7. Exposure analysis, exposure assessment and current data on the exposure of the general public

The electric fields and currents induced in the human body during exposure to low-frequency fields can partially be determined only with large uncertainties. Thus, the independent Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) of the European Union points out, for example, that data and systematic studies on the dielectric properties of tissues at low frequencies are lacking. In its Research Agenda for low-frequency fields, the WHO recommends improving dosimetric models for tissue and tissue structures which are particularly sensitive to induced electric fields. Even technical professional associations such as IEEE/ICES have identified research needs in this context. To this end, a contribution is to be made.

When constructing and substantially modifying electrical power supply facilities, - for precautionary reasons - attention should be given to ensure that public exposure is not significantly increased. Investigations of low-frequency magnetic fields in Germany conducted mainly before 2000, revealed time-averaged exposures of about 0.1 microtesla. These data are to be updated.

Furthermore, electrical power supply facilities have to be operated in a way that considerable nuisance due to contact voltages (contact currents, discharge upon touching charged, ungrounded objects) and spark discharges is prevented (information on the implementation of the Ordinance on Electromagnetic Fields, Federal/Länder Working Group on Immission Protection, 2014). The occurrence of these effects is to be investigated more closely.

Research projects

7.1. Developing and refining dosimetric models for exposure analysis and assessment

The data on the electrical properties of organs and tissue structures are to be further improved. The data are intended for a better prediction of the internal field strengths actually occurring when external electric or magnetic fields act upon tissue.

7.2. Recording the general public's exposure to magnetic fields

Current data on the exposure of the general public are to be recorded using personal dosimeters. Random measurements in the vicinity of new or uprated lines are also planned.

7.3. Investigations of the occurrence of spark discharges and contact currents

The occurrence of contact currents in daily life, especially in the vicinity of power supply facilities, is to be investigated. On account of the expected higher ground field strengths, HVDC installations are to be included into the analysis as far as possible. Moreover, dosimetric models for various scenarios and population groups are to be developed which can be used for specifying the electric field strengths for the various tissues within the body when spark discharges and contact currents occur.

7.4. Determining the electric fields of overhead power lines

Measurement and calculation methods to determine the exposure to the electric fields of high-voltage overhead power lines (direct and alternating current) are to be developed and tested.

Outcome of the online consultation