The following is information about Electromagnetic Fields in Europe. It was given to me by a friend who is an Electrical Engineering Consultant in Europe.
Table of Contents
Electromagnetic fields (EMF)
Antennas, high-voltage power lines, mobile phones and electrical appliances produce electromagnetic fields. Strong electromagnetic fields can cause physical complaints. That is why it is important to handle sources of strong electromagnetic fields with care. These sources include high-voltage power lines, antennas and MRI scans in hospitals.
High-voltage power lines (electricity) It makes a difference whether someone is exposed to electromagnetic fields for a short or long period of time.
Short-term exposure
Strong electromagnetic fields can cause physical reactions during short-term exposure. Examples include tingling in the arms and seeing flashes of light. The European Union therefore recommends that the magnetic field at a high-voltage power line should not be stronger than 100 microtesla. Tesla is the unit for the strength of a magnetic field.
These physical reactions do not occur at fields below this limit. In the Netherlands, electromagnetic fields remain below this limit at locations near high-voltage power lines where citizens are allowed to go.
Long-term exposure
According to scientific research, there seems to be a link between high-voltage power lines and childhood leukemia. Children who spend long periods of time near an overhead high-voltage power line are said to have a higher chance of developing the disease. It is not entirely certain that it is caused by EMF.
We want to keep risks as small as possible. That is why new construction plans must always take magnetic fields into account. Places where children spend long periods of time, such as homes, schools, crèches and childcare facilities, must be located outside a magnetic field zone.
Antennas (telecom)
Antennas differ in the strength with which they transmit their signal. This strength is called the transmission power. Due to the differences in transmission power, electromagnetic fields vary in strength. Antennas in products such as mobile phones must meet safety requirements. They therefore do not pose a danger.
With some antennas, it is necessary to keep a distance. These are antennas with a large range and with strong EMF. Think of transmission masts for TV, radio, and radar. Information about antennas in the area can be found in the Antenna Register.
No permit is required for placing antennas smaller than five meters. Before placing antennas on buildings, telecom providers must also request permission from residents.
Working with Electromagnetic Fields
Sometimes I work close to a source of strong electromagnetic fields. For example, in high-voltage masts, near transmission masts on roofs, near radar installations or near MRI equipment. I must prevent running risks in this regard. They must therefore inventory these risks and take measures
There is considerable uncertainty currently, at least from all scientists, about the risks and dangers of EMF to the general population. I have written further about the subject. Go here to read more. There are also devices being developed that can offer some protection to these rays. See them here.