Abstract

Overview

The Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) and the International Commission on Non-ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) have set exposure limits for electromagnetic fields in the 0-300 GHz spectrum, and for contact currents in the 0-110 MHz range. These guidelines are designed to prevent adverse effects like electrostimulation and excessive tissue heating.

Findings

• Linkage between contact current and electric field exposures in scenarios involving an ungrounded person touching a grounded object.
• Current discrepancies in exposure limits between different frequency ranges and their potential risks, including burn injuries from prolonged contact or high-frequency exposures.
• Recommendations for revising IEEE standard to better align these limits and prevent injuries, with specific attention needed for finger contact scenarios and the variability of skin impedance.

Conclusion

Adjustments in the IEEE standards and ICNIRP guidelines may lead to enhanced protection against adverse outcomes by taking into account real-world scenarios and physical properties like skin dryness. The study calls for separate handling of different exposure scenarios and highlights areas needing further research.