RISKS FROM RADIO

Evening Post, Volume CVI, Issue 87, 22 October 1928, Page 9

RISKS FROM RADIO

•. * i BROADCASTING PERIL WIRELESS TRANSMISSION STEANGE PHENOMENON United Press Association —By Electric Telegraph— Copyright. United Service. (Boceivea 22nd October, 10 a.m.) LONDON, 21st October. There is considerable surprise at the electrification of a builders' crane erected on a high West End building, within one hundred and twenty yards of the Broadcasting Corporation's aerial, providing enginoers with a new problem. Experts, who have investigated the phenomenon, now declare that there is a grave risk of fire in buildings in the vicinity of wireless transmitting stations, because it is evident that they carry a high oscillatory current capable of igniting escaping gas or similar highly-inflammable substances. Furthermore, there is a possibility of the deterioration of bolts and rivets of modern steel-framed constructions. The experts found that the current was so powerful during broadcasting hours that one, touching the hook of the crane,, received a burning shock sufficient to raise a blister. Previously the men engaged in loading and unloading in the vicinity of the crane received severe shocks. Subsequent tests showed that the hook was electrified to the. extent of 320 volts. In the course of a demonstration the crane hook lit a thirty-inch Neon tube, ignited a tin of petrol standing on damp ground, and set afire a hemp sling.. The electrified crane is now equipped with an alarm bell, which the Broadcasting Corporation rings at the commencement of broadcasting warning workmen to put on rubber gloves. A broadcasting official attributes the crane's electrification to the absorption of energy,, the long cable acting as an aerial. He assures householders in the vicinity that there is no danger to lifo and property.