Abstract
Shortwave and microwave electromagnetic fields heat tissue through absorption of energy, and may lead to a danger of burns from current flow. The national and international bodies concerned with safe use of non-ionising radiations (NRPB and INIRC) have derived reference field strengths to provide guidance on limiting exposures to avoid these effects. The biological effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields and the power levels at which they occur are discussed. Measurements of field strengths close to diathermy equipment show that values above the reference levels extend to about 1 metre from electrodes and cables of continuous shortwave and microwave units, and about 0.5 m from pulsed shortwave units. Electric field strengths are greatest around the electrodes, while magnetic fields are highest near to the cables.
Published Version
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