Download FINDING MORE APPROPRIATE EMF EXPOSURE LIMITS

FINDING MORE APPROPRIATE EMF EXPOSURE LIMITS
AN INDEPENDENT REPORT
INVESTIGATING THE CRITERIA GOVERNING THE CURRENT
AUSTRALIAN ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD EXPOSURE LIMITS
INTENDED TO LIMIT ADVERSE HEALTH EFFECTS TO HUMANS.
AUTHOR:
D. J. Rhys Greenhalgh Esq.
AUTHORISED BY:
Mr E. Tremble
Chairman
EMF Protection Society Australia
DATE OF SUBMISSION: 11 November 1998
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
5
SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION
1
6
HEALTH EFFECTS OF EMF’s
1.1
7
LEUKEMIA
1.1.1
1.1.2
1.2
Power Lines
TV Transmitters
CANCER
1.2.1
1.2.2
1.2.3
1.3
Microwaves
Mobile Phones
Promotion Of Cancer
SPECIFIC BODY PARTS EFFECTED
1.3.1
1.3.2
1.3.3
1.3.4
1.3.5
1.4
Intercellular Communication
Arrestment of Embryo Development
Immune System
Asthma, Arthritis, Diabetes, and Psychological Disorders
Reduction In Melatonin Levels
OTHER ADVERSE EFFECTS
1.4.1
1.4.2
1.4.3
1.5
Human Response Time
Sleep Patterns
Brainwaves
BENEFICIAL EFFECTS
1.5.1
1.5.2
Improved Cancer Drug Effect
Improved Bone Fracture and Wound Healing
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8
9
2
LIMITATIONS OF CURRENT STUDIES
2.1
TRANSIENTS AND HARMONIC DISTORTIONS IGNORED
2.1.1
2.1.2
2.1.3
Most Studies Exclude Transients And Distortions
Adverse Effects Of Transients And Distortions Shown
Transients and Distortions Above Background Cellular Noise
2.2
ELECTRIC FIELDS IGNORED
2.3
PREVIOUSLY UNRECOGNISED SOURCES OF EMF’S
2.3.1
2.3.2
2.3.2
2.4
3
10
Extra Low EMF Frequencies
Extra Low EMF Frequencies Filtered Out
Rotating Car Tyre’s
RELATIVE RISK FACTOR
12
ADMISSIONS, CONTRADICTIONS & MISREPRESENTATIONS
3.1
11
13
ADVERSE HEALTH EFFECT FINDINGS
3.1.1
3.1.2
3.2
The NCRP (USA)
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
ADMISSIONS
3.2.1
3.2.2
3.2.3
3.2.4
3.3
14
The National Health and Medical Research Council (Aust)
The Australian Radiation Laboratory
Royal Adelaide Hospital
The American Linet Study
CONTRADICTIONS
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.4
15
The Australian Radiation Laboratory
Royal Adelaide Hospital
The American Linet Study
MISREPRESENTATIONS
3.4.1
3.4.2
3.4.3
16
USA EPA Review
Royal Adelaide Hospital
The American Linet Study
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4
EMF LIMITS RECOMMENDED BUT NOT ACTED ON
4.1
USA EPA REVIEW
4.1.1
4.1.2
4.2
Lower Microwave Limit Recommended (Safer)
Push to Increase The Australian Microwave Limit (Less Safe)
AUSTRALIAN RADIATION LABORATORY
4.2.1
4.2.2
4.2.3
4.3
5
17
Electric Blankets
Power Lines
Electric Hot Water Systems
NATIONAL COUNCIL ON RADIATION PROTECTION (USA)
CURRENT STANDARDS
18
5.1
PRESENT GUIDELINES SET BY THE NHMRC (AUST)
5.2
AUSTRALIAN MICROWAVE EXPOSURE LIMITS
5.3
WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION LIMIT CRITERIA
5.3.1
5.3.2
Induced Electricity In Humans
Induced Heat In Humans
CONCLUSIONS
19
RECOMMENDATIONS
20
APPENDIX 1 - TECHNICAL TERMS EXPLAINED
21
APPENDIX 2 -TYPICAL ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD LEVELS
22
REFERENCES
23
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SUMMARY
This report was prepared for the EMF Protection Society to investigate the current
Australian EMF exposure limits intended to limit adverse health Effects on humans.
It investigates studies done up to date and adverse health effects that they have found.
It investigates –

Criteria used to establish the current Australian guidelines
And Proposes –


More appropriate guidelines
A limit for human exposure to EMF’s of 2 milli Gauss.
5/31
An independent report investigating the criteria governing the current
Australian Electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure limits Intended to limit adverse
health effects To humans.
INTRODUCTION
This report will examine the research and chosen criteria governing the choice of
current Australian EMF exposure limits intended to limit adverse health Effects on
humans.
This report was requested by the EMF Protection Society due to their concerns that
current Australian limits are inadequate.
It is intended that in the event of adverse findings, the report and its recommendations
shall be presented to the federal and shadow minister for energy in order to precipitate
appropriate legislative action.
This report examines alternative criteria for governing EMF exposure limits, new
research, and the belief that some of the current research has been misrepresented.
This report is generally restricted to the effect of EMF’s on the human body, and not
concerned with the various sources of those fields, such as exposure to power lines,
and the use of mobile phones.
Sources for this report are studies used to  Set the current interim guidelines on human exposure to EMF’s in Australia.
Set by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
 Show previously unknown biological effects of EMF’s on the human body
 Set other country’s EMF human exposure limits.
