Question
What hazard is created by touching an antenna during a transmission?
Answer Options
- A) Electrocution
- B) RF burn to skin
- C) Radiation poisoning
- D) All these choices are correct
Correct Answer: B
Explanation
The primary danger of touching an active amateur radio antenna is an RF burn to skin. Although the voltage may not be high enough to cause a massive electrical shock (electrocution), the high RF current and voltage present on the antenna surface can easily find a path through skin imperfections.
This high-frequency energy rapidly heats the tissue at the point of contact, causing severe, localized RF burns. Even a low-power handheld radio transmitting while being touched can cause a noticeable, painful burn. Radiation poisoning is a hazard of ionizing radiation and is not a concern with non-ionizing radio waves.
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