009). The response of giant phospholipid
vesicles to millimetre waves radiation. Biochim Biophys Acta, 1788(7):1497-1507.
Szabo I., Manning M.R., Radzievsky A.A. et al. (2003). Low power millimeter wave irradiation
exerts no harmful effect on human keratinocytes in vitro. Bioelectromagnetics, 24(3):165173.
Szabo I., Kappelmayer J., Alekseev S.I. et al. (2006). Millimeter wave induced reversible
externalization of phosphatidylserine molecules in cells exposed in vitro. Bioelectromagnetics,
27(3):233-234.

Usichenko T.I., Edinger H., Gizhko V.V. et al. (2006). Low-intensity electromagnetic millimeter
waves for pain therapy. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med., 3(2):201-207.
Webb S.J. and Dodds D.E. (1968). Inhibition of bacterial cell growth by 136-GHz microwaves.
Nature, 218: 374.
Zhadobov M., Sauleau R., Vi V. et al. (2006). Interactions between 60-GHz millimeter waves and
artificial biological membranes: Dependence on radiation parameters. IEEE Trans Microw Theory
Tech., 54(6): 2534-2542.
Zhadobov M., Sauleau R., Le Coq L. et al. (2007). Low-power millimeter wave radiations do not
alter stress-sensitive gene expression of chaperone proteins. Bioelectromagnetics, 28(3):188-196.
Zhadobov M., Nicolas Nicolaz C., Sauleau R. et al. (2009). Evaluation of the Potential Biological
Effects of the 60-GHz Millimeter Waves Upon Human Cells. IEEE Trans Antennas Propag.,
57(10):2949-2956.
9.2 Web sites
French National Assembly [Web site]. On line:
http://www.assemblee-nationale.fr/13/dossiers/lopsi_performance.asp
Bundesamt fr Strahlenschutz (BfS) [Web site]. On line:
http://www.bfs.de/en/elektro/papiere/body_scanner.html
European Commission [Web site]. On line:
http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air/consultations/doc/2009_02_19_body_scanners_questionnair
e.pdf
Department of Homeland Security [Web site]. On line:
Intellifit System [Web site]. On line: http://it-fits.info/HowItWorks.asp
L-3 Communications [Web site]. On line:
http://www.l-3com.com
http://www.dsxray.com/products/mmwave.htm
http://www.sds.l-3com.com/pdf/PROV%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf
World Health Organisation (WHO) [Web site]. On line:
http://www.who.int/peh-emf/publications/facts/fs226/en/
Smiths Detection [Web site]. On line: http://www.smithsdetection.com/eng/eqo.php
Transport Security Administration (TSA) [Web site]. On line:
http://www.tsa.gov/approach/tech/imaging_technology.shtm
Visiom [Web site]. On line: http://www.visiom.fr/index.php?page=sous_produit&type=8&id=33
9.3 Standards
NF X 50-110 (May 2003) Quality in expert appraisal activities General requirements of
competence for expert appraisal. AFNOR (classification index X 50-110).
9.4 Legislation and regulations
Order of 8 October 2003 defining the technical specifications applicable to radioelectric terminal
equipment, NOR: INDI0320366A, French Official Journal (JORF) No.234 of 9 October 2003, page
17247.
Decree No.2002-775 of 3 May 2002 made in application of 12 of Article L.32 of the Post and
Telecommunications Code and relative to exposure limit values for the public to electromagnetic
fields emitted by equipment used in telecommunication networks or by radioelectric facilities, NOR:
INDI0220135D, JORF of 5 May 2002, pages 8624 to 8627.
Directive 1999/5/EC of the European Parliament and Council, of 9 March 1999 on radio equipment
and telecommunications terminal equipment and the mutual recognition of their conformity, OJEU
No.L 091 of 07/04/1999, pages 10 to 28.

