Measurement of the environmental broadband electromagnetic waves in a mid-size European city

Authors: Fernández-García R, Gil I

Year: 2017 Jul 26

Category: Environmental Science

Journal: Environ Res

DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.07.040

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28755561

Abstract

Overview

In a research conducted in a mid-sized European city, the focus was on evaluating the level of broadband radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure. This went hand-in-hand with the International Commission on Non-ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) guidelines set in 1998, and covered an extensive frequency up to 18GHz within the urban landscape.

Methodology and Findings

Measurements were conducted over 271 locations in Terrassa, Spain, using sophisticated measurement tools. The results were presented in a set of raster maps, designed to make the data accessible and understandable to the general public. Interestingly, the findings revealed that the levels of electromagnetic waves throughout the city were significantly below the predetermined safety levels dictated by international standards, for both the public and occupational sectors.

Importance of Continuous Monitoring

The paper cites concerns from the World Health Organization about the ubiquitous nature of RF radiation similar to air pollution, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing research and extended measurement range to address future technological advances such as 5G networks.

Tools and Calibration

  • The electric field measurements were implemented using the Wavecontrol SMP2 electromagnetic field meter and a WPF18 broadband isotropic probe.
  • This technology allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the radioelectric environment from 300 kHz to 18 GHz.
  • The instrumentation was rigorously calibrated according to the ISO 17025 standard, ensuring accurate and reliable data.
electromagnetic fields environmental measurement broadband radiofrequency RF-EMF non-ionizing radiation public health 5G
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