Assessment of Electromagnetic Field Exposure on European Roads: A Comprehensive In Situ Measurement Campaign

Abstract

Overview

The study investigates electromagnetic field (EMF) exposures within car cabins over various European roads and evaluates potential health risks from such exposures, particularly related to growing wireless communication technologies like 5G.

Findings

• Comprehensive measurements covered short and long journeys across seven European countries, including Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Slovenia, and the Republic of Serbia.
• The median total electric field strength ranged from 0.23 V/m to 0.31 V/m. The highest observed value was 17.4 V/m in Austria on the Vienna Ring Road.
• Assessment included major city ring roads, suggesting higher EMF levels in these areas.
• Data suggests car cabin EMF exposures are below the international safety reference levels, yet highlights potential zones of higher exposure.

Conclusion

This first-time detailed measurement of EMFs inside car cabins underscores the necessity to monitor and evaluate EMF exposure levels continuously, especially as next-generation wireless tech proliferates. The data serve as a base for potential safety improvements in vehicle design regarding EMF exposure.