Are EMFs Hazardous to Our Health?
Can electromagnetic fields (EMF) from power lines, home wiring, airport and military radar,
substations, transformers, computers and appliances cause brain tumors, leukemia, birth defects,
miscarriages, chronic fatigue, headaches, cataracts, heart problems, stress. nausea, chest pain,
forgetfulness, cancer and other health problems?
Numerous studies have produced contradictory results, yet some experts are convinced that the
threat is real. Dr. David Carpenter, Dean at the School of Public Health, State University of New
York believes it is likely that up to 30% of all childhood cancers come from exposure to EMFs.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns "There is reason for concern" and advises
prudent avoidance". Martin Halper, the EPA's Director of Analysis and Support says "I have never
seen a set of epidemiological studies that remotely approached the weight of evidence that we're
seeing with EMFs. Clearly there is something here."
Concern over EMFs exploded after Paul Brodeur wrote a series of articles in the New Yorker
Magazine in June 1989. Because of Paul Brodeur's reputation. His articles had a catalytic effect on
scientists, reporters and concerned people throughout the world.
In November 1989, the Department of Energy reported that "It has now become generally accepted
that there are, indeed, biological effects due to field exposure."
The EMF issue gained more publicity in 1990 when alarming reports appeared in Time, the Wall
Street Journal, Business Week and popular computer publications. ABC's Ted Koppel and CBS's
Dan Rather both aired special segments on EMFs.
In addition to the long-term health concerns, buying a house with high fields will be an economic
disaster. In a few years, when power line radiation is as well known as asbestos and radon, a
house with high fields will be practically impossible to sell. Already there are hundreds of lawsuits
regarding EMFs and property devaluation.
EPA Says the Threat Is Real
By 1990, over one hundred studies had been conducted worldwide. Of these, at least two dozen
epidemiological studies on humans indicated a link between EMFs and serious health problems. In
response to public pressure, the Environmental Protection Agency IEPA) began reviewing and
evaluating the available literature.
In a draft report issued in March 1990, the EPA recommended that EMFs be classified as a Class B
carcinogen -- -a "probable human carcinogen and joined the ranks of formaldehyde, DDT, dioxins
and PCBs.
After the EPA draft report was released, utility, military and computer lobbyists came down hard on
the EPA. The EPA's final revision did NOT classify EMFs as a Class B carcinogen Rather, the
following explanation was added:"
At this time such a characterization regarding the link between cancer and exposure to EMFs is not
appropriate because the basic nature of the interaction between EMFs and biological processes
leading to cancer is not understood."
Curiously, this rather unusual logic appears on the same page as the following: "In conclusion,
several studies showing leukemia, Iymphoma and cancer of the nervous system in children
exposed to supported by similar findings in adults in several/ occupational studies also involving
electrical power frequency exposures, show a consistent pattern of response that suggest a causal
link. "
When questioned about the contradictory nature of these statements, the EPA responded that it
was "not appropriate" to use the probable carcinogen label until it could demonstrate how EMFs
caused cancer and exactly how much EMF is harmful.
This explanation does not satisfy many critics who claim that the EPAs upper management was
influenced by political and economic considerations exerted by utility, computer and military
lobbyists.
How Do I Measure EMFs?
A Gauss is a common unit of measurement of magnetic field strength. A Gauss meter is an
instrument which measures the strength of magnetic fields. Inside a Gauss meter there is a coil of
thin wire, typically with hundreds of turns. As a magnetic field radiates through the coil, it induces a
current, which is amplified by the circuitry inside the Gauss meter.
Gauss meters may vary in the strength of the magnetic field they are capable of measuring. A
meter used for measuring EMFs from power lines, transformers, substations and appliances
around the home, for example, should be able to measure as low as .1 mg.
Gauss meters vary widely in price and accuracy. Meters have either a single axis coil or a triple axis
coil. Single axis meters are much simpler than triple axis meters to manufacture and thus, are less
expensive.
To use a single axis meter you must point the meter's one sensor in three directions -- -the x, y and
z axis. Then, you combine the three readings in a mathematical equation to calculate the combined
field strength. Obviously, its far easier and more accurate to use a 3-axis meter. Triple axis Gauss
meters are quite accurate, but they are also more expensive.