Directive 2004/40/EC of the European Parliament and Council, of 29 April 2004 on the minimum
health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical
agents, OJEC No. L 184 of 24/05/2004, pages 1 to 6.
Instruction No.302143/DEF/SGA/DFP/PER5 of 18/08/03 on the protection of persons against the
effects of electromagnetic fields emitted by equipment or installations under the responsibility of
the Ministry of Defence, setting the rules for evaluating the risk of non-ionising radiation, BOC/PP
of 29/09/2003, No.40, pages 6299 to 6350.
Recommendation of the European Council No.1999/519/EC of 12 July 1999 on the limitation of
exposure of the general public to electromagnetic fields (0 Hz to 300 GHz), O.J. of the European
Communities No. L 199 of 30/07/1999, pages 59 to 70.
Radiocommunications Regulations, International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Editions 2008.

ANNEXES

Annex 1: Solicited request letter (Translation on the page following)


MINISTERE DE LECOLOGIE, DE LENERGIE,

DU DEVELOPPEMENT DURABLE ET DE LA MER
EN CHARGE DES TECHNOLOGIES VERTES ET DES NEGOCIATIONS SUR LE CLIMAT
Paris, 19 JAN. 2010
Chief of Staff to the Minister
to
Director-General of IRSN
Director-General of AFSSET
Reference: D 10000603
Subject: Solicited request concerning potential
health risks related to use of body scanners
Two attachments
Following the attempted bombing on a flight between Amsterdam and Detroit on 25

December 2009, the French Interior Security Council decided, for the purpose of
reinforcing civil aviation security, to rapidly deploy more powerful imaging equipment
than the metal detectors currently being used in French airports.
An experimental trial has been planned, to be operational by the end of January 2010,
to evaluate the PROVISION scanner manufactured by L-3 COM, which uses millimetre
waves. The CNIL has already issued an Opinion and APAVE has published a report on
this device, both of which are included with this letter. I am hereby asking you to confirm
whether, in view of these analyses, the projected experiment involves any health risks
to travellers or security personnel when such devices are used to screen people.
Should you require any further information to help you evaluate the radiation doses in
the process involved, I invite you to contact the Director of the French Civil Aviation
Technical Department, Jean-Michel AUBAS, who will provide any information needed
for your analysis.
I would appreciate it if you could send me the results of your joint evaluation within one
week of your receipt of any complementary data from the STAC.
Furthermore, it is possible to that other countries may opt for an alternative technology,
based on the use of low doses of X-rays (backscatter). This option, which is not
currently the choice of the French government, might then affect French citizens
passing through those airports. I should be grateful if you would provide me with any
recommendations for travellers concerning this issue.
Please do not hesitate to let me know if any difficulties should arise in the course of your
study.
Jean-Franois CARENCO

Annex 2: Effects of millimetre waves used in therapy
Sedative and analgesic effects

In a recent article, Radzievsky et al. suggested a possible explanation for the way these waves act,
based on experimental pain models, in mice, as well as data already available in the literature
[Radzievsky et al., 2008]. According to their hypothesis, exposure of the skin to millimetre waves
triggers a cascade of events that can be broken down into 4 stages:
- an initiation phase,
- the transmission of the signal to the central nervous system (CNS),
- a phase in which the function of the CNS is modulated,
- a systemic response phase.
Millimetre waves penetrate the skin to a depth of about one millimetre (depending on the frequency
used). This limits the range of possible targets of these waves in the epidermis . However, certain
small, free nerve endings may exist in the upper layers of the skin. An interaction between waves
and free nerve endings, whether direct or not, seems to be an obligatory phase in inducing the
effect of the waves. To support this hypothesis, Radzievsky et al. refer to the results obtained
during previous studies carried out on in vitro cultures of isolated neurones and nerves, in which it
appeared that the latter could modify their functional characteristics in response to the waves
[Alekseev et al., 1999]. It would therefore seem that millimetre waves at certain frequencies can
influence the activation of sensory neurones, as these absorb wave energy selectively (because
they have a higher water content than the rest of the epidermis), which could cause the
appearance of a local temperature gradient. In their study, Radzievsky et al. also showed that
exposure to millimetre waves led to modifications of the concentration in encephalin, a molecule
belonging to the family of endogenous opioids, known to be involved in the response to pain stimuli
and also in the regulation of vital functions (hunger, thirst, immune system) [Radzievsky et al.,
2008]. This could explain the biological effects observed. This hypothesis for a mechanism of
action is extremely interesting but remains to be confirmed not only by clinical studies but also by
cell biology studies.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Szabo et al. attempted to explain why many diseases (particularly skin diseases) caused by
inflammations can be treated by millimetre-wave therapies. For this purpose, they focussed on the
possible role of keratinocytes and exposed the cell culture HaCaT (taken from keratinocytes) to a
therapeutic frequency (61.22 GHz). They observed an increase in the secretion of interleukin-1
(IL-1), a pro-inflammatory molecule. Because of its secretion in the bloodstream, it seems to act
as a molecular messenger activating other cells, which could explain the therapeutic effect of the
waves [Szabo et al., 2001].
More recently, Gapeyev et al. studied the anti-inflammatory effects of low-power millimetre waves,
by looking at effects that are dependent on frequency and power using an acute inflammation
model in mice [Gapeyev et al., 2008]. According to the authors, the dependence of a biological
response to a specific frequency could be caused by the influence of the waves on the structural
dynamics and the physico-chemical transitions in proteins. Concerning the anti-inflammatory effect
observed experimentally, they proposed the following model: when treated by the waves, the mast
cells16 of the skin liberate the substances they synthesize, through a modification of the
concentration of free intracellular Ca2+ (set off by the wave treatment). The substances liberated
into the bloodstream play a key role in the inflammatory or immune processes. One of the main
16 Mast cells (or mastocytes) are small, highly specialised cells that protect the epithelial tissues (including
the skin), mucous membranes and capillaries (small blood vessels) against pathogens.

