Masts and Emissions

Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Telecoms operators in Guernsey are required to ensure that emissions from their radio masts meet the internationally recognised standards set by the International Commission for Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). These standards, endorsed by the World Health Organisation (WHO), serve as benchmarks globally, including in the European Union.

During mast audits, emissions are measured and compared to ICNIRP standards. Audits also review the operators’ safety processes to ensure ongoing compliance with licence obligations, safeguarding the public, employees, and anyone interacting with mast sites.
 

A comprehensive audit of mobile masts across the Channel Islands was conducted by consultants iWireless in 2017, in light of the introduction of 4G networks. This audit examined all 274 mast sites and confirmed they were well within the ICNIRP health and safety limits.

Since, we have commissioned audits that look at a combination of new or upgraded sites, as well as sites that have tested slightly above the average of other tested sites to ensure that remain comfortably within tolerances. 

The latest independent audit, performed in September 2024, confirms that mobile mast emissions in Guernsey remain well below internationally recognised safety limits.

As part of our commitment to ensuring public safety, independent experts conducted thorough testing on masts from all operators across both urban and rural locations. The results? Every site tested was well within the safe levels set by the International Commission for Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP).

Mobile masts are essential for keeping us connected, and we take our role seriously in ensuring they meet strict safety standards. These audits provide reassurance that Guernsey’s mobile network operates safely and responsibly, giving Islanders peace of mind.

View the full audit results here: https://mastaudits.gcra.gg

Interactive Mast Maps

You can explore the results of these surveys for Guernsey (including Herm), Jersey, Sark, and Alderney via interactive maps. These maps allow you to locate individual mast sites and access detailed audit reports for each. Contact us for free copies of any reports. 

View all mast results here: https://mastaudits.gcra.gg

The GCRA’s Role in 5G

The GCRA is responsible for telecommunications licensing and regulation in Guernsey but does not set policy. Decisions about introducing new technologies like 5G rest with the States of Guernsey, the island’s elected government. Once policy decisions are made, the GCRA ensures that operators meet all licence terms, including emission standards.

Informing Public Debate

Recognising public interest in 5G, the GCRA works with the States of Guernsey, Ofcom, and other authorities to compile reliable, evidence-based information about the technology.

• Content is sourced from accredited experts, peer-reviewed studies, and professional journals.
• The GCRA maintains neutrality, offering resources to support informed discussions.
• Suggestions for additional resources are welcome but must meet rigorous credibility standards.

Policy Inquiries

The GCRA cannot comment on policy decisions. Questions or concerns about 5G should be directed to the appropriate government departments or political representatives.

• ICNIRP Guidelines: Learn about emission standards.
• 5G and Health: Guidance from Gov.uk.
• Ofcom Information: Mobile phone base stations: radio waves and health.
• Recent Media Reports:
  • Channel Islands mast emissions: Bailiwick Express.
  • Understanding 5G: ITV.

Debunking Myths

Claims linking 5G technology to COVID-19 have no scientific basis. For more information, see the BBC's rebuttal: COVID-19 and 5G myths.