Magnetic particle inspection and EMF Directive 2013/35/EU

Abstract

EMF Directive 2013/35/EU [1] was transposed into legislation in EU member states in 2016. In the UK, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) produced the Control of Electromagnetic Fields at Work (CEMFAW) Regulations 2016 [2] . It is the first piece of legislation in the UK that is specific to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and requires all employers to perform an EMF risk assessment. For many this is a relatively easy process, as most workplaces do not contain equipment capable of producing high fields. However, any piece of equipment that uses a high level of electrical current is capable of generating a high magnetic field and, in the case of magnetic particle inspection (MPI), it is an intended output. As the operator is often required to stand close to the generated field, exposure levels can be relatively high. Magnetic flux density measurements have shown that the action levels (ALs) used as the basis for exposure assessment can be exceeded. In some instances this can be mitigated by some instruction or training, while in others it may be necessary to prove compliance with exposure limit values (ELVs). Proving compliance with ELVs is more complicated than proving compliance with ALs. It is by no means impossible, however, as computer modelling can be employed. The regulations also list categories of worker considered to be at particular risk. Pregnant workers and workers with active medical devices, such as pacemakers, or passive implants, for example artificial joints, pins, plates, screws or stents, are all considered to be at particular risk. To perform a risk assessment for such workers, reference levels contained in EU Council Recommendation 1999/519/EC [3] are used. These are much more stringent than ALs and compliance is more difficult, but a pragmatic approach can be employed to achieve a successful outcome. Fundamentally, the purpose of the regulations is not to place obstacles in the way of industry but to make employers and equipment manufacturers aware of their obligations and the possible routes that can be taken to achieve compliance.