Assessment of the Electromagnetic Field Exposure during the Use of Portable Radios in the Context of Potential Health Effects

Abstract

The paper presents research on the electromagnetic hazards related to the flow of electric currents throughout the bodies of employees using portable radios. The values often exceed established limits, which may lead to potential dysfunctions of the body and affect the safety of performed professional duties. The measurements of the electric field (E-field) distribution of a typical commercial portable radio, the limb contact current calculations, and the computer simulations determining a specific absorption rate (SAR) were supplemented with pilot neurophysiological tests. The assessment indicated a large spatial variability of the E-field strength around the devices. The head of the operator and the hand holding the radio were often in the electromagnetic field (EMF), which exceeded the established limits. The calculated SAR values ranged within the permitted limits. The conducted neurophysiological tests showed no effects of EMF exposure in comparison to the control group. The assessment of exposure to the EMF using a portable radio is initially performed by analyzing external measures: both computer simulations and measurements of workers’ limb currents. The SAR values exclude thermal effects; however, they do not eliminate potential neuromuscular effects. More neurophysiological tests are needed to obtain a broader picture of possible health effects.