Extremely Low Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields Exposure: Survey of Recent Findings

Authors: Bonato M, Chiaramello E, Parazzini M, Gajšek P, Ravazzani P

Year: 2023

Category: Electromagnetics, RF and Microwaves in Medicine and Biology

Journal: IEEE Journal of Electromagnetics, RF and Microwaves in Medicine and Biology

Institution: IEEE

DOI: 10.1109/JERM.2023.3268555

URL: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=10113779&isnumber=8000303

Abstract

Overview

Extremely Low Frequency Electric (ELF-EF) and Magnetic Field (ELF-MF) exposures are prevalent due to various sources including the generation and distribution of electricity, and everyday technologies such as domestic appliances and electric transportation.

Findings

  • The study consolidates research from 2015 to the present, examining different sources and assessment methods of ELF-EF and MF exposure in daily environments.
  • Notably, all measured ELF-EMF exposure levels were within the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) guidelines for public safety.
  • Higher MF levels were detected in apartments near built-in power transformers, and close to household electrical devices, although these exposures are typically brief.

Conclusion

The findings reinforce the classifications of exposure to ELF-EMFs in varying scenarios, ranging from intermittent partial body exposure to continuous whole body exposure. Despite compliance with ICNIRP guidelines, ongoing debates and research continue to explore the long-term health impacts of ELF-EMF exposure, emphasizing the need for further studies focused on emerging technologies.

ELF-EF ELF-MF electromagnetic fields health risk exposure assessment electric devices ICNIRP guidelines
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