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1
HEALTH EFFECTS OF EMF’s
1.1
LEUKEMIA
1.1.1
Power Lines
An increased risk of leukemia of 2.7 times was found for children
living within 100 metres of high-voltage transmission lines in Taipei,
Taiwan relative to the nation as a whole.(Ref 1) These fields produced
about 2mG inside houses 100 metres from the power lines.(Ref 2.)
A 1979 study in Denver found children living near power lines had
significantly higher rates of cancer than the national average.(Ref 20)
A 1984 study in New York found an abnormally high rate of leukemia
in children living near power lines.(Ref 21)
1.1.3
TV Transmitters
Telstra Australia’s study comparing suburbs around three TV
transmitter towers in Sydney with six suburbs further away, found an
increase in childhood leukemia of 61% and an increase of the death rate
due to childhood leukemia of 2.74 times.(Ref 13)
1.2
CANCER
1.2.2
Microwaves
US Air Force officers exposed to ELF EMF’s and RF microwaves
showed a significant increase in brain tumors in a 1995 study.(Ref 11)
1.2.2
Mobile Phones
An Adelaide study showed mice predisposed to cancer exposed to a cell
phone signal for one hour per day, the rate of cancer increased by over
46% (an incidence increase from 23% to 43%).(Ref 46)
1.2.3
Promotion Of Cancer
Animal studies show EMF’s increase the effects of cancer causing
agents. EMF’s may also effect DNA repair leading to increased
accumulation of mutations in critical genes.(Ref 10)
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1.3
SPECIFIC BODY PARTS EFFECTED
1.3.1
Intercellular Communication
The outer membrane of human cells act as an amplifier of
electromagnetic disturbances on their surface, which is then transmitted
down the backbone of the DNA within the cell to transmit messages.
ELF EMF’s change electric charges present on the surface of molecules
within and around cells, thus affecting the chemical processes between
and within cells.
Frequencies of 16, 42, 45, 50 to over 100Hz affect the calcium ion
binding on brain cells [and all other cells in the body (Ref 29)], making
them bound more or less tightly depending on the frequency.
[As calcium ions are one of the two most common intracellular
signaling molecules (29)], the body reactions are slowed or speeded up
making us “more awake or less awake”.(Ref 28)
1.3.2
Arrestment of Embryo Development
Professor Delgardo of Madrid found that EMF’s between 10 and
100Hz at strengths of around 2.5mG [at the embryo itself] arrests
embryo formation.
Dr’s Adey, Delgardo, and Eddlemen of New York found that ELF
EMF’s of between 10 and 100Hz interfere with the formation of a
special coating on embryo cells. This coating allow the cells to move
within the embryo to their correct position. When this process is
stopped by EMF’s, embryo formation is stopped.(Ref 28)
1.3.3
Immune System
The killing capacity of the body’s lymphocytes [or white blood cells] is
significantly reduced by exposure to EMF’s of around 60Hz. However,
this affect ceases after about fifteen minutes of exposure, but begins
again if the EMF is removed and reintroduced.(Ref 28)
A New Zealand study found that 50Hz power fields adversely affect the
human immune function.(Ref 41)
1.3.4
Asthma, Arthritis, Diabetes, and Psychological Disorders
A New Zealand study found significant increased risks for asthma,
arthritis, and type-11 diabetes, and psychological disorders.(Ref 41)
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1.3.5
Reduction In Melatonin Levels
Melatonin cleans the blood by removing highly reactive “free radicals”
which cause cancer by reacting with and damaging DNA.(Ref 31)
The Pineal gland in the brain produces Melatonin. Melatonin governs
sexual development, the bodies metabolism, sleep induction,
depression, and the circadian rhythm, [Sleeping and waking, rest and
activity (Ref 31)].(Ref 30)
Power line exposure in the order of 12mG increases the stress hormone
ACTH and reduces melatonin in the blood stream.(Ref 38)
Five studies in Washington USA show a reduction in melatonin levels
in humans exposed to EMF’s at work and at home.(Ref 24)
1.4
OTHER ADVERSE EFFECTS
1.4.1
Human Response Time
The human nervous system operates at frequencies below 20Hz and
smooth (sinusoidal) magnetic fields below this affect human reaction
time.(Ref 5)
1.4.2
Sleep Patterns
Sleep patterns are disturbed by pulsed radio signals from mobile phones
and mobile phone transmitters.(Ref 14)
1.4.3
Brainwaves
Brain waves are adversely disturbed by the pulsed radio signals from
mobile phones and transmitters.(Ref 15)
1.5
BENEFICIAL EFFECTS
1.5.1
Improved Cancer Drug Effect
EMF’s at certain frequency’s increase the effect of drugs in the
treatment of cancer.(Ref 28)
1.5.2
Improved Bone Fracture and Wound Healing
EMF’s at certain frequency’s improve and speed bone fracture healing,
and wound healing.(Ref 28)
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2
LIMITATIONS OF CURRENT STUDIES
2.1
TRANSIENTS AND HARMONIC DISTORTIONS IGNORED
2.1.1
Most Studies Exclude Transients And Distortions
Dr. David McCormick of the IIT Research Institute in Chicago
conducted experiments meant to see if harmonic transient or
intermittent EMF’s could alter pineal function in rats. He announced
that his melatonin results were negative.(Ref 26)
However The IITRI’s exposure facility could only generate
transients with frequencies of up to 2kHz.(Ref 27)
In the real world transients frequencies can reach hundreds of
kilohertz, if not the low megahertz range.(Ref 26)
