What hazard is created by touching an antenna during a transmission?

• A. Electrical shock
• B. RF burn to skin
• C. Noise interference
• D. Component damage

Answer: (B)

When you touch an antenna during a transmission, you expose your skin to radio frequency (RF) energy being radiated from the antenna. This RF energy can cause burns to the skin, known as RF burns. The reason for this phenomenon lies in the way RF energy interacts with the body. The energy can cause heating of body tissue, similar to how microwaves heat food. As a result, touching a transmitting antenna poses a direct risk of RF burn, particularly if the transmission power levels are high.

Understanding this risk is crucial, especially for amateur radio operators who may be working with high power levels. Safety precautions must always be taken to avoid contact with antennas while radio frequency transmissions are occurring to prevent potential injuries like RF burns.