STUDY OF 50 HZ ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS IN RESIDENTIAL AREAS AND EXPERT ASSESSMENT OF THE POPULATION HEALTH STATUS

Abstract

Introduction. The real electromagnetic situation in a residential area in the process of power supply network operation and health status assessment of population living in the vicinity of overhead transmission lines (OTL) of various voltages and transformer substations (TS) are of current interest. The effect of 50 Hz electric fields (EF) and magnetic fields (MF) on human health has not been sufficiently studied. Material and Methods. Measurement and assessment of 50 Hz EF and MF levels generated by 35, 110 and 220 kV OTL and by 6 kinds of closed-type transformer substations were carried out. Chronic overstrain index was used to assess population health status. Questionnaire study data among residents in the vicinity of 110-220 kV OTL were used for calculation of chronic overstrain index. Results. Closed-type transformer plants don’t generate EMF or exceed 50 Hz EF or MF health standards (HS). Electric field intensity levels exceeding HS were registered under 110 and 220 kV OTL. EMF health standards were not exceeded at a distance of 2 m from 110 kV OTL and 10 m from 220 kV OTL. Magnetic field induction levels did not exceed maximum allowable levels. Significant levels of chronic overstrain were revealed in residents living at a distance of under 300 m from 110-220 kV OTL. Conclusions. Closed-type transformer substations do not generate 50-Hz EMF exceeding health standards. Compliance with the electrical safety requirements of overhead transmission lines (overhead line safety zones) provides compliance with the maximum allowable levels of 50 Hz electric and magnetic fields. Population health risk assessment study among the population in the vicinity of OTL is relevant.