Most EMF animal studies use “pure” EMF sources, without high
frequency transients and harmonic distortions that are common in
electrical power systems in the real world.(Ref 7)
2.1.2
Adverse Effects Of Transients And Distortions Shown
Less adverse effects are seen with more “pure” EMF’s.(Ref 24)
A Canadian study showed a significant link between high frequency
transients and lung cancer among electricity workers.(Ref 25)
2.1.3
Transients and Distortions Above Background Cellular Noise
People are exposed to EMF’s with transients and harmonics in our
living and working environments. Cells are effected because EMF’s are
above the cells normal noise level.(Ref 8)
Research shows signals in cells arising from transients, are significantly
higher than the background cellular noise.(Ref 34)
2.2
ELECTRIC FIELDS IGNORED
Dr. Larry Anderson’s Battelle Lab studies implicated both magnetic and
electric field as causes of cancer.(Ref 9)
A Ontario study found when both electric and magnetic fields are taken into
account, the risk of cancer in adults rose from 1.6 times (magnetic fields) to
11.2 times (magnetic and electric fields).(Ref 37)
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PREVIOUSLY UNRECOGNISED SOURCES OF EMF’S
2.3
2.3.1
Extra Low EMF Frequencies
Most EMF detectors used are not sensitive to frequencies below 3540Hz. This gives a distorted picture of exposure to these EMF’s. This
therefore compromises study results.(Ref 3)
With Low frequencies undetected and unaccounted for, control groups
are more effected by EMF’s than previously thought. This closes the
gap of exposure between Study and Control groups.(Ref 4)
2.3.2
Extra Low EMF Frequencies Filtered Out
Low frequency fields below 35-45Hz are filtered out by the meters used
in most of the EMF epidemiological studies published to date.
These are the EMDEX and AMDEX manufactured by Enertech
Consultants in Cambell, CA and the POSITRON made by Positron
Industries in Montreal, Canada
In a test the EMDEX read 5mG at 12Hz, in comparison to the F.W.
Bell Triaxial Gaussmeter (model 4080) which is more sensitive to
lower frequencies read 20mG at 12Hz.(Ref 4)
2.3.2
Rotating Car Tyre’s
EMF’s of 4mG on the drivers seat and 20mG on the rear seat have been
measured in cars doing 30 mph.
Therefore a child travelling to school in the back seat for one hour may
receive as much EMF exposure as from spending 24hrs at home.(Ref 3)
The metal cords in tyre’s are generally permanently magnetised, and
consequently give rise to EMF’s when the car is in motion.
EMF’s of up to 50mG at 5 to 2,000 Hz have also been detected.(Ref 6)
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2.4
RELATIVE RISK FACTOR
In evaluating risk, a Relative Risk factor is calculated called RR. This is the
rate for Exposed people in the study divided by the rate for the Unexposed
(The control group). A value of 1 shows no risk [change in risk], Less than 1
means reduced risk, while greater than 1 is increased risk.
In a Denver Study in the USA - Ref 20 the RR was 1.5
In almost all studies relating an “electrical occupation” and cancer rates, the
RR varied between 0.7 and 2.0 [an average of 1.35].
A Scandinavian study conducted in the early 1990’s showed a RR factor of
about 2.(Ref 22)
Relative Risk Factors much below 1.5 are generally said to be too low to
worry about, but this is only true if there is a large difference in exposures to
the risk between control and “exposed” groups.
With EMF’s these low Relative Risk Factors represent a more significant
effect as both the “control” groups and exposed groups are both exposed to
relatively large doses of EMF’s.
12/31
3
ADMISSIONS, CONTRADICTIONS & MISREPRESENTATIONS
3.1
ADVERSE HEALTH EFFECT FINDINGS
3.1.1
The NCRP (USA)
There is a connection between ELF EMF exposures and disruption of
normal biological processes.
There is a link between EMF’s and –
.
Childhood and adult leukemia and brain cancer
Child deformities and other reproductive anomalies.
Adverse nervous and hormonal responses causing disease.
Incorrect development of the nervous system.
Cancer and Tumor development.
Gene mutation.
Reduction of the natural defense response of T-Cells.
Changes in psychosexual response.
Melatonin reduction
The evidence points to human health hazards in common exposures to
EMF’s, particularly magnetic fields exceeding 2mG and electric fields
between 10-100 Volts per metre.(Ref 39)
3.1.2
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
On June 24, 1992, a working group of the NIEHS voted 19 to 9 in
favour of categorising ELF EMF’s as possible carcinogens, based on
results of studies of children exposed at home, and workers exposed on
the job.(Ref 23)
13/31
3.2
ADMISSIONS
3.2.1
The National Health and Medical Research Council (Aust)
[The NHMRC guidelines of 1,000mG and 5,000mG] are not intended
to provide protection against possible cancer due to continued exposure
at the lower field levels implicated.” (Ref 40) [see 5.1 below]
3.2.2
The Australian Radiation Laboratory
 “The overall pattern of results to date is that exposure to magnetic fields
may increase slightly the risk of cancer.”
 “Studies have shown that WEAK [electric] fields can have effects on
several biological processes. They alter hormone and enzyme levels and
the rate of movement of some chemicals through living tissue.”
 “[Exposure to EMF’s] resulted in an increased cancer incidence in
laboratory animals.”
 “..studies have reported that children living near high current
transmission and distribution lines had a higher cancer incidence than
other children.”
