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This paper discusses a recommended procedure for performing electromagnetic field (EMF) or electro-magnetic radiation EMR measurements either by engaging a professional or by consumers using low-cost instruments which measure EMF exposure levels in gauss or milligauss. We discusses sources of error and variation in EMF measurements and we review and make suggestions for using several low-cost EMF measurement devices to determine the instantaneous electromagnetic field exposure.

Because RF and EMF measurement tools need to be properly chosen to measure the particular type and frequency of RF or EMF signal that is of interest, be sure to also see EMF RF FIELD & FREQUENCY DEFINITIONS for a simple explanation of different types of radio frequency (RF) and electromagnetic frequency (EMF) types and where they are found. Also see Definitions of Gauss vs Milligauss for details about gauss and milligauss and definitions of these terms.

See ENVIRO-SCARE, EMF & Property Values if you don't know what EMF, ELF, or electromagnetic fields are or if you want a summary of the possible health effects of EMF exposure and the more likely effect on the property value of homes located very close to power transmission lines. Readers who intend to make their own EMF measurements should be sure to also see WORKSHEET for EMF MEASUREMENTS and also WORKSHEET for EMF MEASUREMENTS - Example.

Also see Electric Power Lines, Electromagnetic Fields, Cancer Risk, & "Enviro-Scare" - The Normal Curve Cycle of Public Fear of Environmental Issues which discusses the impact of EMF and other environmental concerns on property values. And see EMF ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS & HUMAN EXPOSURE which discusses EMF exposure in the workplace.

© Copyright 2010 Daniel Friedman, All Rights Reserved. Information Accuracy & Bias Pledge is at below-left. Use links at the left of each page to navigate this document or to view other topics at this website. Green links show where you are in our document or website.

The information provided here is for research and study purposes. The author makes no representation of unique expertise on this topic, other than having field experience in EMF measurement, having studied technical literature and having conversed with other experts and authors in the field for a number of years.

Steps in A Recommended Electromagnetic Field Measurement Procedure - How to make Outdoor & Indoor EMF Measurements

we have documented a proposed procedure for making site surveys of electromagnetic field strength in order to improve the accuracy and repeatability of such measurements. We welcome critique and suggestions for this procedure. Contact Us with criticism.

As we explained earlier:

Instead of contacting us with a request to perform EMF Electromagnetic or RF Radio Frequency Field Strength measurements, in most cases it is more economical and convenient for a property owner to purchase their own instrument, making measurements under varying conditions. In this series of articles we describe how to make measurements using a consistent approach and using good documentation. See Recommended EMF Measurement Procedure for details of how to collect EMF measurement data.

Following good procedure and using instruments properly are two steps towards making accurate, repeatable EMF measurements. But because the signal transmission for RF sources such as radio, TV, or cell towers, the load on a power transmission line is not under control of an individual property owner, and because the EMF strength varies as the power transmission line load varies, it is important to have an idea of that condition as well when attempting to characterize EMF exposure at a specific location. In contrast, EMF measurements are quite accurate and repeatable at other EMF sources such as close to electrical appliances and service entry cables.

Please do not contact us with a request buy EMF or RF measuring equipment. We do not sell anything. To do so would be a conflict of interest for this website. These devices are readily available from many electrical equipment and home inspection equipment suppliers. See Evaluation of Low-Cost EMF Instruments where we describe several low-cost and reasonably accurate EMF measurement devices that are readily available. See Radio Frequency RF Detection Meters where we describe several low-cost and accurate radio frequency or RF detection and measurement devices suitable for radio, TV, cellphone, microwave, and similar signals.

Outside Measurements of Electromagnetic Field Strength at a Property

Document these Outdoor EMF measurement Parameters and Readings

1. Estimated or measured distance from nearest point on building to point directly below nearby power line
2. Same, for distance from corners of building to the point named above.
3. The date and time of the EMF measurement, for comparison with power transmission line load level data for that same time.
4. The EMF levels found at each location

Indoor Measurements of Electromagnetic Fields

If the outside of the building is in a strong EMF, all measurements inside the building might be expected to produce the identical number.

However if the inspector agrees to a detailed site survey we recommend spot checks in every room as well as at obvious common interior targets of interest (such as an electrical device which is normally kept "on" and which is close to the head of a bed (clocks).

You will observe that while there may be a strong field close to a clock, the field will fall off to undetectable in 2 feet or so.

Other indoor targets of opportunity in residential properties

Commercial properties have special targets of opportunity for EMF Measurements:

Local power distribution systems, electric meter buses which may produce a field which is further distributed by building plumbing or wiring

Special high-amp equipment such as X-ray machines, computer equipment, compressors

EMF Measurement Documentation Requirements

Document date, time, location, weather conditions (hot means air conditioners are running and load may be higher; time means it is at least theoretically possible to correlate the measurement results with actual load data if the power company would provide it)

Document distance from measurement location to suspected source of EMF and identify that source

Document any reports of medical anomalies (if anyone volunteers such information or if your procedure or study permits its collection)

See WORKPLACE EXPOSURE to Electromagnetic Fields for information about exposure to electromagnetic fields in the workplace.