Another thing to watch out for when purchasing or renting a Gauss meter is whether or not it is
frequency weighted. Most meters will read the same EMF strength no mater what the frequency.
As the human body appears to be sensitive to both the field strength AND the frequency, Gauss
meters used for biological purposes should be "frequency weighted".
This means that if the field is different than 60 Hz the meter will consider the frequency and use it in
calculating and displaying the EMF's strength. This feature is why frequency weighted meters will
show a higher EMF reading than those meters typically used by electricians and engineers.
Power Lines
An enormous amount of electricity is created at power generating stations and sent across the
country through wires that carry high voltages. All power lines radiate electromagnetic fields. The
question is: how much are the
power lines near YOUR home radiating? The amount of EMFs coming from a power line depends
on its particular configuration. Power companies know which power line configurations are best for
reducing EMFs but most don't feel the evidence supports costly changes in the way they deliver
electricity.
Substations
A substation is an assemblage of circuit breakers, disconnecting switches and transformers
designed to substations have been blamed for causing cancer clusters among nearby residents.
Paul Brodeur wrote about several such cancer clusters in the July 9, 1990 issue of the New Yorker
Magazine.
Transformers
A key component of a utility's electrical distribution network depends upon numerous, small
transformers mounted on power poles. A transformer looks like a small metal trash can, usually
cylindrical.
Even when the electrical service is underground, you will often see a metal box (usually square}
located on the ground near the street. Many people don't realize that when they see a transformer,
the power line feeding the transformer is 4000 to 13,800 volts.
The transformer then reduces the voltage to the 120/240 volts needed by nearby homes. Since
these transformers can be seen in almost every neighborhood, they are a source of concern.
EMFs near a transformer can be quite high, but due to its small structure, the field strength
diminishes rapidly with distance, as it does from any point source. For this reason, having a
transformer located near your home is usually not a major source of concern, although just to
make sure, everyone should measure the field strength around it.
Home Wiring
If your home has high EMF readings, it is important to determine the sources of the EMF so that
remedial action can be taken, if possible. Many times a particular room will have a higher EMF
reading. Check to see if the electricity is coming into the house on the wall outside that room. When
this is the case, it is usually a good idea to block off that room and only use it for storage purposes.
Sometimes, the source of a high magnetic field is incorrect wiring. If you suspect that your home is
wired improperly, obtain the services of a licensed electrician. Warning: Do not touch electric wires,
even if you think the current is turned off. If you need to disconnect electrical circuits to determine
the source of magnetic fields, you should call a licensed electrician.
Computers
Computers are a complicated subject. Know this: EMFs radiate from all sides of the computer.
Thus, you must not only be concerned with sitting in front of the monitor but also if you are sitting
near a computer or if a computer is operating in a nearby room.
The Swedish safety standard, effective 711/90, specifies a maximum of 0.25 mG at 50 cm from the
display. Many US manufactured computers have EMFs of 5 - 100 mG at this distance. And know
this too: the screens placed over monitors do NOT block EMFs. Not even a lead screen will block
ELF and VLF magnetic fields. Space does not permit a more thorough discussion of computers. If
you use a computer, it is important that you measure your EMF exposure with a Gauss meter and
review the literature concerning the health impacts of computer use.
Electric Blankets and Waterbeds
Electric blankets create a magnetic field that penetrates about 6-7 inches into the body. Thus it is
not surprising that an epidemiological study has linked electric blankets with miscarriages and
childhood leukemia.
This pioneering work was performed by Dr. Nancy Wertheimer and Ed Leeper, who originally
discovered that magnetic fields were linked to childhood leukemia. Similar health effects have been
noted with users of many electric blankets and waterbed heaters will emit EMFs even when turned
off.
The devices must be unplugged to delete the EMF exposure Additionally, there is the issue
regarding the vibrations that are generated by sleeping on standing water. There is less hard data
in this area but some experts are concerned about the consequences.
Electric Clocks
Electric clocks have a very high magnetic field, as much as 5 to 10 mG up to three feet away. If you
are using a bedside clock, you are probably sleeping in an EMF equivalent to that of a powerline
Studies have linked high rates of brain tumors with chronic exposure to magnetic fields, so it is wise
to place all clocks and other electrical devices (such as telephones and answering devices) at least
6 feet from your bed.
