Just got my General upgrade and I'm planning to install a new HF station with a 100W transceiver and a 40m dipole at 30 feet. I understand the new rules require station evaluations for all amateurs, with existing stations having until May 3, 2023 to complete evaluations and new stations needing compliance before activation. What specific steps do I need to take to be legally compliant? Section 97.13 requires licensees to take certain actions before transmitting where RF exposure could exceed FCC guidelines. Looking for practical guidance on how to actually do this evaluation.

Start with the ARRL RF worksheets A and B - Worksheet B is now a necessary step under the new rules. For your dipole setup, check OET Supplement B Bulletin 65 which has numerous tables for different antenna types and bands. Most likely your 100W/dipole combination will pass easily.

The ARRL Lab staff is available to help amateurs make these determinations and perform calculations to ensure compliance. ARRL also has an RF Safety page on its website and is working with the FCC to update OET Bulletin 65. Don't stress too much - most typical HF stations will be compliant with minimal effort.

Thanks for asking this! I'm in the same boat with a new Tech license and want to understand the rules. The FCC removed the power threshold exemption because amateur installations vary widely in size, power, and frequency, and can be located close to people. Sounds like we all need to do our homework now.