Electric and magnetic fields and associated radiation waves can adversely affect molecular bonds in the body at certain levels. Medical researchers and scientists have learned through extensive study that exposures to high levels for a prolonged period cause physical damage. Short-term exposure to low levels seems to not affect these bonds.
An EMF assessment and a substation assessment help home and business owners and renters determine their level of exposure. EMF and substation risk assessments are important because experts around the world are currently still studying and debating the effects of prolonged exposure to low levels from multiple man-made sources related to humanity’s increasing dependence on technologies that emit electromagnetic fields.
Where Do These Fields Come From?
Electric and magnetic fields and radiation come from a variety of sources. The sun naturally emits high levels. Certain types of medical equipment used to produce scans also emit high levels. Most other sources are considered low-level man-made or artificial ones, such as commonly used appliances and equipment like cellphones, computers, monitors, microwave ovens, TVs and wireless routers. Outdoor low-level emitters are commonly associated with electrical power distribution and include energy meters, power lines and substations.
Potential Health Concerns
High levels of electromagnetic radiation cause cellular damage. Some cancers, especially leukemia, have been linked to to this radiation. Nervous system damage and neurological problems are also possible. Repeat and extended exposures to electromagnetic radiation or possibly high battery-related heat might cause the formation of gliomas, aggressive tumors that form in the brain and spinal cord, in some cellphone users.
Chronic illnesses have become a more pressing potential concern in recent years. Some people believe that they’ve suffered rashes, migraines, fatigue, nausea, reduced sexual drive, memory loss and mood changes. These symptoms might be linked to dysfunction in immune, endocrine and other physical systems potentially damaged by prolonged exposure to low levels of radiation.
Important Factors to Consider
Studies have revealed that the amount of total exposure and physical distance from sources of electric and magnetic fields are factors that affect the impact of those sources on the human body. As a result, people should reduce the number of exposures and increase the distance between them and these sources as much as possible. One example: No one should ever stand against or next to a microwave oven when it’s powered on and heating food. Computer and cellphone users should keep screens a foot or more away from their faces at all times.
Light and Noise
Radiation isn’t the only potential cause of illness from sources of electric and magnetic fields. Blue light associated with modern screens can interfere with circadian rhythms and sleep by disrupting hormones. This light can also penetrate into the eye too deeply and cause macular degeneration and cataracts. Long, uninterrupted viewing of content on small screens has been linked to eye strain. Electrical power sources often also emit a hum and other noises that affect some people in adverse ways. For example, a person standing far away from a microwave oven might still experience hearing problems or sound sensitivity related to the noise it generates. The same might occur with close proximity to power lines.
Since electromagnetic fields even at low frequencies can heat up body tissues too much, one possible reason for related health problems is thermal damage. Cellular phone studies are ongoing to better understand this potential source of harm. Electric and magnetic fields might also affect cells in a way that causes immune system sensitivity that results in heightened allergy and inflammatory responses. Lastly, high stress has been linked to immune system dysfunction, which means that anxiety and stress alone because of fear about new technologies can adversely affect the body.
Homeowners and renters need to be aware of these factors since an Electromagnetic Field EMF Exposure Assessment or a Substation EMF Assessment might reveal that nearby electric and magnetic fields are at extremely low levels. They then need to consider low, medium and high levels of light, noise and individual sensitivity as possible factors.
Is It Safe to Live Near Substations?
Substations help control and manage the distribution of electricity. They’re connected to power stations at long distances via electrical lines. The detectable range of their generated electromagnetic fields can extend between three and 15 meters. This range typically depends on the amount of power used at any given time: High peak usage generates fields that extend greater distances. Beyond harmful radiation, these substations can also potentially expose people who live near them to toxic substances from materials used for their proper working and upkeep. Only substation assessments or surveys can accurately determine if it’s safe to live near one or more particular substations.
Since the true, long-term health effects from low-level electric and magnetic fields located inside and outside of a structure aren’t known, it’s wise for people to invest in electromagnetic risk assessments to determine the amount of their exposure. Our experienced team at EMF Inspections Ltd. wants to make certain that every property owner and renter can have the peace of mind of knowing that they’re living and working in healthy, safe environments. We can perform an Electromagnetic Field Assessment in a timely fashion. Our EMF survey can help you to reduce EMF levels and narrow down other potential sources of harm.
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