Fluorescent Lights
Fluorescent lights produce much more EMFs than incandescent bulbs. A typical fluorescent lamp
of a office ceiling have readings of 160 to 200 mg 1 inch away.
Microwave Ovens and Radar
Microwave ovens and radar from military installations and airports emit two types of radiation --
microwave and ELF. Microwaves are measured in milliwatt per centimeter squared (mW/cm2) As of
1/1/93, the U.S. safety limit for microwave exposure is 1 mW/cm2, down from a previous 10
mW/cm2. The Russian safety limit is .01 mW/cm2. All microwave ovens leak and exceed the
Russian safety limit. In addition, recent Russian studies have shown that normal microwave cooking
coverts food protein molecules into carcinogenic substances.
When measuring microwaves from military and airport radar sources, 100% accurate readings can
only be found with extremely expensive digital peak-hold meters. Why? Because analog devices
begin to drop their reading immediately after the radar sweep passes. Thus, while an analog meter
can show whether or not you are being exposed to radar EMFs, analog meters can't show your
true exposure. Although thousands of dollars to purchase, digital-hold meters capable of
accurately detecting radar EMFs can be rented for several hundred to over a thousand dollars per
month.
Telephones and Answering Machines
Telephones can emit surprisingly strong EMFs, especially from the handset. This is a problem
because we hold the telephone so close to our head. Place the Gauss meter right against the ear
piece and the mouth piece before buying a phone.
Some brands emit no measurable fields and others emit strong fields that travel several
inches....right into your brain. Answering machines, particular those with adapter plugs
(mini-transformers), give off high levels of EMFs.
Electric Razors and Hair Dryers
Electric razors and hair dryers emit EMFs as high as 200 to 400 mG. This seems alarming, but we
don't know if this is worse (or better) than a chronic exposure to a 2-3 mG field. Some EMF
consultants recommend that hair dryers not be used on children as the high fields are held close to
their rapidly developing brain and nervous system.
Prudent Avoidance
Electricity is an inseparable part of our modern day society. This means that EMFs will continue to
be all around us. But as Discover Magazine postulated, aside from making our life easier, is
electricity also making our lives shorter?
Most experts agree that limited, non-chronic exposure to EMFs is not a threat. For example, it is
probably acceptable for a person to be near a toaster in the morning. BUT, it is not advisable for a
person to sleep under an electric blanket, up close, live near a powerline/substation, and sleep in a
room where the power enters the home. This person is under an extreme case of chronic
exposure. This condition, unfortunately, applies to millions of Americans.
If you wish to follows the EPA's advice and practice "prudent avoidance" then the following advice is
offered:
Measure your home, work and school environments with a Gauss meter Measure EMFs both inside
and outside your home. Don't let your children play near power lines, transformers, radar domes
and microwave towers.
Avoid areas where the field is above 1 mG. Measure the EMFs from appliances both when they are
operating and when they are turned off. Some appliances (like TVs) are still drawing current even
when they are off.
Don't sleep under an electric blanket or on a waterbed. If you insist on using these, unplug them
before going to bed (don't just turn it off). Even though there is no magnetic field when they are
turned off, there may still be a high electric field.
Don't sit too close to your TV set. Distance yourself at least 6 feet away. Use a Gauss meter to help
you decide where it is safe to sit.
Rearrange your office and home area so that you are not exposed to EMFs from the sides/backs of
electric appliances and computers. In the home, it is best that all major electrical appliances, such
as computers, TVs, refrigerators etc, be placed up against outside walls. That way you are not
creating an EMF field in the adjoining room.
Don't sit too close to your computer. Computer monitors vary greatly in the strength of their EMFs,
so you should check yours with a meter. Don't stand close to your microwave oven. Move all
electrical appliances at least 6 feet from your bed. Eliminate wires running under your bed.
Eliminate dimmers and 3-way switches.
Be wary of cordless appliances such as electric toothbrushes and razors. You may choose not to
wear a quartz-analog watch because it radiates pulsating EMFs along your acupuncture meridians.
An older mechanical windup watch would be an acceptable alternative. It is also recommended to
wear as little jewelry as possible and to take it off at night. Many people have metal sensitivity which
can be aggravated by placing it right on the skin. Measure with a gauss meter to be sure.
