Non-ionising radiation includes electromagnetic fields such as those generated by mobile communications and other radio applications as well as optical radiation. Optical radiation includes ultraviolet (UV) radiation (which is imperceptible to our eyes), visible light, and infrared radiation.

As a WHO Collaborating Centre, the BfS helps develop general safety standards for protection against non-ionising radiation. It participates in research programmes that investigate the relationship between non-ionising radiation and our health. The BfS supports the WHO in conducting the WHO webinar series as well as in the technical preparation of WHO publications on the topic of "Non-ionising radiation and health". At the request of the WHO, the BfS advises other member states on technical issues.

Adequate health care after an accident involving the release of radioactive substances into the environment requires planning ahead. In addition to physical health, mental health plays an important role.

Among other things, the BfS contributes its expertise in this area to the development of practical guides to help the health authorities of WHO member states minimise the psychosocial consequences of radiological emergencies.

The BfS and the WHO have been cooperating in biological dosimetry for a number of years. This procedure makes it possible to detect past increased radiation exposure using biomarkers in blood cells. In this way, after an accident, those persons who require special medical observation or after care because of increased radiation exposure can be identified – because corresponding symptoms can also be triggered by psychological stress. The BfS continues to play an important role in implementing international interlaboratory comparisons for quality assurance and addressing scientific questions.

In medicine, ionising radiation is used for conventional X-rays and computed tomography as well as for the irradiation of tumours. Radioactive substances are also used on humans for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

Any mistake in the application can harm patients. Within the framework of the WHO cooperation, the BfS provides analyses and best practice examples on how to prevent errors and improve safety. The BfS also develops technical bases on the benefits and risks of medical radiation applications and makes them available for educational purposes.

The existing exposure situation refers to the radiation exposure of humans, the causes of which cannot be influenced or can be influenced only to a limited extent. In many cases, this includes naturally occurring ionising radiation such as that emitted by the radioactive gas radon or radioactive substances contained in drinking water and food.

Within this thematic focus, the BfS participates in the revision of the WHO Radon Handbook and the WHO Drinking Water Guidelines and helps develop risk communication materials for both areas. The BfS also helps develop recommendations for risk communication regarding the safe consumption of food after a radiological emergency and conducts research on the biological mechanisms that could explain the harmful effects of radon on health in greater detail.