COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES 
Brussels, 11.06.1998 
COM(1998) 268 final 
98/0166 (CNS) 
Proposal for a 
COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION 
on the limitation of exposure of the general public 
to electromagnetic fields 
0 Hz-300 GHz 
(presented by the Commission) 

EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM 
INTRODUCTION 
With the advent of modern telecommunications, the expansion on a massive scale of 
electrical and electronic equipment, and the proliferation of high-voltage electricity 
transmission lines, interest in, and concerns about, the effects of electromagnetic fields 
considerably increased over the recent years, and calls are constantly being made for 
measures and guidelines in this area. 
Radiation from electromagnetic fields is quasi-ubiquitous. For health protection purposes 
it is usually distinguished between ionizing and non-ionizing. Community provisions with 
respect to the former have been laid down pursuant to the Euratom Treaty. 
Electromagnetic non-ionising radiation includes ultraviolet radiation, visible radiation, 
infrared radiation (which together constitute optical radiation) and static and time-varying 
electromagnetic fields (EMFs) The manner in which these different radiations and fields 
interact with people is quite different and potential hazards have to be carefully assessed 
For members of the general public, optical radiation presents significant adverse health 
risks. There is convincing scientific evidence that exposure to the sun is a major risk 
factor in skin cancer and may play a role in the onset of cataract. Depending on individual 
circumstances, other exposure to ultraviolet radiation, such as from sunbeds and 
unshielded lamps, may also contribute to an individual's risk, but generally to a much 
lesser extent than sun exposure. 
Concerning exposure of the general public to visible radiation (light), the most important 
with respect to potential for causing eye injury is laser radiation such as used for display 
and entertainment purposes. 
Guidelines for limiting exposure to optical radiation and recommendations for health 
protection have been published by various international bodies, and are currently under 
consideration at Community level. 
With respect to electromagnetic fields, concerns have been raised about possible health 
effects of exposure to artificially produced fields. While the acute effects of exposure to 
EMFs are generally well established, there is an ongoing debate as to the existence of 
long-term health effects, primarily cancer. In most Member States, authorities are 
constantly questioned about such effects. There is no convincing scientific evidence of 
EMFs causing cancer, however, and the concerns of the public can only be addressed 
through the results of focused research. There are however, health effects of EMFs that 
are well established, and these have been the object of various national regulations and 
international guidelines aimed at avoiding or limiting exposure which may give rise to 
them. 
Regulations and guidelines in this area aim at establishing systems of health protection on 
the basis of scientifically derived principles and criteria, and comprise basic restrictions for 
exposure limitation and reference levels for taking appropriate action if the basic 
restrictions are not to be exceeded. 
Underpinning the setting of basic restrictions and reference levels is information and 
scientific data concerning the sources and types of EMFs and health effects that may result 
from exposure to them. These are reviewed below. 
SOURCES AND TYPES OF EMFs 
People are exposed at work and in their living environment to different EMFs originating 
from many man-made sources. 
Sources of static electric and magnetic fields 
In addition to the environmental static electric and magnetic fields, new technologies such 
as visual display units (VDUs), and some public transportation systems, e.g. in 
underground trains and tramways, which utilize Direct Current (DC) supplies may involve 
exposure to static and slowly time varying fields. 
Power lines and electric appliances 
The principal artificial sources of extremely low frequency (ELF) fields are high voltage 
(HV) transmission lines, and devices containing current carrying wires. Inside buildings 
near HV transmission lines, electric fields are about 10 to 100 times lower than outside, 
depending on the structure of the building and the type of materials. Common building 
materials do not significantly attenuate magnetic fields. All electric appliances in homes 
and at workplaces are potential sources of power frequency (50/60 Hz) electric and 
magnetic fields. The magnetic fields vary from a few tenths of u.T to a few mT close to 
appliances and drop off rapidly with distance. 
Railway systems 
Most of the European railway systems are electrified, using DC voltage or AC voltage 
with frequencies of 16 2/3 Hz or 50 Hz. For instance, the resulting electric field strength 
inside a train using AC voltage is only a few V/m, while on the platform field strengths 
may be much higher The corresponding magnetic fields on the platform as well as inside 
the train are about a few tens of iiT during acceleration of the train and are highly variable 
with time. 
Broadcast transmitters 
Broadcast transmitters use frequency bands from around 145 kHz to I 10 MHz for LF, 
MF, MF and VHF radio broadcasting, and from 147 to 854 MHz for UHF television 
broadcasting Measurements at an MF station with two 50 kW and two 75 kW 
transmitters have indicated that at a distance of 30 m from a 75 kW mast radiator electric 
fields are about 275 V/m. Public access close to broadcast antennas is generally restricted. 
Cellular radio 
Mobile telecommunication systems can be divided into several categories, depending on 
the type of telecommunication network they use. Cellular mobile phone systems involve 
communication from hand-held radiotelephones or vehicle mounted transceivers to fixed 
base stations. Analogue cellular systems operate with frequency bands of 150, 200, 450 or 
900 MHz. The European digital system, based on the harmonised European standard 
GSM, operates primarily at 900 MHz and has been used since 1992. A new system called 
DCS 1800 operates at 1800 MHz with characteristics very similar to GSM, and future 
systems will operate at even higher frequencies. Exposure to fields from hand-held mobile 
telephones is generally restricted only to small regions of the user's body, in the head and 
hand. 
Mobile phone base stations 
Base stations are usually mounted on separate towers or on the roofs of buildings, and 
access to the immediate vicinity of antennas should be restricted. The transmitting 
antennas are formed from vertical arrays of colinear dipoles which give a very narrow 
vertical beam width. The downward tilt of the antennas is less than 10°, and hence public 
exposure to the main beams is usually not possible at distances of less than about 60 m, 
and human exposure levels are very low in most cases. 
Radar 
Radar systems use microwave frequencies from 500 MHz up to around 15 GHz, although 
there are some systems operating up to 100 GHz. The signal produced differ from most of 
the sources in that they are pulsed and give average powers which are several orders of 
magnitude less than peak powers. 
The antennas used for radars are moderately directive with main beams only a few degrees 
wide. Many of the systems feature antennas whose direction is continuously varied by 
rotating horizontally or nodding vertically. 
Marine radar equipment ranges from large installations of super-tankers to the smaller 
mast mounted equipment used by yachts. Under normal operating conditions with the 
antenna rotating, the average power density of the higher power systems within a metre of 
the turning circle of the radar system can be calculated to be less of 10 W m*2. 
