---
title: "How safe are IBC antennas?"
path: "/knowledge-hub/how-safe-are-ibc-antennas"
type: "faq"
updated: 2026-01-16
description: "IBC and DAS antennas are very safe when installed correctly. In normal operation, they produce similar levels of radio energy to a typical mobile phone or WiFi access point. In Australia, the amount of radio-frequency (RF) energy that wireless equipment can emit is strictly…"
---

# How safe are IBC antennas?

IBC and DAS antennas are very safe when installed correctly. In normal operation, they produce similar levels of radio energy to a typical mobile phone or WiFi access point.

In Australia, the amount of radio-frequency (RF) energy that wireless equipment can emit is strictly regulated. All IBC systems must comply with limits set by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) to ensure public safety.

The type of energy used by IBC antennas is non-ionising. This means it cannot damage cells or DNA. At extremely high power levels, RF energy can cause heating, but IBC systems operate well below those levels.

RF energy also drops off very quickly as you move away from the antenna. Because of this rapid drop-off, exposure levels become very low just a short distance from the antenna surface. As a precaution, a minimum safe distance is calculated for each IBC antenna during the design process, typically 20 cm or less.

Some sensitive medical devices, such as pacemakers, can be affected by strong electromagnetic fields. While IBC systems operate well within safety limits, these calculated separation distances ensure an additional margin of safety.

When systems are designed and installed, antennas are positioned so people are not sitting or standing extremely close to them for long periods. Extra care is taken in areas with low ceilings or tight spaces to make sure this is the case.

## Maintenance Staff & Contractors

Although radio energy levels from IBC systems are very low, precautionary labelling is still used. A yellow warning label is attached to the antenna cable tail within the ceiling space to alert maintenance staff and contractors to avoid unnecessary contact.

We also recommend keeping a physical copy of the IBC system documentation available for any staff or contractors carrying out work in ceiling spaces.

![RF Hazard sign](https://axidra.com.au/sites/default/files/2026-01/rf-hazard-sign.png)