Radio broadcasting was developed in the early 20th century. Guglielmo Marconi, an Italian inventor, wanted to replace the wired telegraph and help ships at sea stay safer. Other inventors also aimed to replace the telegraph because the human voice could communicate nuances a telegraph could not. Radio became a communication tool during World War I. After the war, inventors realized broadcasting had non-military applications as well. Radio became a form of entertainment, with a variety of programs broadcast. Companies realized they could advertise on radio and publicize their products.
Radio broadcasting requires electricity. If electricity is not handled correctly, it can lead to electrocution. Even if a radio is turned off, some parts of the radio still might hold an electrical charge. Broadcasting equipment can also short circuit, and lightning striking a radio antenna can also electrocute a radio operator. When performing maintenance, the electricity should be switched off to avoid electrocution. Proper grounding will also lower the risk of being electrocuted.
Radio frequencies can cause burns if someone comes in direct contact with an antenna. Metal objects near radio stations can actually attract radio waves and burn those who come in contact with the objects. Metal objects can be insulated so they will not act as receptors, although this method is costly and might affect the performance of the object. Workers should always wear protective safety equipment, such as rubber lined gloves, goggles and helmets when working with or near radio frequency waves.
Radio equipment also emits radiation. There is a possibility that this radiation could be harmful to humans. Guidelines exist for the limits to radio, and some states require equipment that produces radio frequencies be registered. Broadcasting equipment should be covered by a protective shield to block radiation. Because of radio's radiation levels, radio broadcasting equipment is protected by barriers to prevent exposure to the public.
There is no specific global organization which regulates broadcasting safety. Many countries have government agencies which oversee radio broadcasting. These agencies contain specific units which govern broadcasting safety. Europe's Broadcasting Union is responsible for radio broadcasting in the European Union. Within the Broadcasting Union, there is a unit which deals with safety regulations. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission cooperates with several government agencies to maintain broadcasting safety standards, including the Food and Drug Administration and the Occupational Health and Safety Administration.