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In today’s technologically advanced workplaces, electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are an invisible but pervasive presence. From computers and Wi-Fi routers to industrial machinery and medical imaging equipment, sources of EMFs are virtually everywhere. While EMFs are a natural part of our environment, high levels of exposure to human-made sources of EMFs can pose health risks. Both employers and employees should understand these risks and how to mitigate them to ensure a safe working environment.
In this guide to EMF safety at work, you’ll learn which jobs are exposed to the highest levels of EMFs, typical EMF levels in office environments, laws and guidelines regulating EMF exposure in workplaces, and tips for how to make your workplace safer.
In 2019, a group of researchers created the job-exposure matrix (JEM), which is a database and coding system showing which occupations have the highest exposure to EMFs. They looked at different types of EMFs, including radiofrequency, electric fields, and magnetic fields.
Their study showed that occupations with the highest exposure to radiofrequency are:
These professions all use devices that rely on radio waves such as navigation radar, telecommunication antennas, and two-way radios.
For electric fields and magnetic fields, the occupations most exposed are:
Even if you don’t work in these fields, you could still be exposed to high levels of EMFs. For example, electricians, radio transmission technicians, MRI technicians, radiologists, workers in factories using induction heating, broadcast engineers, railway workers, and laboratory workers may also be at risk of high EMF exposure.
You don’t have to work in a specific environment to be exposed to EMFs, though. Office buildings can also have high levels of EMFs if workers are surrounded by electronics like laptops, computers, servers, and Wi-Fi routers.
The EMF levels in an office depend on how many and what kind of electronic devices you’re using. The office layout and proximity to EMF sources are also factors.
The WHO’s International EMF Project gathers information about EMFs and helps create international standards for safe EMF levels. It uses four bands in the electric and magnetic fields frequency ranges to assess health and environmental impacts. These ranges apply to workplaces and include:
What do all those numbers mean and how dangerous are these frequencies for your workplace? Here are some examples of sources of each type of frequency commonly found in offices:
Office equipment and building infrastructure are typical sources of static frequencies. These are very low magnetic fields that are primarily influenced by the Earth’s geomagnetic field and static charges from equipment.
Electrical wiring, computers, monitors, and office equipment are all common sources of ELFs. Levels tend to increase near electrical panels and transformers.
IFs usually come from computer screens and other similar digital devices. They’re lower than ELFs but can still be present at noticeable levels when very close to the devices.
Wi-Fi routers, mobile phones, cordless phones, and Bluetooth devices are common examples of RF sources in offices. However, RF levels can decrease significantly with distance from the source.
Regular monitoring and adopting good practices, such as maintaining a distance from high-EMF sources and using shielding where necessary, can help manage and reduce exposure levels.
Many countries have recognized the potential danger of EMFs on the job. As a result, they’ve created regulations designed to protect workers from potential health risks associated with exposure to EMFs. Here’s an overview of some key regulations and guidelines:
The European Union passed Directive 2013/35/EU, which sets minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to risks arising from EMFs. It also establishes exposure limit values and action levels for EMFs. Employers must also assess and control EMF exposure in the workplace.
At the international level, two key organizations that have created EMF guidelines are the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The independent, non-profit ICNIRP issued its latest set of guidelines in 2020 and it serves as a basis for employers worldwide.
The WHO funds research on EMFs in the workplace and publishes guidelines for limiting EMF exposure. It also supports countries working to develop national-level EMF policies.
Several countries have created national-level legislation or guidelines for workplace EMF safety. A few of the most notable regulations are:
You can check this interactive map from the WHO to see which countries have active legislation concerning EMF safety and whether the guidelines are mandatory, recommended, or voluntary.
Although these guidelines and regulations may vary slightly, they all contain employer requirements (or strong recommendations) concerning EMF safety at work. The common themes are:
Reducing EMF exposure at work involves a combination of practical measures, equipment adjustments, and personal habits. As an employer, you have several ways to make your work environment safer for your team:
As an employee, you can also take actions to lower your EMF exposure on the job. Use an EMF-blocking phone case, laptop shield, or other accessories that neutralize EMFs. You can also try to minimize your overall use of personal electronic devices when you’re at work.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of employees in environments with potential EMF exposure is a critical responsibility for employers. Certain jobs, such as those in the electrical, telecommunications, medical, and industrial sectors, carry higher risks of EMF exposure. Even typical office settings can present EMF challenges that need to be managed effectively.
By understanding the sources and levels of EMFs, employers can implement practical measures to minimize exposure. Regular assessments, proper workspace design, use of shielding techniques, and comprehensive employee training can promote better EMF safety. By staying informed and proactive, employers can create safer work environments that protect employees from potential health risks associated with EMF exposure.
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