 “..adults living near high current transmission and distribution lines had
a higher incidence [of cancer] than other adults.”
 “Over thirty studies have reported that adults, working in higher than
average magnetic fields, had higher incidences of cancers (usually
leukemia, brain tumors or breast cancers) than other adults.”
 “At this stage, any action to reduce exposure must rest with the
individual.”(Ref 17)
3.2.3
Royal Adelaide Hospital
“Increased incidence of cancer, in some studies is associated with
residential proximity to high-current power lines, resulting from
exposure to high-frequency transients.
In our study the magnetic fields were switched on and off in a manner
that minimised the production of transients.”(Ref 32)
3.2.4
The American Linet Study
Linet study researchers stated four times that there is a statistically
significant increase in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in children
exposed to powerline magnetic EMF’s in excess of 3mG.(Ref 35)
14/31
3.3
CONTRADICTIONS
3.3.1
The Australian Radiation Laboratory
“There is no evidence that these [magnetic] fields cause immediate,
permanent harm.”
“the scientific evidence does not indicate that exposure to 50Hz EMF’s
found near power lines is a hazard to human health.”(Ref 18)
[see 3.2.2 above]
3.3.2
Royal Adelaide Hospital
“No increase in incidence of a cancer of the immune system called
Lymphoma was detected in mice after prolonged exposure to magnetic
fields of the type emitted by electric power lines and equipment”.
(Ref 32) [see 3.2.3 above]
3.3.3
The American Linet Study
The researches of the Linet study dismissed a 24% increase in leukemia
risk for children exposed to “especially high magnetic fields” as a
“statistical fluke”.
This was done because they had arbitrarily set a 2mG level as a cut off
limit, and any levels above this were thus ignored.(Ref 35)
[see 3.2.4 above]
15/31
3.4
MISREPRESENTATIONS
3.4.1
USA EPA Review
A review of current research for the EPA in America concluded that
EMF’s from power lines, microwaves and radiowaves be declared
probable carcinogens.
The White House and the Air Force declared that the report should not
be published on the grounds of national security and such a report
would alarm the public.
The administrators of the EPA changed the conclusions to say there
was no proven effect.(Ref 11)
3.4.2
Royal Adelaide Hospital
“No increase in incidence of a cancer of the immune system called
Lymphoma was detected in mice after prolonged exposure to magnetic
fields of the type emitted by electric power lines and equipment”.
(Ref 32) [see 3.2.3 above]
3.4.3
The American Linet Study
The researches of the Linet study dismissed a 24% increase in leukemia
risk for children exposed to “especially high magnetic fields” as a
“statistical fluke”.
This was done because they had arbitrarily set a 2mG level as a cut off
limit, and any levels above this were thus ignored.(Ref 35)
If a level of 3mG had been chosen as their arbitrary limit, the
conclusions would have been that there IS a significant risk.(Ref 36)
16/31
4
EMF LIMITS RECOMMENDED BUT NOT ACTED ON
4.1
USA EPA REVIEW
4.1.1
Lower Microwave Limit Recommended (Safer)
Dr. Neil. J. Cherry recommended that the limit on exposure to RF
microwaves be limited to 0.1 micro watts per cm2.(Ref 11)
4.1.2
Push to Increase The Australian Microwave Limit (Less Safe)
Current limits in Australia are set at 200 micro watts per cm2, but a
push is being made by industry for it to be raised to 500 micro watts per
cm2 for mobile phone transmitter cell sites.(Ref 12)
4.2
AUSTRALIAN RADIATION LABORATORY
4.2.1
Electric Blankets
“Using an electric blanket to warm the bed and switching it off before
climbing in will virtually eliminate what could be significant exposure.”
4.2.2
Power Lines
“Locating bedrooms towards the rear of the house reduces dramatically
the exposure due to distribution lines in front of the house.”
4.2.3
Electric Hot Water Systems
“Moving a bed away from an outside wall which has an electric hot
water service on the other side will also reduce exposures.”(Ref 17)
4.3
NATIONAL COUNCIL ON RADIATION PROTECTION (USA)
The NCRP recommends a 2mG exposure limit to magnetic EMF’s.
Over a three year period, exposures in existing homes schools and offices
should be reduced to 10mG.
After six years, there should be an option to establish a 5mG limit.
After ten years, a 2mG limit should be considered.(Ref 39)
17/31
5
CURRENT STANDARDS
5.1
PRESENT GUIDELINES SET BY THE NHMRC (AUST)
“The recommended magnetic field exposure limit for members of the public
(24 hour exposure) is 1,000 mG and for occupational exposure (the whole
working day) is 5,000 mG.”
“the above NHMRC limits do not apply to the avoidance of cancer risk
resulting from chronic exposure to 50Hz magnetic fields.” (Ref 18)
5.2
AUSTRALIAN MICROWAVE EXPOSURE LIMITS
The Australian standard 2772 (1985) sets the maximum safe levels of
exposure to microwaves to persons on or about the craft (boat containing
radar’s) to average levels not exceeding 200 micro Watts per cm2 or to peak
levels of 1,000,000 micro Watts per cm2.(Ref 19)
5.3
WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION LIMIT CRITERIA
5.3.1
Induced Electricity In Humans
The WHO established its standards to limit electricity induced in the
body generally to 10mA per m2. For this reason the EMF limits are
relatively high and do not take into account adverse health effects.