And last, but not least, always always always remember that EMFs pass right through walls. The
EMF you are reading on your Gauss meter could be radiating from the next room...or from outside
your home.
Additional Radiation Info:
Eyeglass frames should ideally be made from plastic with no wires in them, otherwise they can
serve as an antenna to focus the radio and cellular phone waves directly into your brain.
What EMF Level Is Safe?
There's a heated debate as to what electromagnetic field (EMF) level is considered safe. Since the
experts have not come to an consensus, you'll have to decide for yourself... Many government and
utility documents report the usual ambient level of 60-Hz magnetic field to be 0.5 mG.
Thus, any reading higher than 0.5 mG is above the "usual" ambient exposure. Many experts and
public officials, as well as the few governments that have made an effort to offer public protection,
have adopted the 3 mG cutoff point. The EPA has proposed a safety standard of 1 mG. Sweden
has set a maximum safety limit of 1 mG.
Dr. Robert Becker, an MD who has been studying the effects of EMFs for 20 years, states a lmG
safety limit in his book Cross Currents. When electricians try to solve a magnetic field problem they
do their best to drop the level to 1 mG or below.
Dr. Nancy Wertheimer, a Ph.D. epidemiologist who has been studying EMFs for 20 years, has been
looking at the epidemiological data in a different way -- she is trying to associate EMF levels with
health rather than disease. The level she is coming up with is a cut off of 1 mG. Russian
researchers claim that 1/1000ths of a mG should be the standard.
The BioElectric Body believes that there are several stages of health between "optimum wellness",
"degenerative disease" and "Cancer". Thus, we maintain our own living and sleeping quarters at
0.5mG and below.
Recommended Reading
Cross Currents The Perils of Electropollution. The Promise of Electromedicine Robert 0. Becker,
M.D. Jeremy P. Tarcher, Inc., 1990
Currents of Death The Attempt to Cover Up the Threat to Your Health Paul Brodeur Simon and
Schuster, 1989
Electromagnetic Man Health & Hazard in the Electrical Environment Cyril W. Smith & Simon Best
St. Martin's Press. Inc. 1989
Can electromagnetic fields (EMF) from power lines, home wiring, airport and military radar,
substations, transformers, computers and appliances cause brain tumors, leukemia, birth defects,
miscarriages, chronic fatigue, headaches, cataracts, heart problems, stress. nausea, chest pain,
forgetfulness, cancer and other health problems?
Numerous studies have produced contradictory results, yet some experts are convinced that the
threat is real. Dr. David Carpenter, Dean at the School of Public Health, State University of New
York believes it is likely that up to 30% of all childhood cancers come from exposure to EMFs.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns "There is reason for concern" and advises
prudent avoidance". Martin Halper, the EPA's Director of Analysis and Support says "I have never
seen a set of epidemiological studies that remotely approached the weight of evidence that we're
seeing with EMFs. Clearly there is something here."
Concern over EMFs exploded after Paul Brodeur wrote a series of articles in the New Yorker
Magazine in June 1989. Because of Paul Brodeur's reputation. His articles had a catalytic effect on
scientists, reporters and concerned people throughout the world.
In November 1989, the Department of Energy reported that "It has now become generally accepted
that there are, indeed, biological effects due to field exposure."
The EMF issue gained more publicity in 1990 when alarming reports appeared in Time, the Wall
Street Journal, Business Week and popular computer publications. ABC's Ted Koppel and CBS's
Dan Rather both aired special segments on EMFs.
In addition to the long-term health concerns, buying a house with high fields will be an economic
disaster. In a few years, when power line radiation is as well known as asbestos and radon, a
house with high fields will be practically impossible to sell. Already there are hundreds of lawsuits
regarding EMFs and property devaluation.
EPA Says the Threat Is Real
By 1990, over one hundred studies had been conducted worldwide. Of these, at least two dozen
epidemiological studies on humans indicated a link between EMFs and serious health problems. In
response to public pressure, the Environmental Protection Agency IEPA) began reviewing and
evaluating the available literature.
In a draft report issued in March 1990, the EPA recommended that EMFs be classified as a Class B
carcinogen -- -a "probable human carcinogen and joined the ranks of formaldehyde, DDT, dioxins
and PCBs.
