ETS-Lindgren HI-3638 ELV/VLF Electric Field Meter - Manual (Page 29)

www.ets-lindgren.com Guidelines for EMF Exposure 29
8.0 Guidelines for EMF Exposure
To provide a means for judging the significance of measured electromagnetic
field emissions found near a VDT, the scientific literature can be examined for
information on suggested exposure or emission limits. The exposure standards
used for the content presented in this manual apply to humans for the purpose of
establishing safe working or living environments where electromagnetic fields
exist. The exposure limits in this manual are those found that correspond most
closely to the predominant frequency range of VDTs. In some cases, the
standards apply to occupational exposure environments and in other cases, to
the general living environment; often standards for this latter case are referred to
as general population or public exposure limits.
Traditional approaches to radiation protection, principally derived from ionizing
radiation protection practices, usually differentiate between occupational and
public exposure. Generally, occupational exposure limits are higher (more
permissive) than public limits. This is because of the greater uncertainties
associated with the general public; in the work place, employees are generally
healthier, and possible exposure to potentially hazardous physical agents is
usually under much better control. For example, employers can inform workers of
situations which should be avoided; this is not the case for the general population
as a whole. Regardless of these considerations, it is informative to examine
some of the recommended exposure guides that apply to different organizations
and/or countries.