One criteria is simply stated “If RF fields induce currents significantly
exceeding [the] background level in the body, there is a possibility of
adverse health consequences.”(Ref 22)
5.3.2
Induced Heat In Humans
Similarly another criteria used is “localised RF exposure should not
cause any local temperature increases in excess of 1oC.” This again
does not take into account adverse health effects. (Ref 22)
18/31
CONCLUSIONS
RELATIVE RISK
The excuse of using the Relative Risk Factor to ignore results has been abused when
results are clearly above a factor of 1. The risk factor must be more carefully judged
when comparing to the soup of EMF’s effecting the control group
Studies are looking for effects from specific EMF’s within a soup of EMF’s our living
and working environments are submerged in, making it difficult to detect what would
normally be significant effects.
It is like trying to detect the difference between a smoker of 2 packs a day with a
smoker of 3 packs a day, and saying smoking 3 packs a day doesn’t carry much risk
because there is not much difference from smoking 2 packs per day.
IGNORED AND MISUNDERSTOOD EXPOSURE
A rural electricity meter reader (deemed an electrical worker) driving around in a car
all day will have a significant magnetic field exposure below 35Hz from the vehicles
tyre’s, but relatively little exposure at power frequencies.
Yet he is commonly reported as being an electricity worker, and thus assumed to have
more exposure to power supply EMF’s than the general public.
EMF EFFECTS ON BODILY PROCESSES NOT PROPERLY UNDERSTOOD
It is clear that different frequencies can have vastly different effects, some beneficial,
most adverse, It is clear that current studies have not adequately discovered the vast
range of effects, the mechanisms effected or processes taking place within the human
body.
Moving in and out of ELF EMF’s is more dangerous to white blood cells than staying
within the EMF all day.
CURRENT LIMITS NOT ADEQUATE
It is clear that alternating EMF levels much above 2mG do have adverse health effects.
Having such important exposure limits as guidelines that do not have to be followed,
is not satisfactory.
19/31
RECOMMENDATIONS
EMF EFFECTS ON BODILY PROCESSES NOT PROPERLY UNDERSTOOD
More studies are required to discover –
1.
The effects of different frequency’s of EMF’s.
2.
The effects of transients and harmonic distortions.
3.
The effects of electric fields.
4.
The wide range of effects EMF’s have on the body.
IGNORED AND MISUNDERSTOOD EXPOSURE
Action should be taken to reduce EMF’s from current common sources by 1.
Degaussing car tyre’s and the use of nonmagnetic wire in car tyre’s.
2.
Moving High Voltage Power lines, Radio & TV Towers, and mobile
phone cell sites away from hospitals, schools, homes and where people work.
3.
Burying Power lines, gaining the benefits of shielding from steel wire
armoring around underground cables, and reduction in EMF radiation by the
partial self canceling of magnetic fields between cables.
4.
Electric blankets should be made to automatically switch off when a person
is lying on them.
5.
Public awareness should be raised so people can actively reduce their
exposure such as by locating bedrooms away from power lines.
CURRENT LIMITS NOT ADEQUATE
1.
The protection of the general public in Australia should be raised by
eventually changing the limit on electromagnetic fields to 2 milli Gauss
and immediately establishing a limit on electric fields to 100 Volts per metre.
The recommendations made by the NCRP USA should be implemented –

Over a three year period, exposures in existing homes schools and offices
should be reduced to 10mG.

After six years, there should be an option to establish a 5mG limit.

After ten years, a limit of 2mG should be considered.
2.
These changes in the exposure limits should be legislated and incorporated
into the Australian Standards.
20/31
APPENDIX 1
TECHNICAL TERMS EXPLAINED
General terms
F
A Frequency implies that a change in direction of an item
being observed has taken place.
EMF
“Electromagnetic Fields” - for the purpose of this report means
electromagnetic AND electric fields.
ELF
Extra Low Frequency
i.e. between 0Hz up to 300 Hz (cycles per second)
RF
EMF’s at Radio Frequency’s
Microwave
Electromagnetic waves at microwave frequency’s
Units of measure
Gauss – G
a measure of magnetic field strength
i.e. the strength of attraction of a magnet.
Amp – A
a measure of the volume of flow of electricity by the number
of electrons passing a given point in a given time.
Volt – V
a measure of electrical pressure,
i.e. the difference in the number of electrons in a given area
(minus) as opposed to another area (plus).
Volts per metre a measure of electric field strength.
i.e. electrical pressure per metre between two points.
Watt – W
a measure of power delivered or consumed
i.e. the amount of energy delivered or consumed.
Hertz – Hz
Cycles per second e.g. the 50Hz power supply in your home
changes direction 50 times every second.