HEALTH EFFECTS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS -A BASIS 
FOR EXPOSURE RESTRICTIONS 
Health effects result from coupling between fields and the body. There are established 
basic coupling mechanisms through which static and time-varying electric and magnetic 
fields directly interact with living matter1: 
- coupling to static and ELF electric fields leads to surface charges on an exposed body 
which can be perceived; 
- coupling to static magnetic fields by magnetic induction resulting in the flow of electric 
current and electric potentials across blood vessels; magnetomechanic interactions, 
resulting in forces on ferromagnetic molecules, magnetic particles and ferromagnetic 
implants; and electronic interaction processes which may affect chemical reactions; 
- coupling to low-frequency electric fields results in the flow of electric charges (electric 
current), the polarisation of bound charge (formation of electrical dipoles), and the 
reorientation of electric dipoles already present in tissue; 
- coupling to low-frequency magnetic fields results in induced electric fields and 
circulating electric currents that can lead to electrical stimulation effects; 
- absorption of energy from electromagnetic fields of frequencies greater than 100 kHz 
or so, can lead to significant heating. 
In addition, there are two indirect coupling mechanisms: 
- contact currents or transient discharges that result when the human body touches an 
object at a different electrical potential (i.e., when either the object or the human body 
is charged by an electromagnetic field); 
- coupling of electromagnetic fields to medical devices worn by a human. 
The evidence concerning health effects on which limitations of exposure are based can be 
summarized separately for different frequency ranges. 
Health effects of static fields 
The few experimental studies that have been carried out on the biological effects of static 
electric fields provide no evidence to suggest the existence of any adverse effects on 
human health. For most people, the annoying perception of surface electric charges, acting 
directly on the surface of the body, will not occur during exposure to static electric field 
strengths of less than about 25 kV/m. 
1 United Nations Environment Programme/World Health Organization/International Radiation Protection 
Association. Electromagnetic fields (300 Hz to 300 GHz). Geneva, World Health Organization; 
Environmental Health Criteria 137; 1993 
There is no direct experimental evidence of any acute adverse effect on human health from 
exposure to static magnetic fields up to 2 T. From the analysis of established mechanisms 
of interaction, long-term exposure to magnetic flux densities of 200 mT should not have 
any adverse consequences on health. 
Health effects of time varying fields at frequencies below 100 kHz 
Laboratory studies on cellular and animal systems have found no established effects of 
low-frequency fields that are indicative of adverse health effects when induced current 
density is at or below 10 mA/m2. At higher levels of induced current density (10-100 
mA/m2), more significant tissue effects have been consistently observed, such as functional 
changes in the nervous system. 
Measurement of biological responses in laboratory studies and in volunteers has provided 
little indication of adverse effects of low-frequency fields at levels to which people are 
commonly exposed. A threshold current density of 10 mA/m2 at frequencies up to 1 kHz 
has been estimated for minor effects on nervous system functions. Among volunteers, the 
most consistent effects of exposure are the appearance of visual phosphenes (faint 
flickering visual sensation) and a minor reduction in heart rate during or immediately after 
exposure to ELF fields, but there is no evidence that these transient effects are associated 
with any long-term health risk. A reduction in nocturnal pineal melatonin synthesis has 
been observed in several rodent species following exposure to weak ELF electric and 
magnetic fields, but no consistent effect has been reported in humans exposed to ELF 
fields under controlled conditions. 
There is no convincing experimental evidence that ELF electromagnetic fields cause 
genetic damage and it is therefore extremely unlikely that they could have any effect on the 
initiation of cancer. There is little evidence from laboratory studies that power-frequency 
magnetic fields have a tumor-promoting effect. Although further animal studies are needed 
to clarify the possible effects of ELF fields on signals produced in cells and on endocrine 
regulation — both of which could influence the development of tumors by promoting the 
proliferation of initiated cells — it can only be concluded that there is currently no 
convincing evidence for carcinogenic effects of these fields and that these data cannot be 
used as a basis for developing exposure guidelines. 
Epidemiological data on cancer risk associated with exposure to extremely low frequency 
(ELF) fields among individuals living close to power lines seem to indicate a slightly 
higher risk of leukaemia among children. The studies do not, however, indicate a similarly 
elevated risk of any other type of childhood cancer or of any form of adult cancer. The 
basis for the hypothetical link between childhood leukemia and residence in close 
proximity to power lines is unknown. In the absence of support from laboratory studies, 
the epidemiological data are insufficient to allow the recommendation of an exposure limit. 
There have been reports of an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as leukemia, 
nervous tissue tumors, and, to a limited extent, breast cancer, among electrical workers. In 
most studies, job titles were used to classify subjects according to presumed levels of 
magnetic field exposure. A few more recent studies, however, have used more 
sophisticated methods of exposure assessment; overall, these studies suggested an 
increased risk of leukemia or brain tumors but were largely inconsistent with regard to the 
type of cancer for which risk is increased. The data are insufficient to provide a basis for 
ELF field exposure guidelines. In a large number of epidemiological studies, no consistent 
evidence of adverse reproductive effects have been provided. 
Health effects of fields at frequencies between 100 kHz and 300 GHz 
Available experimental evidence indicates that the exposure of resting humans for 
approximately 30 minutes to EMF producing a whole-body Specific Absorption Rate 
(SAR) of between 1 and 4 W/kg results in a body temperature increase of less than 1°C. 
Animal data indicate a threshold for behavioral responses in the same SAR range. 
Exposure to more intense fields, producing SAR values in excess of 4 W/kg, can 
overwhelm the thermoregulatory capacity of the body and produce harmful levels of tissue 
heating. Many laboratory studies with rodent and non-human primate models have 
demonstrated the broad range of tissue damage resulting from either partial-body or 
whole-body heating producing temperature rises in excess of 1-2 °C. The sensitivity of 
various types of tissue to thermal damage varies widely, but the threshold for irreversible 
effects in even the most sensitive tissues is greater than 4 W/kg under normal 
environmental conditions. These data form the basis for an occupational exposure 
restriction of 0.4 W/kg, which provides a large margin of safety for other limiting 
conditions such as high ambient temperature, humidity, or level of physical activity. 
Both laboratory data and the results of limited human studies make it clear that thermally 
stressful environments and the use of drugs or alcohol can compromise the 
thermoregulatory capacity of the body. Under these conditions, safety factors should be 
introduced to provide adequate protection for exposed individuals. 
Data on human responses to high-frequency EMFs that produce detectable heating have 
been obtained from controlled exposure of volunteers and from epidemiological studies on 
workers exposed to sources such as radar, medical diathermy equipment, and heat sealers. 
