Measurement and analysis of power-frequency magnetic fields in residences: Results from a pilot study

Abstract

Overview

Extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs) are commonly emitted by various electrical sources in residences including appliances and power lines. This research investigates residential exposure to ELF-MFs to improve the understanding and management of associated health risks.

Subjects and Methods

• Analysis involved ELF-MFs from 3,163 datasets collected from 100 houses in Australia.
• Assessments were made for compliance with International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) Guidelines.
• Comparative analysis with twenty-three peer-reviewed studies from 1987-2015 concerning magnetic field measurements in residences.

Findings

The study highlights considerable variability in the magnetic field exposures across different residential areas:

• Average magnetic field values: bed (0.85 mG), bedroom (1.39 mG), baby cot (0.39 mG), children's play area (0.47 mG), family room (0.30 mG).
• Significant variation in exposure levels was observed, especially in beds and bedrooms where exposures could be above 4 mG.
• Emissions from some appliances exceeded the general ICNIRP public exposure limits, underscoring potential elevated risks.

Conclusion

This pilot study provides a new model for gathering residential magnetic field data, relevant to future epidemiological research and offers actionable insights for reducing ELF-MF exposure. Emissions from certain appliances pose significant concerns, justifying the need for public health advisories discussing the health risks associated with high exposure to magnetic fields.