Lakehead University's Wireless Campus Policy

Lakehead University's Wireless Campus Policy

Lakehead University would like to inform all of our new students, faculty, and staff, as well as remind the entire University Community, that the Institution does not have a wireless network environment at either the Thunder Bay or the Orillia Campus.

A policy decision based on the “precautionary principle” was made at the Presidential level to not install wireless technology due to a number of compelling and well researched reasons, including health, security, and cost, in that order. Numerous scientific studies suggest that there is a basis for concern since continuous or frequent long-term exposure to WiFi electromagnetic fields (EMFs) could have adverse health effects, including risks for both childhood and adult cancers. A recent report by an international working group of scientists, researchers, and public health policy professionals (The BioInitiative Working Group - www.bioinitiative.org) documents scientific evidence that even small levels of exposure to radiofrequency and microwave radiations emitted by wireless technologies, including WiFi, can result in physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, changes in brainwave activity, and impairment of concentration and memory.

Although Lakehead University’s primary mandate is to provide superior educational programs and the best delivery systems possible within available resources, this mandate is not to come at the potential expense of the long-term health of our students and employees. It is very important to note, however, that although we have not elected to establish wireless technology on our campuses, Lakehead is in fact, completely connected to the worldwide web through a comprehensive and state-of-the-art fibre optic network. With over 8,000 Ethernet ports, including ‘hardwired hook-ups’ at our many Internet Carousels and Computer Labs, students can enjoy secure communications from our University computers equipped with Internet access and specialized software. Additionally, all of our residence accommodations have network ports installed for connecting personal computers to the Lakehead network.

Lakehead University has always been a leader in, and a champion of, technology-based initiatives. The Institution was one of the first in Canada to implement IP Telephony service and remains a pioneer in this field with one of the largest deployments of VoIP technology in the Education sector. Our Advanced Technology and Academic Centre (ATAC), boasting state-of-the-art Technology Enhanced Classrooms, a Virtual Reality Environment, and High-Performance Computing Facility, positions the Institution as an innovator in high-tech learning and research environments. The University will continue to embrace and pursue technology advancements, and will do so with the health and safety of our students and employees at the forefront of our collective decision-making.

To review the full report produced by the BioInitiative Working Group, please visit http://www.bioinitiative.org/report/index.htm.

For further information about Lakehead University’s WiFi Policy, please visit http://policies.lakeheadu.ca/policy.php?pid=178.

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