Overview

Introduction to the Exposure Characterization and Management project set.

Introduction

Electric and magnetic fields (EMF) are present whenever and wherever 50/60 Hz electricity is generated, transmitted, and used. Radiofrequency (RF) emissions are prevalent due to the adoption of wireless communication devices, smart meters, and inverters associated with renewable sources, such as photovoltaic cells and power electronics. The electric grid, with its associated technologies, is experiencing a phase of rapid evolution and expansion to meet increasing demands for low carbon electrification. Environmental health and safety issues related to these 50/60 Hz EMF and RF exposure are evolving as the need for electrification and grid resiliency increases. Utility EMF professionals seek to address these concerns as part of managing a robust public health and worker safety program.

Objectives

This project set provides information and tools to characterize, manage, and mitigate EMF/RF exposures. EMF environments are changing due to the adoption of new transmission and distribution technologies, alternative energy resource projects, and emerging energy and telecommunication technologies (e.g., 5G). Utility worker exposure to EMF is particularly relevant when workers return to work following implantation of a medical device and are exposed to these sources.

To address these concerns, the EPRI research in this project set aims to:

  • Develop source measurement methods, calculational tools, and industry exposure databases to assist in characterizing the EMF and RF fields.
  • Investigate exposure mitigation options and approaches.
  • Develop exposure management practices and guidance.
  • Integrate aspects of at-pace learning for new occupational EMF issue managers and other stakeholders for knowledge transfer.

Approach

EMF Occupational Database 1.0:

Industry exposure database containing electric and magnetic field measurement data for typical equipment and job categories in the electricity industry. Database informs survey protocols and return-to-work evaluations for workers with implanted medical devices.

EMF Management Reference Book Second Edition:

Key technical resource for EMF staff and engineers to manage EMF issues at their utility. Updated content will be transitioned to a web-based platform for easier access.

Characterizing EMF from Submarine High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Cables:

Assessing the electrical environment near submarine cables is complex. This guide will propose an EMF evaluation criteria for submarine cables and provide a calculation methodology for assessing EMF.

5G Exposure Measurements:

Exposure assessments for 5G will be challenging to conduct due to design of technology. Exposure measurements will be conducted at 5G test facilities to provide a baseline understanding of the expected range of exposures.

EMF Now:

EMF Now is a monthly publication and summary of curated EMF and RF study results to keep members current on EMF/RF news and research studies being conducted around the world.

Future Work

  • Factors Affecting ELF Immunity Limits for Implantable Medical Devices
  • Assessment of RF Smart Home Technologies
  • RF and Smart Cities
  • Electrical Vehicle (EV) Charging Measurements
  • EMF Training Modules