molecules released, histamine, seems to have an anti-inflammatory effect and to reduce migration
as well as the functional activity of the phagocytes and T lymphocytes17 [Gapeyev et al., 2008].
Stimulation of the immune system

Millimetre waves can speed up the healing process and stimulate the immune system. Numerous
experiments have been carried out on laboratory animals with injuries. Applying millimetre waves
directly to an infected surface may reduce microbial contamination and increase the sensitivity of
microorganisms to antibiotics. In the same way, millimetre-wave therapy may accelerate the
recovery of patients suffering from fractures or skin injuries (after burns, for example), whether
infected or not. This therapy is also widely used to treat ulcers.
Millimetre waves may also modulate the immune system in a non-specific manner, as in certain
cases an increase in phagocytic activity of macrophages has been observed, and in others an
increase in the synthesis of T lymphocytes as well as the restoration of equilibrium to the ratio of
CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes. Lastly, a greater quantity of B lymphocytes has also been
observed, as well as normalised secretion of immunoglobulin. Unfortunately, most of the scientific
journals describing these effects are not available in English, but they were summarised by Rojavin
and Ziskin in their synthesis published in 1998 [Rojavin and Ziskin, 1998].
During treatment for cancer, millimetre-wave therapy has been used in addition to chemotherapy
and radiotherapy to stimulate the immune system and also to reduce the toxic effects of these two
methods. In fact, a study carried out in 2006 by Makar and colleagues attempted to determine the
joint action of cyclophosphamide (CPA), an anti-cancer drug, with 61.22 GHz millimetre waves on
the immune functions of mice [Makar et al., 2006]. CPA, which is widely used in chemotherapy,
has major side effects as it damages haematopoietic and lymphoid tissues and consequently leads
to substantial weakening of the immune system.
In this study, Makar and colleagues showed that exposure to millimetre waves helped restore the
synthesis of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-) produced by the macrophages, although it had
disappeared following CPA treatment. This substance, called cytokine-118, is produced by the
activated macrophages and orchestrates the differentiation, activation, proliferation and survival of
most immunocompetent cells. In parallel to this recovery of synthesis, a higher proliferation rate of
T lymphocytes was observed, accompanied by a significant increase in interferon (IFN-)
synthesis (produced by these same lymphocytes).
IFN- is the principal cytokine capable of stimulating activation of these macrophages, so that
these produce TNF-. In this study, exposure to millimetre waves was assumed to have activated
the cells involved in cell-mediated immunity (T lymphocytes). The mechanism of action proposed
by the authors is identical to that specified in pain treatment (see above) because, in short, it would
appear that the endogenous opioids regulate the liberation of T lymphocyte cytokines and
macrophages, thus resulting in protection against the side effects caused by anti-cancer drugs
such as CPA.
17 Lymphocytes are a class of white blood cells (leucocytes) with a variety of antigen receptors on their
surface. There are two main classes of lymphocyte, T lymphocytes, which govern cell immunity, and B
lymphocytes, which govern humoral immunity by secreting proteins known as immunoglobulins or
antibodies.
18 Cytokines are small, soluble proteins produced by a cell (e.g. a macrophage) and capable of modifying
the behaviour or properties of the cell itself or of other cells.

