A real-world quality assessment study in six ExpoM-RF measurement devices

Abstract

Overview

Exposimeters designed to measure radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) are crucial tools in assessing personal exposure in various real-life environments. These devices are typically calibrated under controlled conditions to ensure accuracy; however, the real-world performance can vary due to numerous environmental factors.

Findings

• We assessed six ExpoM-RF exposimeters by testing their metrics pre and post calibration in different urban transit routes across several orientations and positions.
• The geometric mean levels of RF-EMF were modeled based on multiple factors, including device orientation, position, device ID, and calibration status.
• Our analysis concluded that while minor systematic differences exist between devices, they are insignificant compared to the natural variability of RF-EMF exposure in different microenvironments.
• This finding reinforces the reliability of using such devices for personal and environmental RF-EMF studies without needing extensive corrections for minor systematic biases.

Conclusion

The study emphasizes the robustness of exposimeters in capturing environmental RF-EMF exposure accurately. While the calibration can fine-tune measurements, the minimal device discrepancies along with a controlled experimental setup affirm these devices as critical in RF-EMF exposure assessment.