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No effects of power line frequency extremely low frequency electromagnetic field exposure on selected neurobehavior tests of workers inspecting transformers and distribution line stations versus controls

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Abstract

We aimed to evaluate the interference of 50 Hz extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) occupational exposure on the neurobehavior tests of workers performing tour-inspection close to transformers and distribution power lines. Occupational short-term “spot” measurements were carried out. 310 inspection workers and 300 logistics staff were selected as exposure and control. The neurobehavior tests were performed through computer-based neurobehavior evaluation system, including mental arithmetic, curve coincide, simple visual reaction time, visual retention, auditory digit span and pursuit aiming. In 500 kV areas electric field intensity at 71.98 % of total measured 590 spots were above 5 kV/m (national occupational standard), while in 220 kV areas electric field intensity at 15.69 % of total 701 spots were above 5 kV/m. Magnetic field flux density at all the spots was below 1,000 μT (ICNIRP occupational standard). The neurobehavior score changes showed no statistical significance. Results of neurobehavior tests among different age, seniority groups showed no significant changes. Neurobehavior changes caused by daily repeated ELF-EMF exposure were not observed in the current study.

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Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the Guangdong Power Grid Corporation, Guangzhou, China.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare they have no competing financial interests.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Electric Power Research Institute of Guangdong Power Grid Corporation, No. 8 Shuijungang Dongfengdong Road, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China

    Li Li, Jia-wen Liu, Guang-cheng Zeng & Hua-liang Li

  2. Guangdong Huianhengda Management Consulting Co., Ltd, Guangzhou, China

    De-fu Xiong & Zi-xin Li

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  1. Li Li
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  2. De-fu Xiong
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Correspondence to Li Li.

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Li, L., Xiong, Df., Liu, Jw. et al. No effects of power line frequency extremely low frequency electromagnetic field exposure on selected neurobehavior tests of workers inspecting transformers and distribution line stations versus controls. Australas Phys Eng Sci Med 37, 37–44 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13246-013-0237-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13246-013-0237-6

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