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Electric and magnetic fields at three pulp and paper mills
M C Barroetavena1, R Ross, K Teschke
1Department of Health Care and Epidemiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal
|April 1, 1994
Summary
Extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields were measured in Canadian pulp and paper mills. Field levels were generally similar to the general population but could reach levels experienced by electrical workers in some areas.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Environmental science
- Electromagnetics
Background:
- Pulp and paper mills utilize significant electrical power, leading to potential exposure to extremely low frequency (ELF) electric and magnetic fields (EMFs).
- Understanding ELF EMF exposure levels in industrial settings is crucial for assessing potential occupational health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure and characterize extremely low frequency (60 Hz) electric and magnetic field levels within Canadian pulp and paper mills.
- To compare measured field levels to those experienced by the general population and electrical workers.
Main Methods:
- Point-in-time measurements of electric and magnetic fields were conducted at three distinct Canadian pulp and paper mill locations.
- Measurements were taken across various areas within the mills to capture a representative range of potential exposures.
Main Results:
- Most electric field measurements (92/132) were below the detection limit of 1 V/m, with a maximum of 47 V/m.
- Magnetic field strengths varied from below detection (<0.125 mG) to 706 mG, with a median of 1.6 mG.
- While higher power consumption correlated with higher magnetic fields, worker exposure was not predictable by plant power usage.
Conclusions:
- Overall ELF electric and magnetic field levels in the studied mills were comparable to those found in the general population.
- Certain areas within the mills exhibited maximum magnetic field intensities similar to those experienced by electrical workers, highlighting potential localized high exposures.