What hazard is created by touching an antenna during a transmission?

Transmitting antennas carry high-frequency alternating currents. If you touch an active antenna while transmitting, this intense radio frequency (RF) energy can pass directly into your skin, causing localized, deep tissue heating known as an RF burn. An RF burn is different from standard electrical shock (electrocution), which is typically associated with lower frequencies like 60 Hz AC mains power affecting the heart or nervous system. Furthermore, amateur radio frequencies produce non-ionizing radiation. They do not possess enough energy to strip electrons from atoms, meaning you are not at risk for ionizing radiation exposure (like X-rays) when touching an antenna.