Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF)

Electric and magnetic fields (EMF) from electrical transmission lines, are regulated under the provisions of Section 403.061(30), Florida Statutes and the rule is 62-814, Florida Administrative Code. Compliance with the EMF standards is demonstrated through monitoring and reporting by the utilities.

What are Electric and Magnetic Fields?

• Electric and magnetic fields are force fields created when electricity moves through a conductor such as wire.
• Electric and magnetic fields are associated with high-voltage transmission lines, secondary power lines, and home wiring and lighting.
• Electric and magnetic fields also arise from motors and heating coils in electronic equipment and appliances.

Electric and Magnetic Fields Health Studies:

• Electric and Magnetic Fields in the transmission line frequency range (60 Hertz) is classified as "non-ionizing radiation." Examples of this kind of radiation are sound waves, visible light and microwaves. Common uses for non-ionizing radiation include microwave radiation for telecommunications and heating food, and radio waves for broadcasting.
• The Florida Department of Health also regulates various sources of non-ionizing radiation, such as that from laser equipment, scanners used for bar code readers, lasers for medicine, as well as ionizing radiation such as X-rays.
• Because the use of electric power is so widespread, humans are constantly exposed to electric and magnetic fields. A report by the National Institute of Environmental Health Services provides additional information about Electric and Magnetic Fields and health.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides an information page on Electric and Magnetic Fields.