Opinion ID: 767846
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Maximum Permitted Exposure Levels

Text: 32 In addition to arguing that the MPE levels do not account for non-thermal effects, petitioners argue that the MPE levels are arbitrary and capricious because (1) the exposure levels to hands and wrists were increased without explanation; (2) in setting the MPE level for the general public at one-fifth of the occupational MPE level, the NCRP did not consider individual vulnerabilities among members of the public; and (3) the key assumption pertaining to average exposure time used in establishing the occupational MPEs was fatally flawed because experts within the ANSI standard-setting body disagreed on its validity. These are unavailing arguments. 33 The increased exposure levels to hands and feet were, in fact, explained by the ANSI: Considerations that mitigate these higher permitted local [MPE levels] include relatively high surface-to-volume ratios for these parts of the body, the common experience of relatively large temperature excursions of these parts that normally occur without apparent adverse effects, and the lack of critical function when compared to vital organs. 34 In establishing the general population MPE level, the NCRP based the lowered MPE level, and thus the increased safety-margin above and beyond the occupational level, on the differences between the two groups. It pointed to the presence among the public of debilitated or otherwise potentially vulnerable individuals for whom there is presently inadequate knowledge to set firm standards, and the greater risk of harm to the general population due to its higher numbers. The one-fifth level was considered adequate to accommodate these factors, and petitioners have presented no evidence that would render the NCRP's conclusion arbitrary and capricious. 35 Finally, petitioners challenge the FCC's reliance on experts' divergent assumptions regarding average exposure time. As long as all of the evidence has been considered, as was the case here, a factual finding that is supported by more than a scintilla of evidence is not arbitrary and capricious simply because there is conflicting evidence. See American Textile Mfr. Inst., 452 U.S. at 523.