Abstract

Overview

Exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) is often measured with personal exposimeters. However, the accuracy of these measurements can be compromised due to body shielding when devices are carried on the body. Additionally, their compact design may affect the frequency selectivity of the sensor.

Findings

• A novel multi-band body-worn distributed-exposimeter (BWDM) was developed to address these issues.
• The study compared the RF-EMF measurements from this new device against two commercially available personal exposimeters, ExpoM-RF and EmeSpy 200, under real-life conditions.
• Results showed that personal exposimeters typically provide slightly lower exposures than the BWDM, mainly due to body shielding.

Conclusion

This investigation into device comparison sheds light on the interpretation of existing epidemiological research concerning RF-EMF. It emphasizes the need for improved exposure assessment strategies and how to interpret exposure values within scientific research accurately. It further highlights the role of body shielding in affecting measurements and suggests that using two exposimeters might mitigate this issue.