Research indicates increased radiation risk from "hands-free" mobiles

Hands-free kits for mobile phones channel three times the radiation dose into the ear as normal mobiles. This is because the ear piece attachment acts like an aerial, according to research by the Consumers' Association. The research contradicts an earlier study by the National Physics Laboratory, which found that headsets reduce radiation by 98%.

Although there is no firm and conclusive evidence that the radiation emitted by mobile phones is harmful, unions have tended to err on the side of caution and have called for further research. Some unions have advised members using mobile phones at work to ask for ear piece attachments to reduce radiation exposure levels.

The Department of Health has set up a commission to investigate the health implications of mobile phone use, and the Consumers' Association research findings have been submitted to this commission.