Multipliers
Mega – M
the unit of measure multiplied by 1,000,000
e.g. 1 Mega Hertz (MHz) is 1 million Hertz
Kilo – k
the unit of measure multiplied by 1,000
e.g. 1 Kilo Hertz (kHz) is 1 thousand Hertz
milli – m
the unit of measure divided by 1,000
e.g. 1 milli Amp (mA) is 1 thousandth of an Amp
micro
the unit of measure divided by 1,000,000
e.g. 1 micro Amp is 1 millionth of an Amp
21/31
APPENDIX 2
TYPICAL ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD LEVELS
Typical 50Hz Power, Magnetic Field Strengths Around The Home. (Ref 42)
Background
Background near an Electrical Substation
At Wall next to Electrical Substation
Computer @ 1 meter
Clothes Iron @ handle
Clothes Iron @ 1/3 meter
Home Welding Transformer at no load @ 1 meter
Home Welding Transformer at full load @ 1 meter
Angle Grinder @ hand
Drill @ forefinger
Drill @ wrist
Electric Blanket
1.2 mG
5 mG
14 mG
1 mG
80 mG
8 mG
15 mG
150 mG
700 mG
7,000 mG
2,000 mG
48 mG
Typical Magnetic Field Strengths Near High Current Power Lines. (Ref 18)
Background around the home
Background around the home near power lines
Background under power lines
0.1 to 2.5 mG
5 to 10 mG
60-100 mG
Typical RF Field Power Levels Per Metre Square In A Large City From Sources
Such as Mobile Phones, Radio Transmission, TV Transmission etc. (Ref 43)
From the Sun
Average Background
1% of the population exposed to RF fields exceeding
0.01 milli Watts per m2
5 milli Watts per m2
10 milli Watts per m2
Typical Frequencies given off by computer VDU’s and TV’s. (Ref 44)
Power Supply
Vertical Deflection Coils
Horizontal Deflection Coils
50 Hz
50 to 90 Hz
15-35 kHz
Various Radio, TV and Microwave Frequencies. (Ref 45)
AM Radio and TV
FM Radio and TV
Mobile Phones
Microwave Ovens and Transmitters
530 kHz to 170 kHz
88 MHz to 108 MHz
800 MHz
3,000 MHz and upward
22/31
REFERENCES
1. Dr. Chung-Yi Li of the College of Medicine at Fu-Jen Catholic University, Taipei,
and Dr’s Wei-Chin Lee and Ruey Shiung Lin of National Taiwan University, Taipei.
Reported in the February Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (40,
pp.144-147,1998).
2. Li, Lin and Dr. Gilles Theriault of McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
Reported in MicroWave News M/J97.
3. Samuel Milham, MD
2318 Gravelly Beach Loop, NW Olympia, WA 98502.
James B. Hatfield, PE Hatfield and Dawson Consulting Engineers Inc.
9500 Greenwood Acve. N, Seattle, WA 98103.
Richard A. Tell of Richard Tell Associates Inc.
8309 Garnet Canyon Lane Las Vegas, NV 89129.
4. Dr William Kaune of EM Factors in Richland, WA.
5. H. Friedman, R.O. Becker and C.H. Bachman, “Effects of Magnetic Fields on
Reaction Time Performance,” Nature, 213, pp.949-950, 1967.
6. K. Vedholm and Y.K. Hamnerius, “Personal Exposure from Low Frequency
Electromagnetc Fields in Automobiles,” 2nd World Congress for Electricity and
Magnetism in Biology and Medicine, Bologna, Italy, 1997.
7. Kolomytkin, 1994, “Response of Brain Receptor Systems to Microwave Energy
Exposure”, “On The Nature of Electromagnetic Field Interactions with Biological
Systems” Ed. Dr. Allen Frey, Randomline, Potomac, MD, Pub R.G. Landes Company.
8. Dr. Michael Repacholi of the World Health Organisation, Microwave News J/A95
and S/O95
9. Dr. Maria Stuchly, University of Victoria, Canada, peer reviewer of Dr. Larry
Anderson’s, “Battelle Labs Studies”, Reported in Microwave news, J/A96.
10. Dr. Jukka Juutilainen, of Finland, at the Bioelectromagnetics Society Workshop at
the Catholic University of America in Washington 6 Feb 1997
11. Dr. Neil J. Cherry, Lincoln University Canterbury New Zealand. “1989-1990
Review of current research” for EPA USA.
23/31
12. Current Australian standard 2772 (1985) sets the maximum safe levels of exposure
to microwaves to persons on or about the craft (boat’s containing radar’s) to average
levels not exceeding 200 micro Watts per cm2 or to peak levels of 1,000,000 micro
Watts per cm2
13. Telstra Australia, “The Hocking Study”, Research into the health effects of TV
transmitter towers in Sydney,
14. Mann and Roschke, “Effects of Pulsed High-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields on
Human Sleep”, Neuropsychobiology 1996 Vol 33 pp 41-47.
15. Von Klitzing, “Low-Frequency Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields Influence EEG of
Man”, Physica Medica, April-June 1995 Vol 11 pp77-80
16. Dr. W. Ross Adey M.D.,1979,”Neurophysiologic Effects of Radio Frequency and
Microwave Radiation”, Bulletin of the New York Academy of Medicine, Vol. 55,
No 11 pp 1079-1093.
17. Commonwealth of Australia – Australian Radiation Laboratory, 1995, “50Hz
Electric and Magnetic Fields”, www.health.gov.au/arl/is_idx.htm
18. Commonwealth of Australia – Australian Radiation Laboratory, 1995, “The
Controversy Over Electromagnetic Fields and Possible Adverse Health Effects”,
www.health.gov.au/arl/is_idx.htm
19. Commonwealth of Australia – Australian Radiation Laboratory, 1995, “Marine
Radar’s Mounted on Small Craft”, www.health.gov.au/arl/is_idx.htm
20. Nancy Wertheimer and E. Leeper, 1979,”Electrical Wiring Configurations and
Childhood Cancer”, Am J Epidemiol., 109:273-284. Denver Colorado Study.
21. Dr James Stebbings, (Acute Mieolecytic leukemia) “New York Power Lines
Project”, Argonne National Laboratory, Chicago, USA.
22. World Health Organisation, Elfrpt.htm, Fact182.htm, Fact193.htm, www.who.ch/
23. Special Report: “NIEHS Panel Finds EMF’s Are Possible Human Carcinogens”,
NIEHS_PANEL.DOC, Microwave News N/D92.