The same team carried out work on the same cell culture to determine whether millimetre waves at
42.2 GHz might have an effect on the functions of natural killer19-1 (NK-1) cells in mice, following
CPA treatment.
These NK cells become significantly activated by the CPA after 7 days of treatment. Activation can
be seen in the expression, in the plasma membrane of these cells, of a protein named CD69,
which can act as a co-stimulator of cytokine secretion. A significant increase in TNF- production is
also observed in association with this activation but, paradoxically, the CPA inhibits the cytolytic
activity of the NK cells. When mice are treated with CPA and subjected to millimetre waves at the
same time, the increase in the activation of NK cells is even more pronounced. In addition, the NK
cells recover their cytolytic properties. It is thought that the millimetre waves modulate the effect of
the CPA on the NK cells. The exact mechanism by which millimetre waves protect the immune
system is still poorly understood [Makar et al., 2005].
The use of millimetre waves in the medical field, in addition to conventional therapeutic
techniques, tends to show a possible biological effect, at powers with a magnitude of 100 W/m.
Hypothetical mechanisms of action of these waves on the whole body have been formulated,
suggesting that secretion phenomena are triggered for different types of factors (anti-inflammatory,
cytokines, neuromediators), leading to a biological effect. The exact mechanisms of action remain
to be determined [Nicolas-Nicolaz, 2009].
19 NK cells, which are morphologically very close to lymphocytes, are key representatives of innate
immunity. They have no antigen-specific receptors and fight viral infections or malignant cells through
cytotoxic activity. They also produce a large number of cytokines.

Annex 3: AFSSAPS opinion on possible interactions between millimetre-wave body

scanners and medical devices (Translation on the following pages)


Medical Device Evaluation Directorate St Denis, 1 FEB. 2010

Market Evaluation and Inspection Unit
Dossier followed by Pascal Di Donato
Tel: +33 (0)1 55 87 37 05
Fax: +33 (0)1 55 87 37 62
Email: pascal.di-donato@afssaps.sante.fr
Our ref.: pdd/pdd/10-0313
Your ref: MG/JF/SS-2010 D. No.099
Dear Sir,
In your letter of 21 January 2010, you asked my opinion on the electromagnetic compatibility
between millimetre-wave body scanners and implanted medical devices.
Risks of interaction most particularly concern Active Implantable Medical Devices (AIMDs).
AFSSAPS has already published on its web site studies of the risk of interference between AIMDs
and other medical equipment.
On the basis of this earlier work, I can inform you that the use of certain scanners using X-rays
should not affect implantable medical devices in any way, particularly as the doses delivered seem
to be lower than those emitted by radio-diagnostic equipment.
Using the same logic, my staff have examined the data supplied by the manufacturer of the
scanner and the measurements made by APAVE. They also consulted an expert on questions
concerning interactions with AIMDs and several manufacturers of AIMDs.
The frequencies used are far different from those used to communicate with AIMDs, for
programming purposes, for example. Furthermore, the energy levels measured are well below
those that could cause heating of the components or induced currents. On this last point, the fact
that individuals are not subjected to repeated sequences of emissions but only to a single, brief
sequence should not lead to any such phenomena occurring.
Lastly, considering the nature of the waves used, it is highly probable that the depth at which these
devices are implanted in the body protects them, as the intervening tissues will attenuate the
radiation.
Given the information collected to date, AFSSAPS is of the opinion that there is no potential risk for
wearers of implants.
Nonetheless, one manufacturer has stated that in the absence of data, particularly concerning
neurostimulation systems, the question arises as to whether or not the precautionary
recommendations in force for traditional security portals should be applied.
A manufacturer of cochlear implants also recommends that the external components should be
removed as a precautionary measure before passing through the portal.
On the other hand, a different manufacturer of pacemakers and implanted cardiac defibrillators
considers that there is no risk of interaction. This appears to be consistent with the information
provided by Schiphol airport in Amsterdam. On this subject, you might like to know that AFSSAPS
has had discussions with our Dutch counterparts.
I can also inform you that another manufacturer has stated that it is currently engaged in
discussions with the American Transportation Security Administration and hopes to have an official
decision in the next few weeks.
To conclude, according to the current state of available information, there seems no reason to fear
any major interactions, although patients fitted with pacemakers may find it difficult to accept the
absence of safety precautions such as those in force for metal-detection portals in airports.