They are fully supportive of the conclusions drawn from laboratory work, that adverse 
biological effects can be caused by temperature rises in tissue that exceed 1°C. 
Epidemiological studies on exposed workers and the general public have shown no major 
health effects associated with typical exposure environments. Although there are 
deficiencies in the epidemiological work, such as poor exposure assessment, the studies 
have yielded no convincing evidence that typical exposure levels lead to adverse 
reproductive outcomes or an increased cancer risk in exposed individuals. This is 
consistent with the results of laboratory research on cellular and animal models, which 
have demonstrated neither teratogenic nor carcinogenic effects of exposure to athermal 
levels of high-frequency EMFs. 
Exposure to pulsed EMFs of sufficient intensity leads to certain predictable effects such as 
the microwave hearing phenomenon and various behavioural responses. Epidemiological 
studies on exposed workers and the general public have provided limited information and 
failed to demonstrate any health effects. Reports of severe retinal damage have been 
challenged following unsuccessful attempts to replicate their findings. 
A large number of studies of the biological effects of amplitude-modulated EMFs, mostly 
conducted with low levels of exposure, have yielded both positive and negative results. 
Thorough analysis of these studies reveals that the effects of AM fields vary widely with 
the exposure parameters, the types of cells and tissues involved, arid the biological end-
points that are examined. In general, the effects of exposure of biological systems to 
athermal levels of amplitude-modulated EMFs are small and very difficult to relate to 
potential health effects. There is no evidence of frequency and power density windows of 
response to these fields. 
Shocks and burns can be the adverse indirect effects of high-frequency EMFs involving 
human contact with metallic objects in the field. At frequencies of 100 kHz - 110 MHz 
(the upper limit of the FM broadcast band), the threshold levels of contact current that 
produce effects ranging from perception to severe pain do not vary significantly as a 
function of the field frequency. The threshold for perception ranges from 25 to 40 mA in 
individuals of different sizes, and that for pain from approximately 30 to 55 mA; above 50 
mA there may be severe burns at the site of tissue contact with a metallic conductor in the 
field. 
Formulation of basic restrictions for the exposure of the general 
public 
Based on previously summarized information on health effects, it can be concluded that: 
- In a 200 mT static magnetic field, the calculated maximum induced current density (in 
the aorta) is 44 mA/m2, which is below that which would be expected to produce 
adverse haemodynamic or cardiovascular effects. 
- Functions of the central nervous system may be adversely affected by current densities 
above 10 mA/m2 at frequencies between approximately 5 Hz and 1 kHz, and by larger 
current densities at frequencies above and below this frequency range. This determines 
basic restrictions in terms of current density. 
- For frequencies above about 100 kHz, adverse biological effects can result from 
temperature elevations in tissue that exceed 1°C. From this, basic restrictions in terms 
of the specific energy absorption rate (SAR) are derived, for whole body and for 
localised exposure. For frequencies above 10 GHz, energy absorption is restricted to 
the surface of the exposed body, and basic restrictions are accordingly expressed in 
terms of power density. 
- The threshold levels of contact current are strongly frequency dependent between 
several Hz and 100 kHz. Over the frequency range from 100 kHz to 110 MHz (the 
upper limit of the FM broadcast band), the threshold levels of contact current that 
produce effects ranging from perception to severe pain do not vary significantly as a 
function of the field frequency. Reference levels for both contact current and induced 
current are set in order to determine whether caution must be excercised to avoid shock 
and burn hazards. 
The uncertainty in the scientific data, and the variations in terms of individual susceptibility 
as well as variations in actual exposure situations necessitate the use of safety factors when 
deriving restrictions to exposure. 
OVERVIEW OF RELEVANT MEASURES TAKEN BY MEMBER 
STATES 
Only a few Member States have promulgated comprehensive regulations and standards for 
the protection of the general public against electromagnetic radiation. In view of mounting 
public concern on this subject, however, several Member States and third countries are 
giving urgent consideration to adopting health protection measures. In this context some 
Member States indicated a need to obtain orientations as to the nature and extent of such 
health protection measures. 
Some Member States have issued recommendations and some introduced compulsory 
provisions for either low and/or high frequency electromagnetic fields. A review of 
provisions and guidelines in this field was published by the Commission2. In general, 
Member States make a distinction between health protection requirements of workers and 
members of the general public. One Member State, however, does not adhere to this 
rationale, but distinguishes between exposure of adults and children. 
OVERVIEW OF COMMUNITY ACTS OF RELEVANCE 
Public Health 
The European Parliament adopted in 1994 a resolution on combating the harmful effects 
of non-ionizing radiation3 and called on the Commission to propose regulations and 
standards seeking to limit the exposure of workers and the public to non-ionizing 
electromagnetic radiation. 
In the context of the framework for action in the field of public health4, the Commission 
adopted on 4 June 1997 a proposal for a programme of Community action 1999-2003 on 
pollution-related diseases5 which takes account of the fact that health risks including those 
associated with exposure to electromagnetic fields, are often perceived by the public very 
differently from what is established by scientific evidence; consequently, the Commission 
proposed to tackle this problem with actions targeted at improving capactiy in the Member 
2 European Commission, Non-ionizing radiation: Sources, exposure and health effects, Office for Official 
Publications of the European Communities, 1996, ISBN 92-827-5492-8 
3 OJ N° C 205, 25.7.94, p. 439 
4 COM (93) 559 final, 24.11.1993 
5 OJ N° C 214, 16.7.1997, p. 7-10 
10 
States to acquire a better understanding of public perceptions of environmental health 
risks, and better explain how they are assessed and managed. 
Health and Safety at Work 
Minimum requirements in respect of the protection of workers against certain exposure 
situations have been laid down pursuant to Article 118A of the EC Treaty. 
Health and safety protection requirements for work with display screen equipment were 
laid down in Council Directive 90/270/EEC6. This obliges employers to take appropriate 
steps to ensure that workstations, i.e. an assembly of visual display units, keyboards, 
accessories and periphals including telephone, modem and printer, meet certain minimum 
requirements. All radiation with the exception of the visible part of the electromagnetic 
spectrum must be reduced to negligible levels from the point of view of the protection of 
workers' safety and health. 
Council Directive 92/85/EEC7 on the introduction of measures to encourage 
improvements in the safety and health at work of pregnant workers stipulates that the 
employer has to assess all activities liable to involve a specific risk of exposure to agents, 
including non-ionizing radiation, processes or working conditions, and has to look into the 
nature, degree and duration of exposure, in order to decide what measures should be 
taken. 
