FAQ's on EMF (Electromagnetic Field)
If you have any additional questions, please
contact Paul DeFrank.
What is EMF?
EMF is an acronym for Electromagnetic Field.
What does it do?
In an electromagnetic field there are actually two fields created: an electric
field and a magnetic field. The strength of the electric field depends on
the voltage being carried, while the magnetic field strength depends on the
amount of current being carried (amperage). While it is easy to shield against
the electric current, it is much more difficult to shield against magnetic
fields.
Are there health concerns?
For decades, debate has been
wide spread in regard to the health factors associated with transmission
lines and exposure to EMF. Based on the totality of the evidence available,
there seems to be no conclusive evidence that residential exposure to electric
and magnetic fields produce cancer. Below are links to highly regarded institutions
and their research findings about EMF including the Medical College of Wisconsin,
the National Academy of Sciences, and the National Cancer Institute.
Do I have EMFs in my Home?
Electric charges create electric fields. Electric charges which move (i.e.,
electric current) create magnetic fields. An appliance that is plugged in,
and therefore connected to a source of electricity, has an electric field
even when the appliance is turned off. To produce a magnetic field, however,
the appliance must be not only plugged in, but also operating, so that the
current is flowing.
The electric current we use in our everyday lives produces certain kinds of electric and magnetic fields. There are many other kinds of electric and magnetic fields as well, found throughout nature. The term "electromagnetic" field implies that the electric and magnetic fields are interrelated.
These fields can be characterized by either their wavelength or their frequency, which are related. The wavelength describes how far it is between one peak on the wave and the next peak. The frequency, measured in hertz, describes how many wave peaks pass by in one second of time.
What does State Law say?
Florida State Statute 62-814.450 (3) requires that "the maximum electric
field at the edge of the transmission line Right of Way or at the property
boundary of a new substation shall not exceed 2.00kV/m" (kilovolts/meter).
It further requires that " the maximum magnetic field at the edge of
a 230kV or smaller transmission line Right of Way or at the property boundary
of a new substation serving such lines shall not exceed 150 milliGauss. The
City of Tallahassee is responsible for meeting these standards, and these
guidelines are strictly adhered to throughout our electrical system.
Links to Additional Information
- The National Academies
- National Cancer Institute Magnetic Field Exposure and Cancer Studies
- National Cancer Institute Breast Cancer and the Environment Studies
- Medical College of Wisconsin - Power Lines and Cancer FAQs