After the EPA draft report was released, utility, military and computer lobbyists came down hard on
the EPA. The EPA's final revision did NOT classify EMFs as a Class B carcinogen Rather, the
following explanation was added:"
At this time such a characterization regarding the link between cancer and exposure to EMFs is not
appropriate because the basic nature of the interaction between EMFs and biological processes
leading to cancer is not understood."
Curiously, this rather unusual logic appears on the same page as the following: "In conclusion,
several studies showing leukemia, Iymphoma and cancer of the nervous system in children
exposed to supported by similar findings in adults in several/ occupational studies also involving
electrical power frequency exposures, show a consistent pattern of response that suggest a causal
link. "
When questioned about the contradictory nature of these statements, the EPA responded that it
was "not appropriate" to use the probable carcinogen label until it could demonstrate how EMFs
caused cancer and exactly how much EMF is harmful.
This explanation does not satisfy many critics who claim that the EPAs upper management was
influenced by political and economic considerations exerted by utility, computer and military
lobbyists.
How Do I Measure EMFs?
A Gauss is a common unit of measurement of magnetic field strength. A Gauss meter is an
instrument which measures the strength of magnetic fields. Inside a Gauss meter there is a coil of
thin wire, typically with hundreds of turns. As a magnetic field radiates through the coil, it induces a
current, which is amplified by the circuitry inside the Gauss meter.
Gauss meters may vary in the strength of the magnetic field they are capable of measuring. A
meter used for measuring EMFs from power lines, transformers, substations and appliances
around the home, for example, should be able to measure as low as .1 mg.
Gauss meters vary widely in price and accuracy. Meters have either a single axis coil or a triple axis
coil. Single axis meters are much simpler than triple axis meters to manufacture and thus, are less
expensive.
To use a single axis meter you must point the meter's one sensor in three directions -- -the x, y and
z axis. Then, you combine the three readings in a mathematical equation to calculate the combined
field strength. Obviously, its far easier and more accurate to use a 3-axis meter. Triple axis Gauss
meters are quite accurate, but they are also more expensive.
Another thing to watch out for when purchasing or renting a Gauss meter is whether or not it is
frequency weighted. Most meters will read the same EMF strength no mater what the frequency.
As the human body appears to be sensitive to both the field strength AND the frequency, Gauss
meters used for biological purposes should be "frequency weighted".
This means that if the field is different than 60 Hz the meter will consider the frequency and use it in
calculating and displaying the EMF's strength. This feature is why frequency weighted meters will
show a higher EMF reading than those meters typically used by electricians and engineers.
Power Lines
An enormous amount of electricity is created at power generating stations and sent across the
country through wires that carry high voltages. All power lines radiate electromagnetic fields. The
question is: how much are the
power lines near YOUR home radiating? The amount of EMFs coming from a power line depends
on its particular configuration. Power companies know which power line configurations are best for
reducing EMFs but most don't feel the evidence supports costly changes in the way they deliver
electricity.
Substations
A substation is an assemblage of circuit breakers, disconnecting switches and transformers
designed to substations have been blamed for causing cancer clusters among nearby residents.
Paul Brodeur wrote about several such cancer clusters in the July 9, 1990 issue of the New Yorker
Magazine.
Transformers
A key component of a utility's electrical distribution network depends upon numerous, small
transformers mounted on power poles. A transformer looks like a small metal trash can, usually
cylindrical.
Even when the electrical service is underground, you will often see a metal box (usually square}
located on the ground near the street. Many people don't realize that when they see a transformer,
the power line feeding the transformer is 4000 to 13,800 volts.
The transformer then reduces the voltage to the 120/240 volts needed by nearby homes. Since
these transformers can be seen in almost every neighborhood, they are a source of concern.
EMFs near a transformer can be quite high, but due to its small structure, the field strength
diminishes rapidly with distance, as it does from any point source. For this reason, having a
transformer located near your home is usually not a major source of concern, although just to
make sure, everyone should measure the field strength around it.
Home Wiring
If your home has high EMF readings, it is important to determine the sources of the EMF so that
remedial action can be taken, if possible. Many times a particular room will have a higher EMF
reading. Check to see if the electricity is coming into the house on the wall outside that room. When
this is the case, it is usually a good idea to block off that room and only use it for storage purposes.
