What are typical exposure levels in workplaces?
The widespread use of electricity means that in all workplaces, there will be levels of magnetic fields that would be considered “normal”. However, there are also localized sources of magnetic fields in the workplace such as electrical substations in the basement, power cables in the walls or floor and distribution lines close to the building. The field levels close to these sources will be relatively high and may cause computer screens to shimmer, for example. These levels may exceed the NHMRC limit . The only remedies currently available to reduce these fields, and the resultant exposure, is a combination of shielding and relocating the source (both very costly), or relocating the employees (also potentially costly). The general aim of any field reduction program is to minimize the exposure level for all staff. However, particular situations may require particular solutions and the local electricity supplier or the Electricity Suppliers Association of Australia should be consulted.
