When must an RF exposure evaluation be performed on an amateur station operating on 80 meters?

Under the updated FCC RF exposure regulations that replaced the older rules, the broad categorical exemptions based purely on operating frequency and transmitter power were eliminated. Previously, stations running less than 500 watts on 80 meters were exempt, but this is no longer true. Today, every amateur station must perform an RF exposure evaluation regardless of band, mode, or power level. This evaluation does not require expensive test equipment; amateurs can satisfy the requirement by using straightforward online calculators or published FCC tables to confirm compliance. Distractors that mention power limits under 100 watts or specific modes like CW are testing your reliance on outdated regulations. Always remember that under current rules, an evaluation is universally required.