Moreover, the Commission presented in 1993 a proposal for a Council Directive on the 
minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers arising from 
physical agents8. The physical agents to which the Directive would apply are noise, 
mechanical vibration, optical radiation and other electromagnetic fields and waves. The 
proposed directive, which was amended subsequent to the opinion of the European 
Parliament in a first reading9 refers to risks to the health and safety of workers due to the 
effects of electric fields and currents, as well as of absorption of energy, resulting from 
exposure to static and time-varying electric and magnetic fields with frequencies up to 
300G Hz. 
Product Safety 
Essential requirements related to emission characteristics of machinery have been laid 
down at Community level in the context of the establishment of the Internal Market, in 
particular on the basis of Article 100A of the EC Treaty. Council Directive 73/23/EEC10 
on the harmonisation of the laws of Member States relating to electrical equipment 
designed for use within certain voltage limits and specially Annex 1 thereof establishes that 
electrical equipment may be placed onto the market only if it complies with certain 
6OJN°L156, 21.6.90, p. 14-18 
7OJN°L348, 28.11.92, p. 1-8 
8 OJ N° C 77, 18.3.1993, p. 12-29 
9 OJ N° C 230, 19.8.1994, p. 3-29 
10 OJ N° L 077, 26.3.73, p. 29-33 
II 
essential requirements which include measures to ensure that temperatures, arcs or 
radiation which would cause danger are not produced. 
Council Directive 89/336/EECn on the approximation of the laws of the Member States 
relating to electromagnetic compatibility aims at avoiding electromagnetic disturbance in 
order to provide adequate protection to apparatus such as telecommunications networks, 
industrial and manufacturing equipment, medical and scientific apparatus, information 
technology equipment or domestic appliances and household electronic equipment. To this 
end, the apparatus covered b\ the Directive shall be constructed so that the 
electromagnetic disturbance gene ted does not exceed a level allowing radio and 
télécommunications equipment an* other apparatus to operate as intended; and the 
apparatus has an adequate level of intrinsic immunity of electromagnetic disturbance to 
enable it to operate as intended. 
Environmental impact Assessment 
Council Directive 85/337/EEC12 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and 
private projects on the environment as amended by Council Directive 97/11/EC1'1 applies, 
amongst other projects, to the construction of overhead electrical power lines with a 
voltage of 220kV or more and a length of more than 15 km. This means that developers 
will have to provide information on the measures envisaged in order to avoid, reduce and, 
if possible, remedy significant adverse effects, as well as an outline of main alternatives 
studied by the developer and an indication of the main reasons for his choice. 
In order to complement provisions of Directive 97/11/EC, the Commission proposed a 
Council Directive on the assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the 
environment14. The proposal aims at plans and programmes which are part of a town and 
country planning decision-making process for the purpose of establishing the framework 
for subsequent development consent, including strategic plans and programmes adopted in 
the energy, transport and telecommunications sectors. 
Research 
Under the fourth framework programme of the European Community for research, 
technological development and demonstration (1994-98)15 a number of EMF-related 
research activities has been or is still carried out. In particular, Biomed 2, COST and the 
Standard, Measurement and Testing programmes have supported proposals, and some of 
them are still ongoing. 
Potential adverse health effects from exposure to radioffequencies were also addressed in 
the Commission's Green Paper on a common approach in the field of mobile and personal 
" OJ N° L 139, 23.05.89, p. 19-26 
12 OJ N° L 175, 5.7.85, p. 40-48 
,3OJN°L73, 14.3.97, p. 5-15 
14 COM (96) 511 final, and OJ N° C 129, 25.4.97, p. 14 
,5OJN°L126, 18.5.94, p. 1-33 
12 
communications16. As a result and in response to the European Parliaments Resolution on 
combating the harmful effects of non-ionising radiation, the Commission confirmed the 
need for further research in this area, and a working group of experts elaborated for the 
Commission pertinent recommendations for epidemiological, biophysical and biological 
research, and also for research on exposure systems and dosimetry. The proposed research 
agenda17 covers also effects on the immune system, nervous system-related effects, and 
genetic and cancer-related effects. These have been and still are of utmost concern to the 
public and the European Parliament. 
The Commission took account of the experts' recommendations, and of the need for 
research with respect to health effects from exposure to other frequencies, when drawing 
up its proposal concerning the 5th framework programme of the European Community for 
research, technological development and demonstration activities (1998-2002)18. 
Moreover, the Commission recognises that risk communication is clearly important in this 
area because of the controversy over alleged long-term effects, and has proposed research 
on gaining a better understanding of the public's risk perception and on the assessment, 
communication and management of risks. 
THE PROPOSED RECOMMENDATIONS 
The ever-growing involvement of the Community in promoting activities in various 
industrial sectors likely to increase exposure of the population to electromagnetic fields, 
and the mounting concern over their effects of decision-makers, health professionals, 
interest groups, and members of the public, make it imperative to undertake efforts to 
establish commonly-agreed principles in this field at Community level. 
Requirements that exist in some Member States result in varying regimes as regards the 
public's protection against electromagnetic fields. The existing variations and gaps in 
provisions and guidelines contribute to a sense of confusion and insecurity felt by many 
Community citizens and undermines confidence in health protection authorities. In keeping 
with the goal of making a contribution towards ensuring a high level of health protection 
to the citizens of the Community, and in view of the moves in this area undertaken by 
some Member States, the Commission considers it necessary to propose a common 
framework for protection of the general public to electromagnetic fields. Such a 
framework can be put in place by Council recommendations under Article 129 of the EC 
Treaty, and should deal with the general principles of limitation of exposures so that 
adverse health effects can be prevented. 
The aim of the proposal for a Council Recommendation is, therefore, to provide for a 
commonly agreed framework concerning a high level of protection against exposure of the 
general public to electromagnetic fields (EMFs), based on a set of basic restrictions and 
16 COM(94) 145 final 
17 The document "studyhr.doc" can be downloaded from the internet site 
http://www.ispo.cec.be/infosoc/telecompoliy/en 
18 COM (97) 142 final, and OJ N° C 173, 7.6.97, p. 10 
13 
reference levels developed internationally by the foremost experts in this field. The 
proposed recommendations on basic restriction and reference levels follow the advice of 
the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and are 
based on the best available scientific data. They concern exposure of individual members 
of the public and not emissions from specific devices or equipment. The advice of ICNIRP 
has been endorsed by the Commission's Scientific Steering Committee. 