Sometimes, the source of a high magnetic field is incorrect wiring. If you suspect that your home is
wired improperly, obtain the services of a licensed electrician. Warning: Do not touch electric wires,
even if you think the current is turned off. If you need to disconnect electrical circuits to determine
the source of magnetic fields, you should call a licensed electrician.
Computers
Computers are a complicated subject. Know this: EMFs radiate from all sides of the computer.
Thus, you must not only be concerned with sitting in front of the monitor but also if you are sitting
near a computer or if a computer is operating in a nearby room.
The Swedish safety standard, effective 711/90, specifies a maximum of 0.25 mG at 50 cm from the
display. Many US manufactured computers have EMFs of 5 - 100 mG at this distance. And know
this too: the screens placed over monitors do NOT block EMFs. Not even a lead screen will block
ELF and VLF magnetic fields. Space does not permit a more thorough discussion of computers. If
you use a computer, it is important that you measure your EMF exposure with a Gauss meter and
review the literature concerning the health impacts of computer use.
Electric Blankets and Waterbeds
Electric blankets create a magnetic field that penetrates about 6-7 inches into the body. Thus it is
not surprising that an epidemiological study has linked electric blankets with miscarriages and
childhood leukemia.
This pioneering work was performed by Dr. Nancy Wertheimer and Ed Leeper, who originally
discovered that magnetic fields were linked to childhood leukemia. Similar health effects have been
noted with users of many electric blankets and waterbed heaters will emit EMFs even when turned
off.
The devices must be unplugged to delete the EMF exposure Additionally, there is the issue
regarding the vibrations that are generated by sleeping on standing water. There is less hard data
in this area but some experts are concerned about the consequences.
Electric Clocks
Electric clocks have a very high magnetic field, as much as 5 to 10 mG up to three feet away. If you
are using a bedside clock, you are probably sleeping in an EMF equivalent to that of a powerline
Studies have linked high rates of brain tumors with chronic exposure to magnetic fields, so it is wise
to place all clocks and other electrical devices (such as telephones and answering devices) at least
6 feet from your bed.
Fluorescent Lights
Fluorescent lights produce much more EMFs than incandescent bulbs. A typical fluorescent lamp
of a office ceiling have readings of 160 to 200 mg 1 inch away.
Microwave Ovens and Radar
Microwave ovens and radar from military installations and airports emit two types of radiation --
microwave and ELF. Microwaves are measured in milliwatt per centimeter squared (mW/cm2) As of
1/1/93, the U.S. safety limit for microwave exposure is 1 mW/cm2, down from a previous 10
mW/cm2. The Russian safety limit is .01 mW/cm2. All microwave ovens leak and exceed the
Russian safety limit. In addition, recent Russian studies have shown that normal microwave cooking
coverts food protein molecules into carcinogenic substances.
When measuring microwaves from military and airport radar sources, 100% accurate readings can
only be found with extremely expensive digital peak-hold meters. Why? Because analog devices
begin to drop their reading immediately after the radar sweep passes. Thus, while an analog meter
can show whether or not you are being exposed to radar EMFs, analog meters can't show your
true exposure. Although thousands of dollars to purchase, digital-hold meters capable of
accurately detecting radar EMFs can be rented for several hundred to over a thousand dollars per
month.
Telephones and Answering Machines
Telephones can emit surprisingly strong EMFs, especially from the handset. This is a problem
because we hold the telephone so close to our head. Place the Gauss meter right against the ear
piece and the mouth piece before buying a phone.
Some brands emit no measurable fields and others emit strong fields that travel several
inches....right into your brain. Answering machines, particular those with adapter plugs
(mini-transformers), give off high levels of EMFs.
Electric Razors and Hair Dryers
Electric razors and hair dryers emit EMFs as high as 200 to 400 mG. This seems alarming, but we
don't know if this is worse (or better) than a chronic exposure to a 2-3 mG field. Some EMF
consultants recommend that hair dryers not be used on children as the high fields are held close to
their rapidly developing brain and nervous system.
Prudent Avoidance
Electricity is an inseparable part of our modern day society. This means that EMFs will continue to
be all around us. But as Discover Magazine postulated, aside from making our life easier, is
electricity also making our lives shorter?