24. Dr. Larry Anderson, “Battelle Labs Studies”, Richland,WA, as reported at the
third NIEHS science symposium, Phoenix, USA.
24/31
25. Dr Gilles Theriault, McGill University, Montreal, Canada, as reported in the
Microwave News N/D/94.
26. Dr. Antonio Sastre, Midwest Research Institute, Kansas City, MO, Phoenix
meeting.
27. William Feero, Electric Research and Management Inc, designer of the IITRI
facility.
28. Dr. Ross Adey M.D., of the VA Medical Centre, Research Service, Loma Linda,
California, USA, ”The Health Effects of Electromagnetic Radiation”, the Science
Show Broadcast 26.5.84 at 1900hrs Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
29. “Cell-To Cell Communication Via Chemical Signaling”, Cells: Their Structures
and Functions, Encyclopedia Britannica, 1998.
30. “Pineal Gland”, Encyclopedia Britannica, 1998.
31. “Circadian Rhythm”, Encyclopedia Britannica, 1998.
32. A.W. Harris, and A. Basten of the Royal Adelaide Hospital ELF Mice Study (33).
33. the Royal Adelaide Hospital ELF Mice Study, “A Test of Lymphoma Induction by
Long-Term Exposure of Eu-Pim1 Transgenic Mice to 50Hz Magnetic Fields
Radiation Research”, 1998.
34. Antonio Sastre, “Residential Magnetic Field Transients: How Do Their Induced
Transmembrane Voltages Compare to Thermal Noise?” Paper No. A-33, DOE, 1994
G.B. Johnston, R. Kavet, “Residential Magnetic Field Transients. Effect of
Residential Services on Fields Arising from Distribution Line Capacitor Bank
Switching.” Paper No. P-130A, BEMS, 1995.
35. M. S. Linet, E. E. Hatch, R. A. Kleinerman, L. L. Robinson, W. T. Kaune, D. R.
Freidman, R. K. Severson, C. M. Haines, C. T. Hartstock, S. Niwa, S. Wacholder, R.
E. Tarone, “Residential Exposure to Magnetic Fields and Acute Lymphoblastic
Leukemia in Children”, as reported in the New England Journal of Medicine, 1997.
36. Sam Milham, Washington Sate Epidemiologist.
37. Dr. Anthony Miller, Toronto University, Canada, “Ontario Hydro Adult Worker
Study”, 1996
25/31
38. D. R. Maisch, “Melatonin, Tamoxifen, 50-60Hz Electromagnetic Fields and Breast
Cancer: A Discussion Paper.” Tabled in the Australian Senate, 29 October 1997.
39. United States National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements
(NCRP) Draft report guidelines from “Review of the Biological Effects of Extremely
Low Frequency (ELF) EMF’s.
40. Dr. Keith Lokan, Australian Radiation Laboratory, “Conference Paper”, Radiation
Protection in Australia, Vol9, No.4., 1991.
41. I. L. Beale, R. J. Booth, N. E. Pearce, “Chronic Health Problems in Adults Living
Near High-Voltage Transmission Lines: Evidence for a Dose-Response Relation with
Magnetic Field Exposure” as reported in Bioelectromagnetics, 18: 584-594, 1997.
42. Bruce Ayling Electronic Engineer, CSIRO, ”The Health Effects of
Electromagnetic Radiation”, the Science Show Broadcast 26.5.84 at 1900hrs
Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
43. World Health Organisation, Fact183.htm, www.who.ch/
44. World Health Organisation, Fact201.htm, www.who.ch/
45. J . H. Kilar, ES&H Coordinator, ECT-EE, “Low Frequency Electromagnetic
Fields and Your Health”, Intra-Laboratory Memo, Sept 1997, Argonne National
Laboratory, Chicago, USA.
46. Dr Michael Repacholi, Prof Tony Basten, Dr Alan Harris, Val Gebski – Royal
Adelaide Hospital study into cellular phones and cancer involving mice, funded by
Telstra published April 1997. See Microwave News VolXVII No.3 May/June “Digital
Mobile Phone Radiation Boosts Cancer Rate in Mice” avail
HTTP://www.microwavenews.com/m-97vws.pdf
26/31
SUMMARY PAPER
Adverse Health Effects of EMF's in our living and working environments
Adverse Health effects of Electromagnetic Fields. These fields are produced by things
such as powerlines, TV and radio transmitters and mobile phones and mobile phone
transmitters.
Electromagnetic Fields are called EMF's for short, are produced by electricity and
include two types.
Electric EMF's and Magnetic EMF's
Electric EMF's are like what makes hair stand on end when mad scientists touch their
high voltage generators.
Electric fields are measured in volts per metre which measures how much electrical
pressure exists between two points.
Magnetic EMF's which are like the magnetism from a magnet which attracts metal
and the earth's magnetic field which attracts a compass needle
The strength of magnetic fields are measured in GAUSS, a measure of magnetic field
strength. It is named after Karl Friedrich Gauss, a man who did pioneering work in
electromagnetism.
It is also measured in milli Gauss which is one thousandth of a gauss
Man Made EMF's Are Alternating
The earth's magnetic field is said to be about1 Gauss, but it is static as it is acting in
one direction only.
The main problem with man made EMF's is that they are alternating, which means
they are changing direction many times a second.
For example the electric power in your home and in the powerlines around suburbs
changes direction 50 times every second or at 50Hertz.