The proposed recommendation is not intended to apply to occupational exposure and 
exposure of patients and voî uteers during medical procedures. Problems of 
electromagnetic compatibility and terference with medical devices are not addressed in 
this proposal. Providing for a comprehensive system of protection m thh area which 
includes detailed provisions and guidelines relevant not only to the exposure of individuals 
but also to the emissions from equipment and the burden from practices involving such 
exposures should be the task of the Member States, account taken of Community 
provisions in this field. 
The recommended basic restrictions are directly based on established health effects only. 
The reference levels are recommended to be used for practical exposure assessment 
purposes.19 Respect of reference levels will ensure respect of the relevant basic restriction. 
If the measured value exceeds the reference level, it does not necessarily follow that the 
basic restriction will be exceeded. Under such circumstances, however, there is a need to 
establish whether the basic restriction has indeed been respected. 
It is recommended that when an exceedance of reference levels occurs, an assessment of 
the exposure situation should be carried out; it is up to the Member States to arrange for 
assessments and follow-up actions. The assessment of the actual exposure situation could 
take criteria such as the duration of the exposure, the exposed parts of the body, the 
number of exposed members of the public, their age and health status into account. 
Follow-up actions would have to be decided by the Member States with respect to the 
specific exposure situation which might call for measures such as the provision of 
information for the public exposed, the establishment of minimum distances to be kept to 
the source of exposure, changes in the installation or design of the specific source, or in 
the way the source is operated. Member States might decide to consider cost-benefit 
aspects when such action in respect of the exposure of members of the public is 
undertaken. 
Finally, in order to take timely stock of the regulatory and actual exposure situation and of 
any scientific or technological developments that may require a prompt response, the 
Commission proposes that the Member States prepare reports on their measures and 
guidelines in the field covered by the proposed recommendation, and indicating how the 
latter has been taken into account, and that an overall report be presented by the 
Commission based on the reports of the Member States. 
19 A similar system has been proposed for health and safety requirements for the protection of workers 
were a framework of threshold values and action values was presented. 
14 
PROPOSAL FOR A 
COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION 
on the limitation of exposure of the general public 
to electromagnetic fields 
0 Hz-300 GHz 
(presented by the Commission) 
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION; 
Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in 
particular Article 129 thereof; 
Having regard to the proposal from the Commission1, 
Having regard to the opinion of the European Parliament2; 
1. Whereas in accordance with point (o) of Article 3 of the Treaty, Community 
action must include a contribution towards the attainment of a high level of 
health protection; 
2. Whereas the European Parliament in its resolution on combating the harmful 
effects of non-ionizing radiation3 called on the Commission to propose 
measures seeking to limit the exposure of workers and the public to non­
ionizing electromagnetic radiation; 
3. Whereas Community minimum requirements for the protection of health and 
safety of workers in relation to electromagnetic fields exist for work with 
display screen equipment4; whereas Community measures were introduced to 
encourage improvements in the safety and health at work of pregnant workers 
and workers who have recently given birth or are breastfeeding5 which oblige, 
inter alia, employers to assess activities which involve a specific risk of 
exposure to non-ionizing radiation; whereas minimum requirements have been 
proposed for the protection of workers from physical agents6 which include 
measures against non-ionizing radiation; 
4. Whereas it is imperative to protect members of the general public in the 
Community against established adverse health effects that may result as a 
consequence of exposure to electromagnetic fields; 
5. Whereas measures with regard to electromagnetic fields should afford all 
Community citizens a high level of protection; whereas provisions by Member 
1 OJ xxx 
2 O.J. xxx 
3 O.J. N° C 205, 25.7.94, p. 439 
4O.J.N°L156,21.6.90,p. 14-18 
5O.J.N°L 348, 28.11.92, p. 1-8 
6 O.J. N° C 77, 18.3.93, p. 12 and O.J. N° C 230, 19.8.94, p. 3-29 
16 
Slates in this area should be based on a commonly agreed framework, so as to 
ensure consistency of protection throughout the Community; 
6. Whereas in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity, any new measure 
taken in an area which does not fall within the exclusive competence of the 
Community, such as non-ionizing radiation protection of the public, may be 
taken up by the Community only if, by reasons of the scale or effects of the 
proposed action, the objectives proposed can be better achieved by the 
Community than by Member States; 
7. Whereas there is a need to establish a Community framework for the protection 
of the public with regard to electromagnetic fields by means of 
recommendations to Member States. 
8. Whereas this framework must be based on the best available scientific data and 
advice in this area and should comprise basic restrictions and reference levels 
on exposure to electromagnetic fields; whereas advice on this matter has been 
given by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection 
(ICNIRP) and has been endorsed by the Commission's Scientific Steering 
Committee. 
