Electromagnetic fields in the home

Abstract

The public are interested in knowing the sources of domestic magnetic and electric fields to help determine whether exposure to these fields causes ill health and in particular, to provide a measure of the electromagnetic environment for an epidemiological survey. First, consideration should be given to the various factors to be borne in mind concerning fields, exposure and kinds of measurements to be taken. Residential measurements consist of a series of spot readings recorded inside frequently occupied rooms. Each spot measurement consists of a single maximum magnetic flux reading recorded by a direct reading instrument at a fixed location and time. Second, remarks on the different sources of fields in the home are made and finally, comments on approaches to quantitative surveys are illustrated. Magnetic field recordings in different locations and current recordings in different conductors associated with each residence over a one-day time period was also successfully carried out. Residential 60 Hz magnetic field sources are identified, including: nearby transmission and distribution lines, residential grounding system currents and unusual wiring configurations. Appliances, as magnetic field sources, were also measured. The purpose of this paper is to put into perspective the dominant magnetic fields to which people are exposed. The data presented here are useful for understanding the magnetic field levels that can be encountered in various places and for estimating possible residential exposure levels.