Extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF EMF) survey of residential areas around transmission lines

Abstract

Extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) are categorized as non-ionising radiation (NIR). They are generally generated by overhead transmission power lines. A study of ELF EMF was conducted at residential areas around the transmission line located at Kelang Valley. The objectives of the study were to determine the strength of the ELF EMF present besides to assess the potential exposure received by future residents. The surveys were carried out using PMM model EHP50A and EMDEX instruments based on standard measurement procedures and protocol recommended by IEEE. The results obtained were compared against the permissible exposure limits recommended by International commission of non-ionising radiation protection (ICNIRP) for members of public to ensure that they are acceptable in term of safety. This paper highlights some of the findings at the Study site. The results obtained indicates that the ELF EMF radiation level within the study area (outside ROW) generated by the power lines but their field strengths were within the permissible exposure limits by ICNIRP which were 0.03% and 5.26% for magnetic and electric field respectively. Both field strengths were found to drop very significantly against distance from the power lines where closer distances always showed higher field strengths.