9. Whereas such basic restrictions and reference levels should apply to all 
radiations emitted by electromagnetic fields with the exception of optical 
radiation and ionizing radiation; whereas for the former relevant scientific data 
and advice still requires additional consideration, and whereas for the the latter 
Community provisions already exist; 
10. Whereas adherence to the recommended restrictions and reference levels 
should provide a high level of protection in respect of established health effects 
that may result from exposure to electromagnetic fields, but may not 
necessarily avoid intereference problems with, or effects on the functioning of, 
medical devices such as metallic prothèses, cardiac pacemakers and 
defibrillators, and cochlear implants; whereas interference problems with 
pacemakers may occur at levels below the recommended reference levels and 
should be the object of appropriate precautions which, however, are not within 
the scope of this recommendation; 
17 
11. Whereas, in accordance with the principle of proportionality, this 
recommendation must set general principles and methods of protection for 
members of the public while leaving it to the Member States to provide for 
detailed rules for sources and practices giving rise to exposure to 
electromagnetic fields and the classification of conditions of exposure of 
individuals as work-related or not, account taken of and in accordance with, 
Community provisions concerning the safety and health protection of workers; 
12. Whereas Member States may provide for a higher level of health protection 
than that reflected in these recommendations; 
13. Whereas measures by the Member States in this area, whether binding or non-
binding and the way they have taken into account these recommendations 
should be the object of reports at national and Community level; 
14. Whereas in order to increase awareness of risks and measures of protection 
against electromagnetic fields the Member States should promote the 
dissemination of information and rules of practice in this field, in particular with 
regard to the design, installation and use of equipment, so as to aim to obtain 
that levels of exposure will not exceed the recommended restrictions; 
15. Whereas attention should be paid to appropriate understanding and 
communication on risks related to electromagnetic fields taking into account 
public perceptions of such risks; 
16. Whereas the Member States should take note of progress made in scientific 
knowledge and technology with respect to non-ionising radiation protection; 
whereas these recommendations should be reviewed in particular in the light of 
guidance by competent international organisations such as the International 
Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection; 
18 
IIKRKBY RK(X)MMRNDS Tl IAT 
I Member States assign for the purpose of this Recommendation to the 
physical quantities listed in Annex I.A the meaning given to them therein; 
II. Member States, in order to provide for a high level of health protection 
against exposure to electromagnetic fields: 
a) adopt a framework of basic restrictions and reference levels using as 
a basis that given in Annex IB; 
b) implement measures in respect of sources or practices giving rise to 
exposure of the general public to electromagnetic fields on the basis 
of such a framework; 
c) aim to achieve respect of the basic restrictions given in Annex II for 
public exposure; 
III. Member States, in order to facilitate and promote respect of the basic 
restrictions given in Annex II: 
a) use the reference levels given in Annex III for exposure assessment 
purposes to determine whether the basic restrictions are likely to be 
exceeded; 
b) evaluate situations involving sources of more than one frequency in 
accordance with the formulas set up in Annex IV, both in terms of 
basic restrictions and reference levels; 
IV. Member States, in order to increase understanding of risks and protection 
against exposure to electromagnetic fields: 
provide in an appropriate format information to the public on the health 
impact of electromagnetic fields and the measures taken to address them; 
19 
V Member States, in order to enhance knowledge about the health effects of 
elect lomai'.uelic fields 
promote and review research relevant to l;.Mf and human health in the 
context of their national research programmes, taking into account 
Community and international research recommendations and efforts, 
VI. Member States, in order to contribute to the establishment of a consistent 
system of protection agar.si risks of exposure to electromagnetic fields: 
prepare reports on the adoption and implementation of measures that they 
take in the field covered by this Recommendation, and inform the 
Commission thereof after a period of three years following the adoption of 
this Recommendation, indicating how the latter has been taken into account 
in these measures. 
iNviri'is 
the Commission to prepare a report for the Community as a whole taking 
into account the reports of the Member States, and keep the matters 
covered in this recommendation under review, with a view to its revision 
and updating. 
Done at llrussels, foi the Council 
The President 
21) 
ANNEX S 
DK1 INITIONS 
in the context of this recommendation, the term electromagnetic fields include static 
fields, extremely low frequency (FFF) fields and radiofrequency (Rl;) fields, including 
microwaves, encompassing the frequency range of 0 Hz to 300 GHz. 
A. Physical Quantities 
In the context of EM F exposure, eight physical quantities are commonly used: 
I. ( \>ntaci current ('/<•) between a person and an object is expressed in amperes (A). A 
conductive object in an electric field can be charged by the field. 
2 Current density (J) is defined as the current (lowing through a unit cross section 
perpendicular to its direction in a volume conductor such as the human body or part 
of it, expressed in amperes per square metre (A/irf). 
3. Idectric field strength is a vector quantity (K) that corresponds to the force exerted 
on a charged particle* regardless of its motion in space. It is expressed in volts per 
metre (V/m). 
•I Magnetic field strength is a vector quantity (31), which, together with the magnetic 
llux density, specifies a magnetic field at any point in space. It is expressed in 
amperes pel metre (Ami) 
5. Magnetic flux density is a vector quantity (B), resulting in a force that acts on 
moving charges, it is expressed in teslas (T). In free space and in biological 
materials, magnetic flux density and magnetic field strength can be interchanged 
using the equivalence 1 A m"1 ~ 47C 10"7 T. 
(>. Power density (S) is the appropriate quantity used for very high frequencies, where 
the depth of penetration in the body is low. It is the radiant power incident 
perpendicular to a surface, divided by the area of the surface and is expressed in 
watts per square metre (YV/nf ). 
7 Specific energy absorption (SA) is defined as the energy absorbed per unit mass of 
biological tissue, expressed in joules per kilogram (J/kg). In these recommendations 
it is used for limiting non-thermal effects from pulsed microwave radiation. 
X Specific energy absorption rate (SAR) averaged over the whole body or over parts 
of the body, is defined as the rate at which energy is absorbed per unit mass of the 
body tissue and is expressed in watts per kilogram (W/kg). Whole body SAR is a 
widely accepted measure for relating adverse thermal effects to RF exposure. Be­
sides the whole body average SAR, local SAR values are necessary to evaluate and 
limit excessive energy deposition in small parts of the body resulting from special 
exposure conditions. Examples of such conditions are: a grounded individual 
exposed to RF in the low MHz range and individuals exposed in the near field of an 
antenna. 
21 
Of these quantities, magnetic tlux density, contact current, electric and magnetic field 
strengths and power density can be measured directly. 
B. Basic restrictions and reference levels 
For the application of restrictions based on the assessment of possible health effects of 
electromagnetic fields, differentiation should be made between basic restrictions and 
reference levels. 
lutsic restrictions. Restrictions on exposure to time-varying electric, magnetic, and 
electromagnetic fields that at based directly on established health effects and 
biological considerations are termed "basic restrictions". Depending upon the 
frequency of the field, the physical quantities used to specify these restrictions are 
magnetic llux density (B), current density (.1), specific energy absorption rate 
(SAR), and power density (S). Magnetic flux density and power density can be 
readily measured in exposed individuals. 
Reference levels. These levels are provided for practical exposure assessment 
purposes to determine if* the basic restrictions are likely to be exceeded. Some 
icierenee levels are derived from relevant, basic restrictions using measurements 
and/or computational techniques and some address perception and adverse indirect 
effects of exposure to l'Mls. The derived quantities are electric field strength (E), 
magnetic field strength (H), magnetic llux density (B), power density (S), and limb 
current (//). Quantities that address perception and other indirect effects are 
(contact) current (/.•) and, for pulsed fields, specific energy absorption (SA). In any 
particular exposure situation, measured or calculated values of any of these 
quantities can be compared with the appropriate reference level. Respect of the 
reference level will ensure respect of the relevant basic restriction. If the measured 
value exceeds the reference level, it does not necessarily follow that the basic 
icstriction will be exceeded. Under such circumstances, however, there is a need to 
establish whether there is respect of the basic restriction. 
Quantitative restrictions on static electric fields are not given in these 
recommendations. However, it is recommended that annoying perception of surface 
electric charges and spark discharges causing stress or annoyance should be avoided. 