Please see WORKSHEET for EMF MEASUREMENTS - Example for a sample worksheet that collects EMF measurements and summarizes the results.

Readers are urged to consult expert sources and to give any suggestions regarding these notes to the author. Readers may want to see our EXCEL Spreadsheet EMS_Survey_Sample1.xls for an example of common locations and measurement points. This spread sheet includes computations necessary to produce mathematically valid measurement results for those who are using position-sensitive instruments.

Some studies by some experts have suggested a possible link between exposure to electromagnetic fields and various cancers or other health problems. Other studies suggest that no definite correlation could be demonstrated. It is likely that the jury will be out on this matter for some time, for both economic and political reasons.

Small absolute health risk from EMF: Most researchers indicate that where a risk is present, the absolute risk level from EMF is likely to be small, and less than other less obscure hazards. (Automobile accidents, trip and fall, fire, and shock hazards, smoking and other health risks.) Consumers should not let focus on a specific emotionally-charged hazard distract them from these other more mundane but more dangerous concerns.

Instead of contacting us with a request to perform EMF Electromagnetic or RF Radio Frequency Field Strength measurements, in most cases it is more economical and convenient for a property owner to purchase their own instrument, making measurements under varying conditions. See Recommended EMF Measurement Procedure for details of how to collect EMF measurement data. See Evaluation of Low-Cost EMF Instruments where we describe several low-cost and reasonably accurate EMF measurement devices that are readily available. See Radio Frequency RF Detection Meters where we describe several low-cost and accurate radio frequency or RF detection and measurement devices suitable for radio, TV, cellphone, microwave, and similar signals.

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Use links just below or at the left of each page to navigate this document or to view other topics at this website. Green links show where you are in our document or website.

ENVIRO-SCARE, EMF & Property Values
ENVIRO-SCARE Defined, Effects
ENVIRO-SCARE Effects on Property Values
EMF Cancer Scare
EMF RF FIELD & FREQUENCY DEFINITIONS
EMF ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS & HUMAN EXPOSURE
EMF Levels of Cancer Risk
EMF MEASUREMENT INSTRUMENTS
EMF MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES
EMF SURVEY PROCEDURE - Details
  Introduction to EMF Measurement
  EMF/EMR Measurement Procedure Overview
    EMF Variability
    Electrical Utility Workers & EMF Exposure
    EMF Instrument Sensitivity & Accuracy
    EMF Polarity & Shape Affect Measurements
    Distance from the EMF Source Affects Strength
    Time of day & Season Affect EMF Strength
  Local EMF Sources May Exceed Power Line Strength
  Recommended EMF Measurement Procedure
    Outside EMF Measurements
    Outside EMF Measurement Documentation
    Indoor EMF Measurements
    Other Indoor EMF Measurement Targets
    Workplace EMF Measurements
  EMF Measurement Documentation Details
  EMF Measurement Instrument Use
    Definitions of Gauss vs Milligauss
    Position-sensitive EMF Instrument Readings
  Interpreting Electromagnetic Field Strength EMF Survey
  Evaluation of Low-Cost EMF Instruments
    Accuracy & Calibration of EMF Instruments
    Calibration of EMF Instruments in the Field
    Calibration of EMF Instruments by Electric Company
  Electromagnetic Field EMF ELF Detection Instruments
    F.W. Bell Model 4060 ELF Meter
    Safeco™ analog EMF ELF EMR meter
    Walker Scientific ELF-50D™ Digital EMF Meter
  Radio Frequency RF Detection Meters
    BK RF Measurement Test Equipment
    Mobile Design Shipboard RF Measurements
    Safe Living RF Meters - Radio Frequency Detectors
    Zap Checker Radio Frequency Detection Hand Held Instruments
References for Electromagnetic Fields and Cancer
WORKSHEET for EMF MEASUREMENTS
WORKSHEET for EMF MEASUREMENTS - Example
WORKPLACE EXPOSURE to Electromagnetic Fields