This means that the EMF's that electric power gives off is also changing direction at
50 Hertz.
27/31
It has been found that these alternating magnetic and electric EMF's have
adverse heath effects in the human body.
Leukemia
From powerlines with magnetic field strengths of between 2mG and 60 to 100mG at
50Hz
Cancer
Microwaves from aeroplane and boat radars, at 3000 MHz and upwards and mobile
phones at around 800 MHz.
Arrestment of Embryo Development
Between 10 to 100Hz at 2.5mG at the embryo itself. The EMF's affect a special
coating on cells within the embryo which allows the cells to move to their correct
position within the embryo. With damage to this coating the cells no longer move and
development stops.
Immune System
50Hz EMF's Reduces the white blood cells ability to kill invading bacteria and
neutralise foreign substances.
Melatonin levels
Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in the brain. Melatonin levels in the blood
rise during sleep. Melatonin cleans the blood of highly reactive substances called free
radicals which damage anything they come into contact with. This damage can cause
cancer.
Melatonin also governs sexual development, the bodies metabolism, depression, and
the sleeping and waking cycle.
Intercellular Communication
EMF's effect the way cells talk to each other in the body thus our bodies reactions and
processes are speeded up or slowed down making us seem more awake or less awake.
Brainwaves
EMF's also modify our brainwaves
28/31
Sources of EMF's
Powerlines in the street and in the home
(These EMF's are mainly a problem when there is large power use from them)
TV and Radio Transmitters
Radar's on boats and aircraft
Mobile phones and mobile phone transmitting towers
Car tyre's with magnetised metal cords when they rotate give off 4 to 50mG from 6
to 2000Hz on the back seat.
Electric Blankets
Background EMF's are everywhere
One big problem with studies to date is that so called control groups are exposed to
nearly as much EMF's as the "exposed groups" Therefore it is like trying to detect the
difference between a smoker of 3 packs of cigarettes a day and a smoker of 2 packs a
day.
It is clear however that exposure to alternating magnetic EMF's of much more than
2mG and is a health hazards, and we should all do our best to minimise our exposure
where ever possible.
This can be done in many ways such as turning off electric blankets before getting into
bed, situating bedrooms away from powerlines at the front of houses, and high power
devices in the home such as electric hot water systems, and main power cables.
29/31
TECHNICAL TERMS EXPLAINED
General terms
F
A Frequency implies that a change in direction of an item
being observed has taken place.
EMF
“Electromagnetic Fields” - for our purpose this means
electromagnetic AND electric fields.
ELF
Extra Low Frequency
i.e. between 0Hz up to 300 Hz (cycles per second)
RF
EMF’s at Radio Frequency’s
Microwave
Electromagnetic waves at microwave frequency’s
Units of measure
Gauss – G
a measure of magnetic field strength
i.e. the strength of attraction of a magnet.
Amp – A
a measure of the volume of flow of electricity by the number
of electrons passing a given point in a given time.
Volt – V
a measure of electrical pressure,
i.e. the difference in the number of electrons in a given area
(minus) as opposed to another area (plus).
Volts per metre a measure of electric field strength.
i.e. electrical pressure per metre between two points.
Watt – W
a measure of power delivered or consumed
i.e. the amount of energy delivered or consumed.
Hertz – Hz
Cycles per second e.g. the 50Hz power supply in your home
changes direction 50 times every second.
Multipliers
Mega – M
the unit of measure multiplied by 1,000,000
e.g. 1 Mega Hertz (MHz) is 1 million Hertz
Kilo – k
the unit of measure multiplied by 1,000
e.g. 1 Kilo Hertz (kHz) is 1 thousand Hertz
milli – m
the unit of measure divided by 1,000
e.g. 1 milli Amp (mA) is 1 thousandth of an Amp
micro
the unit of measure divided by 1,000,000
e.g. 1 micro Amp is 1 millionth of an Amp
30/31
TYPICAL ALTERNATING ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD LEVELS
Typical 50Hz Power, Magnetic Field Strengths Around The Home
Background
Background near an Electrical Substation
At Wall next to Electrical Substation
Computer @ 1 meter
Clothes Iron @ handle
Clothes Iron @ 1/3 meter
Home Welding Transformer at no load @ 1 meter
Home Welding Transformer at full load @ 1 meter
Angle Grinder @ hand
Drill @ forefinger
Drill @ wrist
Electric Blanket
1.2 mG
5 mG
14 mG
1 mG
80 mG
8 mG
15 mG
150 mG
700 mG
7,000 mG
2,000 mG
48 mG
Typical Magnetic Field Strengths Near High Current Power Lines
Background around the home normally
Background around the home near power lines
Background under power lines
0.1 to 2.5 mG
5 to 10 mG
60-100 mG
Typical RF Field Power Levels Per Metre Square In A Large City From Sources
Such as Mobile Phones, Radio Transmission, TV Transmission etc.
From the Sun (not alternating)
Average Background
1% of the population exposed to RF fields exceeding
0.01 milli Watts per m2
5 milli Watts per m2
10 milli Watts per m2
Typical Frequencies given off by computer VDU’s and TV’s
Power Supply
Vertical Deflection Coils
Horizontal Deflection Coils
50 Hz
50 to 90 Hz
15-35 kHz
Various Radio, TV and Microwave Frequencies
AM Radio and TV
FM Radio and TV
Mobile Phones
Microwave Ovens and Transmitters
530 kHz to 170 kHz
88 MHz to 108 MHz
800 MHz
3,000 MHz and upward
31/31