What is EMF




Electromagnetic radiation (EMR) occurs naturally on this planet, but it is the man-made EMR that we should be aware of. Technological advances have significantly altered our electromagnetic environment. The Electromagnetic Spectrum or Frequency Spectrum ranges from the natural earth magnetic field to ionizing radiation. The spectrum includes electric power transmission to operate motors and appliances, wireless systems for radio and TV transmission, cellular and wireless networks and infrared, visible and ultraviolet light. We generally differentiate EMR into these basic categories:

  • Alternating Currents (AC)
  • Direct Currents (DC)
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Electric Fields
  • Low Frequencies Fields
  • High Frequencies Fields
  • Non-ionizing Radiation
  • Ionizing Radiation

The electromagnetic spectrum or frequency spectrum is determined by their corresponding frequency and wavelength. The frequency is expressed in how many times the wave cycles per second and is referred to as Hertz (Hz). Alternating currents (AC) change their polarity cyclically and the polarity changes are also expressed in Hertz.
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The lowest frequencies (longest wave length) are referred to as Extremely Low Frequency or ELF. Higher frequencies (shorter wave length) are referred to as Radio Frequency (RF) or Microwaves. The highest frequencies (extremely short waves) are called ionizing radiation.


EMF
​The term EMF (electromagnetic fields) is used for low frequency, alternating (AC) or direct current (DC), magnetic or electric fields.  Low frequency systems are used to transmit electrical power into our buildings.

Alternating Currents (AC)
  • AC Magnetic Fields
    • Magnetic fields are created by electrical current flowing in conductors. They are associated with electrical transmission, building wiring system, transformers, motors, appliances, and power supply. The electrical power system the US runs utilizes the 60 HZ frequency, 50 Hz is used in European countries.
    • High magnetic fields can pose significant EMF health risks. Elevated magnetic fields are often caused by flaws in a buildings internal wiring system, by power lines, stray current traveling on water and gas lines, and improper grounding systems. Magnetic fields are typically measured in milliGauss (mG).
  • AC Electric Fields
    • Electric fields are created by the voltage present in the electrical system, either the building wiring or power cords. A current flow is not necessary to create an electric field. Which means a device does not have to be on to create an electric field. They can usually easily be eliminated or shielded.  Electric fields are measured in Volt per meter (V/m)


Direct Currents (DC)

Direct current power transmission systems have a constant flow of electric charge that does not change its polarity and therefore has a zero (0) Hz frequency. DC systems are used in batteries and low voltage lighting systems.
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  • DC Magnetic Fields
    • DC magnetic fields occur naturally on this planet, the earth’s magnetic field. These static DC magnetic fields are present in regular magnets. Concerns develop when steel components in buildings become magnetized leading to the creation of magnetic fields in structures.
  • DC Electric Fields
    • DC electric fields, also referred to as Electrostatic Charge, can be created when two poorly conducting materials rub against each other. For example, a shoe sole rubbing over the synthetic carpet can create an electrostatic charge which can discharge with an electric shock. Electromagnetic charge is measured in Volts per meter (V/m) and discharge time.​


RF and Microwave Radiation

These higher frequencies are used for AM and FM satellite radio, television, microwave ovens, radar, cell towers, cell phones, cordless phones, Bluetooth, wireless computer and data transmission (WLAN, WI-FI, WiMAX) networks. The use of wireless technologies has exponentially increased over the last decade and has become a significant source of microwave radiation in buildings. Placement of wireless network installations in homes or offices can become a significant source of microwave radiation for occupants in the buildings.


​Ionizing  & Non Ionizing Radiation

The dividing line between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation occurs in the ultraviolet part of the electromagnetic spectrum [shown in the illustration of the electromagnetic spectrum above]. Radiation in the ultraviolet band and at lower energies (to the left of ultraviolet) is called non-ionizing radiation, while at the higher energies to the right of the ultraviolet band is called ionizing radiation.

Non-ionizing radiation differs from ionizing radiation in the way it acts on materials like air, water, and living tissue.  Unlike x-rays and other forms of ionizing radiation, non-ionizing radiation does not have enough energy to remove electrons from atoms and molecules.



Non-Ionizing Radiation

In these lower frequencies on the left side of the electromagnetic spectrum, we find infrared, microwave, radiowaves, and cell phone range radiation.  Numerous recent scientific publications have shown that non-ionizing radiation affects living organisms at levels well below most international and national guidelines.

​Effects include increased cancer risk, cellular stress, increase in harmful free radicals, genetic damages, structural and functional changes of the reproductive system, learning and memory deficits, neurological disorders, breaks to the blood brain barrier, and negative impacts on general well-being in humans. Damage goes well beyond the human race, as there is growing evidence of harmful effects to both plant and animal life.

Ionizing Radiation

The damaging effect of ionizing radiation in the form of X-ray, beta and gamma radiation, even in low doses, has a significant impact on human health. This has been well documented and led to threshold levels being reduced over time. Ionization radiation, if enough occurs, can be destructive to biological organisms, can cause DNA damage in individual cells and is responsible for numerous cancers.