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Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF)

Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF) are invisible lines of force that surround any electrical device. Electrical wiring, electrical equipment and power lines all produce EMF. Electrical fields and magnetic fields can be characterized by their wavelength, frequency and amplitude (strength). The wavelength describes the distance between the peak of a wave to the peak of the next wave. Frequency is the number of wave cycles per second measured in Hertz (Hz). Electricity in the United States alternates or changes direction at 60 cycles per second or 60 Hz. In many other parts of the world the frequency of electric power is 50 Hz. If equipment uses batteries, the current flows in only one direction and is referred to as direct current. Direct current produces a “static” or stationary magnetic field which would be 0 Hz.

The term EMF can describe electromagnetic fields with high or low frequencies. In general, when you see “EMF”, it usually refers to electric and magnetic fields at extremely low frequencies (ELF) such as those associated with the use of electrical power. This document deals primarily with EMF in the low frequency range, primarily 50 or 60 Hz which is produced by the generation, transmission and use of electricity.

Electric Fields

The electric fields are produced by voltage and increase as the voltage increases. The strength of the electric field is measured in units of volts per meter (V/m). Electric fields often are present even if the equipment is turned off, as long as it remains connected to the power source. Electric fields decrease rapidly the further you get from the source. They are also shielded or weakened as they pass through buildings, trees, clothes etc.

Magnetic Fields

The magnetic fields result from the flow of current through wires or electrical devices and increase in strength as the current increases. Magnetic fields are measured in units of gauss (G) or tesla (T). Gauss is most commonly used in the United States and Telsa is the internationally accepted term. Unlike an electric field, a magnetic field is only produced when the current is flowing. Magnetic fields also decrease rapidly the further you get from the source but are not as easily shielded as electrical fields; magnetic fields tend to pass through most materials which is why they tend to be more of a concern.

Health effects of EMF

Reported symptoms from the general public to EMF exposure include headaches, anxiety, depression, nausea and fatigue. To date, scientific evidence does not support a link between these symptoms and exposure to EMF. The most recent research has been focused on magnetic fields because some epidemiological studies have suggested an increased risk of cancer with exposure to magnetic fields while no similar associations have been reported for electric fields. Although there is some weak scientific evidence to suggest a link between EMF and cancer, at this time, there have been no confirmed links between EMF exposure and an increase risk of cancer, leukemia or other non-cancer related disease. Click here for the studies.

EMF Exposure Standards

Currently there are no federal standards that limit occupational or residential exposure to 60 Hz EMF. Several states have standards for electric fields on transmission lines and a few have standards for magnetic fields. Some states further limit electric field strength at road crossing to ensure that electric current induced into large metal object like trucks and buses does not represent an electric shock hazard. Personal exposure limits as low as 1 to 3mG for have been suggested by manufacturers of EMF meters and different organizations have developed their own exposure guidelines which are 10 Gauss or higher. Since there isn’t consistency in recommended exposure levels, common sense would dictate that a practice of minimal exposure be exercised whenever possible. Click here for a listing of EMF exposure standards.

Measuring EMF

Many manufacturers make instruments for measuring EMF. Most of the instruments that are called “EMF meters” may only be capable of measuring magnetic fields and not electrical fields; this is because most of the health concerns seem to come from the magnetic fields. Check the measuring ranges to see what frequencies the instrument is capable of measuring. The entry level meters that measure magnetic fields are usually “single axis” meters. Since magnetic fields are oriented in space, a single axis meter only has one sensor and will need to be rotated in space until you get the highest reading. A “triple axis meter” has 3 sensors at right angles. This type of meter does not require rotation to get the correct readings.

Click here for a selection of EMF meters.

Commonly Asked Questions

Please Note: The information contained in this publication is intended for general information purposes only. This publication is not a substitute for review of the applicable government regulations and standards, and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the cited regulation or consult with an attorney.