References for Electromagnetic Fields and Cancer Risk/Carcinogenicity

• Electric Power Lines, Electromagnetic Fields, Cancer Risk, & "Enviro-Scare" - The Normal Curve Cycle of Public Fear About Environmental Issues - online document by DF
• A Procedure for Measuring EMF electromagnetic fields online document by DF
• "Questions and Answers about Biological Effects and Potential Hazards of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields", Federal Communications Commission, Office of Engineering and Technology, US FCC, OET Bulleting 56, 4th Edition, August 1999
  " Many consumer and industrial products and applications make use of some form of electromagnetic energy. One type of electromagnetic energy that is of increasing importance worldwide is radiofrequency (or "RF") energy, including radio waves and microwaves, which is used for providing telecommunications, broadcast and other services. In the United States the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorizes or licenses most RF telecommunications services, facilities, and devices used by the public, industry and state and local governmental organizations. Because of its regulatory responsibilities in this area the FCC often receives inquiries concerning whether there are potential safety hazards due to human exposure to RF energy emitted by FCC-regulated transmitters. Heightened awareness of the expanding use of RF technology has led some people to speculate that "electromagnetic pollution" is causing significant risks to human health from environmental RF electromagnetic fields. This document is designed to provide factual information and to answer some of the most commonly asked questions related to this topic." - original source: U.S. Federal Communications Commission Office of Engineering and Technology, http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Engineering_Technology/Documents/bulletins/oet56/oet56e4.pdf
• EMF RF FIELD & FREQUENCY DEFINITIONS RF and EMF measurement tools need to be properly chosen to measure the particular type and frequency of RF or EMF signal that is of interest. See EMF RF FIELD & FREQUENCY DEFINITIONS for a simple explanation of different types of radio frequency (RF) and electromagnetic frequency (EMF) types and where they are found.
• Definitions of Gauss vs Milligauss for details about gauss and milligauss and definitions of these terms.
• Consumer Product Safety Commission, 800-638-CPSC.
• US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Pesticides and Toxic Substances, TSCA Assistance Office (TS-799), 800-424-9065 or 202-554-1404.
• "Evaluation of Potential Carcinogenicity of Electromagnetic Fields," EPA Report #EPA/600/6-90/005B October 1990. EPA: 513/569-7562.
• "Biological Effects of Power Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields" background paper, prepared as part of OTA's assessment of "Electric Power Wheeling and Dealing: Technological Considerations for Increasing Competition," prepared for OTA by Indira Nair, M. Granger Morgan, H. Keith Florig, Department of Engineering and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
• "Biological Effects of Power Line Fields," New York State Powerline Project. Scientific Advisory Board Final Report, July 1, 1987.
• "Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) Fields," Environmental Health Criteria 35. World Health Organization, Geneva, 1984.
• "Electric and Magnetic Fields at Extremely Low Frequencies: Interactions with Biological Systems. In: Non ionizing Radiation Protection, World Health Organization, Regional Office for Europe, Copenhagen, 1987.
• "Electric and Magnetic Fields from 60 Hertz Electric Power: What do we know about possible health risks?," Department of Engineering and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 1989.
• "Electromagnetic Fields Are Being Scrutinized for Linkage to Cancer," Sandra Blakeslee, New York Times, Medical Science section, April 2, 1991

Books & Articles on Building & Environmental Inspection, Testing, Diagnosis, & Repair

• Our recommended books about building design, inspection, and repair, and about indoor environment testing, diagnosis, and cleanup are at the InspectAPedia Bookstore.
• Electric Power Lines, Electromagnetic Fields, Cancer Risk, & "Enviro-Scare" - The Normal Curve Cycle of Public Fear of Environmental Issues
• Electromagnetic Fields in the Workplace sample very good NIOSH document online, links to other NIOSH docs.
• Electromagnetic Field Surveys & Hazards full list of our links to services and technical article
• Electric Power Lines, Electromagnetic Fields, Cancer Risk, & "Enviro-Scare" - The Normal Curve Cycle of Public Fear About Environmental Issues - online document by DF
• A Procedure for Measuring EMF electromagnetic fields online document by DF
• Environmental Concerns in Buildings, hazards: allergens, asbestos, brownfields
• ...

More Information on Building Diagnostic Inspections and Repairs

• Electric Power Lines, Electromagnetic Fields, Cancer Risk, & "Enviro-Scare" - The Normal Curve Cycle of Public Fear of Environmental Issues
• Electromagnetic Fields in the Workplace sample very good NIOSH document online, links to other NIOSH docs.

• Environmental Concerns in Buildings, hazards: allergens, asbestos, brownfields, - above ground or buried oil storage tanks, - A Procedure for Measuring EMF electromagnetic fields, - Electric Power Lines, Electromagnetic Fields, Cancer Risk, & "Enviro-Scare" - The Normal Curve Cycle of Public Fear of Environmental Issues - toxic gases & odors, IAQ, lead paint, - toxic mold inspections, - mold test kits - how to send a mold sample to our lab using an inexpensive and superior method - radon, sick buildings, UFFI (urea formaldehyde foam insulation), - sewage septic backup contamination testing & cleanup - water testing for bacteria, lead, etc.
• Electromagnetic Field Surveys & Hazards full list of our links to services and technical articles

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