What are CEMFAW 2016 regulations?

CEMFAW 2016 regulations are the main piece of legislation governing the exposure of workers to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) in the UK. The regulations implement the European Union’s Directive 2013/35/EU on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (electromagnetic fields).

Do CEMFAW 2016 regulations apply to my business?

CEMFAW 2016 regulations apply to all work activities where workers are exposed to EMFs, including:

1. Work involving the use of electrical equipment, such as power lines, transformers, and welding machines

2. Work involving the use of electronic devices, such as mobile phones, computers, and radar equipment

3. Work in areas where there is high exposure to EMFs, such as near radio and television transmitters

What are the main requirements of CEMFAW 2016 regulations?

CEMFAW 2016 regulations require employers to:

1. Assess the levels of EMFs to which their employees are exposed

2. Take steps to reduce exposure below the exposure limit values (ELVs)

3. Provide information and training on the risks of EMF exposure

4. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE), such as ear defenders and safety glasses, if necessary

5. Implement engineering controls to reduce EMF exposure, such as shielding and distance controls, if necessary

What are the exposure limit values (ELVs)?

The ELVs are set out in Schedule 2 of the regulations and are based on the best available scientific evidence on the health effects of EMFs.

 What are the special precautions for employees at particular risk?

 Employers must take special precautions for employees at particular risk, such as pregnant women and workers with implanted medical devices.

 Why is an EMF survey important?

An EMF survey is an essential part of complying with CEMFAW 2016 regulations. The survey will identify all sources of EMFs in the workplace and measure the levels of exposure to which employees are exposed. The results of the survey will be used to assess the risks to employees and to develop a plan to reduce exposure below the ELVs.

 What are the steps I should take to comply with CEMFAW 2016 regulations?

 Identify all sources of EMFs in the workplace.

1. Carry out an EMF survey to measure the levels of exposure to which employees are exposed. The survey should be carried out by a qualified and experienced professional.

2. Assess the risks to employees based on the results of the EMF survey.

3. Develop a plan to reduce exposure below the ELVs. This may involve engineering controls, PPE, and/or training and information.

4. Implement the plan and monitor the effectiveness of the control measures.

5. Review the risk assessment and control measures on a regular basis.

 Additional tips for employers

Involve employees in the process of complying with CEMFAW 2016. Employees can help to identify sources of EMFs and to develop control measures.

1. Provide employees with information and training on the risks of EMF exposure and on the control measures that are in place.

2. Keep records of the EMF survey, risk assessment, and control measures. This information will be needed to demonstrate compliance with CEMFAW 2016 in the event of an inspection by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Important things to remember

 CEMFAW 2016 regulations apply to all work activities where workers are exposed to EMFs.

1. Employers have a legal obligation to comply with the regulations.

2.An EMF survey is an essential part of complying with CEMFAW 2016.

3. Employers must take special precautions for employees at particular risk, such as pregnant women and workers with implanted medical devices.