Some quantities such as the magnetic tlux density (B) and the power density (S) serve 
both as basic restrictions and reference levels, at certain frequencies (see Annex II and 
HI) 
22 
ANNKX II 
BASIC RESTRICTIONS 
Depending on frequency, the following physical quantities (dosimetric / exposimetric 
quantities) are used to specify the basic restrictions on electromagnetic fields: 
Between 0 and 1 Hz basic restrictions are provided for magnetic flux density for static 
magnetic fields (0 Hz) and current density for time varying fields up to 1 Hz, in order 
to prevent effects on the cardiovascular and central nervous system. 
Between 1 Hz and 10 MHz basic restrictions are provided for current density to 
prevent effects on nervous system functions. 
Between 100 kHz and 10 (ill/, basic restrictions on SAR are provided to prevent 
whole-body heat stress and excessive localised heating of tissues In the range 100 kHz 
to 10 Ml I/, i est i id ions on both anient density and SAR are provided. 
Between K) (ill/ ami >()() (ill/ basic leshielions on power density aie provided to 
pi event heating in tissue at or near the body suiface 
The basic restrictions, given in fable 1, are set so as to account for uncertainties 
related to individual sensitivities, environmental conditions, and for the fact that the 
age and health status of members of the public vary. 
23 
Table 1 : Basic restrictions for electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields (0 Hz -
300 GHz). 
Frequency range Magnetic Current Whole body Localised Localised Power 
flux density average SAR SAR (head SAR density, 
density (mA/m2) (W/kg) and trunk) (limbs) S 
(mT) (rms) (W/kg) (W/kg) (W/m2) 
0 Hz 
>(M Hz 
MHz 
4 - 1000 Hz 
1000 Hz -100 kHz 
100 kHz-10 MHz 
10 MHz- 10 GHz 
IO-100GHz 40 
~ 
-
-
~ 
-
~ 
_„ — 
8 
8/f 
2 
#500 
f/500 
-
__ — 
~ 
-
-
-
0.08 
0.08 
„ — 
-
-
-
— 
2 
2 
_. -
-
--
-
--
4 
4 
— 10 
Noies 
1. /is the frequency in Hz. 
2. The basic restriction on the current density is intended to protect against acute 
exposure effects on central nervous system tissues in the head and trunk of the body 
and includes a safety factor 
3. Because of electrical inhomogeneity of the body, current densities should be averaged 
over a cross section of 1 cm2 perpendicular to the current direction. 
4. For frequencies up to 100 kHz, peak current density values can be obtained by 
multiplying the rms value by V2 (-1.414). For pulses of duration /p the equivalent 
frequency to apply in the basic restrictions should be calculated as/= l/(2/p). 
5 For frequencies up to 100 kHz and for pulsed magnetic fields, the maximum current 
density associated with the pulses can be calculated from the rise/fall times and the 
maximum rate of change of magnetic flux density. The induced current density can 
then be compared with the appropriate basic restriction. 
6. All SAR values are to be averaged over any 6-minute period. 
7. Localized SAR averaging mass is any 10 g of contiguous tissue; the maximum SAR so 
obtained should be the value used for the estimation of exposure. 
8. For pulses of duration tp the equivalent frequency to apply in the basic restrictions 
should be calculated as/= l/(2/p). Additionally, for pulsed exposures, in the frequency 
range 0.3 to 10 GHz and for localised exposure of the head, in order to limit and avoid 
auditory effects caused by thermoelastic expansion, an additional basic restriction is 
recommended. This is that the SA should not exceed 2mJ kg"1 averaged over 10 g of 
tissue. 
24 
ANNEX HI 
Reference Levels 
Reference levels of exposure are provided for the purpose of comparison with values 
of measured quantities. Respect of all recommended reference levels will ensure 
respect of basic restrictions. 
If the quantities of measured values are greater than the reference levels , it does not 
necessarily follow that the basic restrictions have been exceeded. In this case, an 
assessment should be made as to whether exposure levels are below the basic 
restrictions. 
flie reference levels for limiting exposure aie obtained from the basic restrictions for 
the condition o\' maximum coupling o\' the field to the exposed individual, thereby 
providing maximum protection. A summary of the reference levels is given in 'fables 2 
and 3. The reference levels are generally intended to be spatially averaged values over 
the dimension of the body of the exposed individual, but with the important proviso 
that the localised basic restrictions on exposure are not exceeded. 
In certain situations where the exposure is highly localised, such as with hand-held 
telephones and the human head, the use of reference levels is not appropriate. In such 
cases respect of the localised basic restriction should be assessed directly. 
25 
l'leId levels 
fable 2 Reference levels for electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields (0 11/. 
300 (ill/, unperturbed uns values) 
Frequency range 
0-1 Hz 
l-Xllz 
X 25 Hz 
0.025 -O.Xkll/. 
O.X 3 kHz 
3-. 150 kHz 
0 15-1 Mil/. 
l-IOMHz 
10 400 Mil/. 
400 -2000 Mil/. E-field 
strength 
(Vim) 
-
10,000 
10,000 
250/t" 
250/f 
X7 
X7 
S7/I"1 •" 
2X 
1.375 f1 ' H-tield 
strength 
(A/m) 
3.2 x 104 
3.2x10Vl° 
4,000/f 
4/f 
5 
5 
073/f 
073/f 
0.073 
0.0037 I"1 •" B-field 
(tff) 
4xl()4 
4xioVr' 
5,000/f 
5/f 
6 25 
6.25 
0»2/f 
03>2/f 
0.092 
0.0046 lq ' Equivalent plane 
wave power density 
SeM (W/m2) 
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
_? 
f/200 
2 300 (ill/. 61 O.K. 0.20 10 
Notes: 
1. /as indicated in the frequency range column. 
2. For frequencies between 100 kHz and 10 GHz, o'u,, E2, H\ and B2 are to 
averaged over any 6-minute period. 
3. For frequencies exceeding 10 GHz, 4S'cq, L\ H", and B~ are to be averaged over 
any OS//10>--minute period (/'in GHz). 
1 No F-lield value is provided for frequencies • I Hz, which are effectively static 
electiic fields For most people the annoying perception of surface electric 
charge.1; will not occur at field strengths less than 25 kV/m. Spark discharges 
causing stress or annoyance should be avoided. 
lor peak values, the following icfcrcnce levels apply lo the l\-licld strength (V/m), II-
lield strength (A/m) and the U-lield (p f): 
For frequencies up to 100 kHz, peak reference values are obtained by multiplying 
the corresponding rms values by v2 ( I 414) For pulses oi~ duration /,, the 
equivalent frequency to apply should be calculated as/-: 1/(2/,,). 
