Question T0C09
From subelement T0 - T0C
How can you make sure your station stays in compliance with RF safety regulations?
Why is this correct?
Option B is correct because RF exposure levels change whenever you modify your transmitter or antenna system. A 100-watt transceiver has different exposure characteristics than one with a linear amplifier, and switching from a wire antenna to a high-gain directional antenna significantly alters RF exposure patterns. The FCC doesn't require notification of station changes (A), and while low SWR helps efficiency, it doesn't guarantee RF safety compliance (C).
Memory tip
Think of RF safety evaluation like updating your home's electrical safety after renovations. Any equipment change potentially creates new exposure scenarios. The key pattern: equipment modifications = mandatory safety re-evaluation. This proactive approach prevents compliance violations before they occur.
Learn more
RF exposure compliance follows the inverse square law—doubling distance from an antenna reduces power density to one-quarter. When you change transmitter power, antenna type, or system configuration, you're essentially creating a new RF environment. Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) limits depend on frequency, power, and whether areas are controlled (your shack) or uncontrolled (public spaces). Professional stations often use computer modeling based on FCC OET Bulletin 65 for accurate compliance verification.
Think about it
Why do you think a directional antenna might create different RF safety concerns than an omnidirectional antenna, even at the same power level?