The Laboratory for Radiation Research (LSO) investigates exposure to and risks of non-ionising radiation (NIR). Non-ionising radiation - electromagnetic radiation with a frequency between 0 and 300 GHz - is a descriptive term for radiation with insufficient energy ionise atoms. The effects and risks of non-ionising radiation are clearly different from ionising radiation; even within the NIR part of the spectrum there is a great variety of sources, effects and risks, dependent on the frequency. Three types of NIR are studied by LSO: ultraviolet radiation (UV), extremely low frequency fields (ELF) and radio-frequent radiation (RF).

Since 1990 LSO studies the risks of increased levels of UV radiation resulting from depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer. This research develops along two lines: forecasting based on modelling UV from source to risk and direct measurements of the UV spectrum. Together these two provide insight in actual and future trends in the UV climate. This UV research is carried out in close co-operation with other European institutes.

For the Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment LSO evaluates the possible risks of the extremely low frequency fields (ELF) in the vicinity of high-voltage overhead powerlines. On basis of epidemiological studies the associated risk has been estimated. Further, the number of dwellings in the vicinity of the powerlines has been calculated and the expected increase in this number if the Dutch plans for new dwelling are realised.

As a result of public concern about possible health effects of the mobile phone networks, LSO investigates, for the Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment, the sources, exposure levels and risks of the radio frequencies (RF).