We will make sure that you are kept informed of any additional information that may come to our
attention.
Yours sincerely,
Deputy Director General,
Fabienne BARTOLI
Martin GUESPEREAU
Director-General
AFSSET
253, Avenue du Gnral Leclerc
94701 Maisons-Alfort Cedex

Annex 4: Summary of public declarations of interest (PDI) of experts, regarding the scope of
the solicited request
NAME First name Date of most

PDI heading recent
declaration of
Description of the related interest interest
AFSSET analysis: If a related interest has been declared
DEBOUZY Jean-Claude 24 October 2009

No related interest declared
AFSSET analysis: /
DORE Jean-Franois 11 May 2009
AFSSET analysis: /
HOURS Martine 26 October 2009
AFSSET analysis: /
VECCHIA Paolo 21 January 2010
AFSSET analysis: /
AZOULAY Alain 2 February 2010
AFSSET analysis: /

Notes

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Assessment of health risks related to use of the

ProVision 100 "millimetre-wave"" body scanner

Collective expert assessment

French Agency for Environmental and Occupational Health Safety

February 2010 Final version page 2

February 2010 Final version page 3

1 Context, purpose and procedures for responding to the solicited

2 Wavelengths above 1 GHz .......................................................................... 16

3 The Provision 100 body scanner ................................................................ 24

February 2010 Final version page 4

3.5.2 Passive devices .................................................................................................................................... 31

4 Evaluation of the exposure of people scanned by the Provision 100

6 Other issues raised by body scanners ....................................................... 42

8 AFSSET recommendations ......................................................................... 44

February 2010 Final version page 5

9.4 Legislation and regulations .............................................................................................. 48

February 2010 Final version page 6

The Director General

Relating to the ProVision 100 "millimetre-wave" body scanner

February 2010 Final version page 7

Summary of the expert appraisal

February 2010 Final version page 8

February 2010 Final version page 9

With regard to the characterisation of the exposure of individuals

Moreover, AFSSET also recommends:

February 2010 Final version page 10

Four copies produced,

The Director General

February 2010 Final version page 11

February 2010 Final version page 12

February 2010 Final version page 13

1 Context, purpose and procedures for

February 2010 Final version page 14

February 2010 Final version page 15

2 Wavelengths above 1 GHz

Table 1: Breakdown of the radiofrequency spectrum into bands by characteristics

Wavelength in a Names attributed to Electromagnetic

0 Hz Infinite Static field Continuous emission

Myriametre waves, very

Decametre waves or Radioelectric spectrum

Metre waves or very

February 2010 Final version page 16

Wavelength in a Names attributed to Electromagnetic

3 THz-400 THz 0.75 m-100 m Infrared light (IR) Infrared domain

Domain visible to the

750 THz-30 pHz 10 nm-0.4 m Ultraviolet light (UV) Ultraviolet domain

30 pHz-30 eHz 0.01 nm-10 nm X-rays (X) X rays

> 30 eHz < 0.01 nm Gamma rays () rays

2.1.2 Energy emitted

February 2010 Final version page 17

2.3.1 The skin: main area of interaction with millimetre waves

2.3.2 Thermal effects

2.3.3 Non-thermal biological effects

February 2010 Final version page 18

2.3.3.1 In vitro study of the effects of millimetre waves

February 2010 Final version page 19

February 2010 Final version page 20

2.3.3.2 The effects of millimetre waves used in therapy

February 2010 Final version page 21

February 2010 Final version page 22

February 2010 Final version page 23

3 The Provision 100 body scanner

Source: Web site of L3 Communications

3.1.3 Physical parameters