The health surveillance of workers exposed to EMF: an outline of criteria

Fabriziomaria Gobba,Alberto Modenese

doi:10.1016/j.shaw.2021.12.861

Fabriziomaria Gobba, Alberto Modenese

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.shaw.2021.12.861

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Abstract

The health surveillance of workers exposed to EMF: an outline of criteria

Highlights

The recognition of electromagnetic fields (EMF) exposure related effects is fundamental for an appropriate prevention of the occupational risk
Materials and Methods: Based on current scientific literature, an outline of the main health effects induced by EMF, and of the conditions determining a particular risk for the exposed workers, is provided
The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) is the Australian Government’s primary authority on radiation protection for people and the environment including the protection of workers

Summary

Introduction

Electromagnetic fields (EMF) exposure is a recognized occupational risk, potentially involving a huge number of workers. Materials and Methods: In the European Union a specific Directive, the 2013/35/EU, provides exposure limits (ELV) for EMF occupational exposure, and lay down an obligation for the HS of exposed workers. Considering this Directive, an outline of the main criteria to be considered in the HS of EMF exposed workers in EU is discussed. Occupational EMF-exposures below the ELVs can be considered usually adequately protective against the direct effects, while for some indirect ones, e.g. interference in workers with active medical devices as pacemakers, a health risk cannot be neglected. The special issue aims to conduct updated extensive reviews on (1) the effects of specific occupations on the reproductive system; (2) effects of occupational, physical exposure on the reproductive system; (3) effects of occupational psychosocial