Most experts agree that limited, non-chronic exposure to EMFs is not a threat. For example, it is
probably acceptable for a person to be near a toaster in the morning. BUT, it is not advisable for a
person to sleep under an electric blanket, up close, live near a powerline/substation, and sleep in a
room where the power enters the home. This person is under an extreme case of chronic
exposure. This condition, unfortunately, applies to millions of Americans.
If you wish to follows the EPA's advice and practice "prudent avoidance" then the following advice is
offered:
Measure your home, work and school environments with a Gauss meter Measure EMFs both inside
and outside your home. Don't let your children play near power lines, transformers, radar domes
and microwave towers.
Avoid areas where the field is above 1 mG. Measure the EMFs from appliances both when they are
operating and when they are turned off. Some appliances (like TVs) are still drawing current even
when they are off.
Don't sleep under an electric blanket or on a waterbed. If you insist on using these, unplug them
before going to bed (don't just turn it off). Even though there is no magnetic field when they are
turned off, there may still be a high electric field.
Don't sit too close to your TV set. Distance yourself at least 6 feet away. Use a Gauss meter to help
you decide where it is safe to sit.
Rearrange your office and home area so that you are not exposed to EMFs from the sides/backs of
electric appliances and computers. In the home, it is best that all major electrical appliances, such
as computers, TVs, refrigerators etc, be placed up against outside walls. That way you are not
creating an EMF field in the adjoining room.
Don't sit too close to your computer. Computer monitors vary greatly in the strength of their EMFs,
so you should check yours with a meter. Don't stand close to your microwave oven. Move all
electrical appliances at least 6 feet from your bed. Eliminate wires running under your bed.
Eliminate dimmers and 3-way switches.
Be wary of cordless appliances such as electric toothbrushes and razors. You may choose not to
wear a quartz-analog watch because it radiates pulsating EMFs along your acupuncture meridians.
An older mechanical windup watch would be an acceptable alternative. It is also recommended to
wear as little jewelry as possible and to take it off at night. Many people have metal sensitivity which
can be aggravated by placing it right on the skin. Measure with a gauss meter to be sure.
And last, but not least, always always always remember that EMFs pass right through walls. The
EMF you are reading on your Gauss meter could be radiating from the next room...or from outside
your home.
Additional Radiation Info:
Eyeglass frames should ideally be made from plastic with no wires in them, otherwise they can
serve as an antenna to focus the radio and cellular phone waves directly into your brain.
What EMF Level Is Safe?
There's a heated debate as to what electromagnetic field (EMF) level is considered safe. Since the
experts have not come to an consensus, you'll have to decide for yourself... Many government and
utility documents report the usual ambient level of 60-Hz magnetic field to be 0.5 mG.
Thus, any reading higher than 0.5 mG is above the "usual" ambient exposure. Many experts and
public officials, as well as the few governments that have made an effort to offer public protection,
have adopted the 3 mG cutoff point. The EPA has proposed a safety standard of 1 mG. Sweden
has set a maximum safety limit of 1 mG.
Dr. Robert Becker, an MD who has been studying the effects of EMFs for 20 years, states a lmG
safety limit in his book Cross Currents. When electricians try to solve a magnetic field problem they
do their best to drop the level to 1 mG or below.
Dr. Nancy Wertheimer, a Ph.D. epidemiologist who has been studying EMFs for 20 years, has been
looking at the epidemiological data in a different way -- she is trying to associate EMF levels with
health rather than disease. The level she is coming up with is a cut off of 1 mG. Russian
researchers claim that 1/1000ths of a mG should be the standard.
The BioElectric Body believes that there are several stages of health between "optimum wellness",
"degenerative disease" and "Cancer". Thus, we maintain our own living and sleeping quarters at
0.5mG and below.
Recommended Reading
Cross Currents The Perils of Electropollution. The Promise of Electromedicine Robert 0. Becker,
M.D. Jeremy P. Tarcher, Inc., 1990
Currents of Death The Attempt to Cover Up the Threat to Your Health Paul Brodeur Simon and
Schuster, 1989
Electromagnetic Man Health & Hazard in the Electrical Environment Cyril W. Smith & Simon Best
St. Martin's Press. Inc. 1989