|
The subject of Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) is a highly contentious and controversial public health issue that is currently receiving significant global debate. There appears to be sufficient information to take a precautionary approach to EMF exposure, however, clinical studies have shown varying results.
What are Electromagnetic Fields?
Put simply, EMFs are an all encompassing term used to describe the fields given off by electric and magnetic radiation. Radio and television transmissions are good examples. There are two key types of EMF that are currently under debate:
- Extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF) from electrical and electronic appliances, for example, computers and power lines and
- Radio frequency radiation (RF) from wireless devices such as mobile phones and cordless phones, cellular antennas and towers and broadcast transmission towers
What are the key issues with EMF?
One of the main issues surrounding EMF exposure could be that it is not widely recognised as a human health issue. Contradictory scientific evidence and insufficient research in addition to varying individual sensitivities make it difficult to establish a definitive cause and effect relationship. In addition, the technologies that produce EMF are designed to maximise energy efficiency and convenience and are not necessarily designed with human health in mind. As a society we rely heavily on electricity for daily activities and we rapidly develop and adopt new technologies with little time or obligation to evaluate long-term consequences.
Some population studies have shown relationships between long term EMF exposure and an increase in health effects such as cancers and neurological system disorders, allergic reactions and immune system dysfunction, while other clinical studies have shown no direct relationship.
In September 2007, Germany recommended to its citizens that people should keep their exposure to radiation from Wi-Fi (wireless technology) as low as possible by choosing conventional wired connections. They are also actively informing people about possibilities for reducing personal exposure, such as promoting the use of landlines over mobile and cordless phones.
Symptoms and Side Effects
Some commonly documented symptoms and signs of EMF sensitivity include:
- Warmth or sensation of burning similar to sunburn
- Skin blemish or rash in some people
- Tingling sensations in skin
- Dry eyes and mucous membranes
Other symptoms that have been documented with increased sensitivity include:
- Fatigue, tiredness, concentration difficulties, dizziness and loss of memory
- Headache, ringing in the ears, nausea, digestive disturbances, heart palpitations
- Muscle and joint pains
Management of EMF in the Workplace
Given that there is such disagreement as to the possible impacts of EMF, a number of scientists and public health professionals including the EU's European Environment Agency (EEA), have recommended that a precautionary approach to EMF be taken. Recommendations include the use of landlines over cell and cordless phones, and that if these devices are used, the time spent on them should be as short as possible. They advise that wireless technology should be avoided where possible. In addition the following precautions can be taken in the workplace:
- Design office layouts to minimise workers' exposure to EMFs from office equipment such as photocopiers and electrical substations
- Ensure that electrical substations are not located adjacent to rooms where people will be spending long periods of time on a daily basis (including areas directly above and below the substation)
- Consider the location of electrical cabling to and from substations as they can also be significant emitters of EMF
- Ensure that work-stations are two metres or more away from small distribution boxes
- Before selecting a building site, note the closeness of nearby power and transmission lines, and substations. Locate the building as far away as practicable
If there are suspected concerns over EMF levels in the workplace, testing can be carried out by an:
- EMF specialist
- Building Biologist or
- Occupational Hygienist
References:
BioInitiative Report - Public Summary
Radiation Risk from Everyday Devices
World Health Organisation (WHO) View on EMF
World Health Organisation View on Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity
Other articles of interest related to depression, health and EMF:
Can mobiles cause depression?
Suicides Linked to Electromagnetic Radiation
Cloud of worry gathers over wireless health risks
Exposure to the invisible cloud of energy called electrosmog is rising
|
