A Study of Extremely Low Frequency Electromagnetic Field (ELF EMF) Exposure Levels at Multi Storey Apartment

Abstract

People living near to the transmission lines are exposed to the extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF EMF). The concern over the electromagnetic fields (EMFs) exposure is growing as it is categorized as non-ionising radiation (NIR) radiation in the electromagnetic spectrum. Scientific reports have suggested that the excess exposure to electromagnetic field (EMF) emitted from various electrical sources could lead to adverse health effects. This paper focuses on the ELF EMF radiation exposure level at multi-storey apartment located adjacent to 275kV transmission lines at Klang Valey area. The objective of this study is to determine the extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF EMF) radiated from the 275kV transmission line as well as to assess the potential EMF exposure received by the residence living in the apartment. The ELF EMF were assessed using electromagnetic probe for low frequency. The electric and magnetic fields level were evaluated and compared to the exposure limit recommended by International Commission of Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). It is observed that the magnetic field near the transmission lines are higher than the typical situation we normally obtain but still below the permissible exposure limit.