For frequencies between 100 kHz and 10 MHz peak reference values are obtained 
by multiplying the corresponding rms values by 
10" , where a - (0.665 log(f/105)+0.176), fin kHz 
- For frequencies between 10 MHz and 300 GHz peak reference values are obtained 
by multiplying the corresponding rms values by 32. 
Although little information is available on the relation between biological effects and 
peak values of pulsed fields, it is suggested that, for frequencies exceeding 10 MFIz, 
SCI| as averaged over the pulse width should not exceed 1000 times the reference levels 
or that field strengths should not exceed 32 times the fields strength reference levels. 
For frequencies between about 0.3 (il 1/ and several (il Iz and for localised exposure of 
26 
the head, in order to limit or avoid auditory effects caused by thermoelastic expansion, 
the specific absorption from pulses must be limited. In this frequency range, the 
threshold SA of 4-16 mJ kg'1 for producing this effect corresponds, for 30-ps pulses, 
to peak SAR values of 130-520 W kg"1 in the brain. Between 100 kHz and 10 MHz, 
peak values for the fields strengths are obtained by interpolation from the I 5-fold peak 
at 100 kHz to the 32-fold peak at 10 MHz. 
( 'on (act currents at id limb currents 
For frequencies up to 110 Mil/, additional reference levels are recommended to avoid 
hazards due to contact currents. The contact current reference levels are presented in 
laltle 3. The reference levels on contact current were set to account for the fact that 
the threshold contact currents that elicit biological responses in adult women and 
children are approximately two-thirds and one-half, respectively, of those for adult 
men 
Me 3: Reference levels for contact currents from conductive objects 
(fin kHz) 
Frequency range Maximum contact 
current (mA) 
0 Hz-2.5 kHz 0.5 
2.5 kHz- 100 kHz «.2 f 
lOOjdlz- I 10 MHz 20 
I oi the frequency range It) Ml 1/ to 1 10 Ml I/, a reference level of 15 mA in terms of 
current through any limb is recommended. This is intended to limit the localised SAR 
over any 6-minule period 
27 
ANNEX IV 
Exposure from sources with multiple frequencies 
In situations where simultaneous cxposuie to fields of dilfcrcnl frequencies occurs, the 
possibility thai these exposures will be additive in their effects must be considered. 
Calculations based on such additivity should be performed separately for each elfect; 
thus separate evaluations should be made for thermal and electrical stimulation elfects 
on the body 
Basic restrictions 
In the ease of simultaneous exposure to fields of different frequencies, the following 
criteria should be satisfied in terms of the basic restrictions. 
For electric stimulation, relevant for frequencies from 1 Hz up to 10 MHz, the induced 
current densities should be added according to: 
I OUI h . y -'• ! 
hoi thermal effects, relevant liom 100 kHz, specific energy absorption rales and power 
densities should be added accoidinu. to: 
IOC/I: t, . n 300(11 h Ç1 
£ SAR, , £ .S, < j 
i lOOkll: SA Ri. i lOCIIzSj, 
where 
J; is the current density at frequency i; 
Ji.,; is the current density basic restriction at frequency i as given in Table I; 
SARj is the SAR caused by exposure at frequency i; 
SARi, is the SAR basic restriction given in fable I; 
Si is the power density at frequency i, 
S|. is the power density basic restriction given in 'fable I. 
28 
Reference levels 
For application of the basic restrictions, the following criteria regarding reference 
levels of field strengths should be applied 
For induced current densities and electrical stimulation elfects, relevant up to 10 MHz, 
the following two requirements-should be applied to the field levels: 
IMIlz ., lOUUz „ 
£ /'" i £ F" < I 
i It I: h Li i -IMIlz Cl 
and 
I mi h lOU/lz . £ "\ i £ Ilj<i 
i iiiz IIi.j i mokiizb 
where 
i;, is Ihe electric field strength at frequency i, 
F| , is the electric field strength reference level from 'fable 2; 
11, is the magnetic field strength at frequency j; 
I \\,, is the magnetic field strength reference level from 'fable 2, 
a is K7 V/m and b is 5 A/ni ( (>.25 u'f). 
Compared to the K'NIRF guidelines which deal with both occupational and general 
public exposure, cutoff points in the summations correspond to exposure conditions 
for members of the public. 
The use of the constant values (a and b) above I MHz for the electric field and above 
150 kHz for Ihe magnetic field is due to the fact that the summation is based on 
induced current densities, and should not be mixed with thermal elTect circumstances. 
The latter forms the basis for F| , anil I h. j above I MHz and 150 kHz respectively, 
found in 'fable 2. 
1 International Commission on Non-loni/.ing Radiation Protection. Guidelines for Limiting Exposure 
lo Time-Varying Flcclrie. Magnetic, and Hlectiomagnetic Fields (up to 300 GHz). Health PUys., in 
press 
29 
Foi iheimal H feci ( iieuinslaixes, lelevanl liom 100 kHz, the following, two 
icquiicincnls should be applied lo the field levels 
I MIL- ,, Mm il h ., z (':/' Z(ff^ 
i I Ml h LLL.i I lOOkll: 
and 
150kHz TT SOOGIIz ,. Z *IrfA' 
/ lookiiz (1 j imiiz 11 Lj 
where 
\\, is the eleetiic field strength at frequency i, 
I i , is the eleiliic field lefeience level from fable ?.. 
11, is the magnetic field slienglh at frequency _j; 
I h , is the magnetic field refeience level derived from fables 2, 
c isS//!"1-' Win and d 0 7î/f A/ni 
Again, compared to the ICKIKF guidelines some cutolf points have been adjusted for 
public exposure only. 
For limb current and contact current, respectively, the following requirements should 
be applied: 
iw/wn z 
A--IDA///.-A. 
\ ll.M J ll()A///r 
< 
where 
h is the limb euneii! component at licqueiicy k, 
h i is the releience level loi limb current, IS inA, 
l„ is the contact cm rent component at licqucncy n, 
l,Mis the refeience level for contact current at frequency n (see 'fable >). 
The above summation formulae assume worst-case phase conditions among the fields 
from the multiple sources. As a result, typical exposure situations may in practice result 
in less restrictive exposure levels than indicated by the above formulae for the 
reference levels. 

3o 
ISSN 0254-1475 
COM(98) 268 final 
DOCUMENTS 
EN 05 15 12 14 
Catalogue number : CB-CO-98-298-EN-C 
ISBN 92-78-35921-1 
Office for Official Publications of the European Communities 
L-2985 Luxembourg