Electromagnetic fields (EMF) monitoring programme
What are Electromagnetic Fields (EMF)?
Electromagnetic fields are invisible forces created by natural sources like the Earth’s magnetic field and lightning. They’re also produced by human-made sources like mobile phone towers, radio and TV transmitters, and power lines. These fields are characterised by their frequency, measured in Hertz. Static EMF have a frequency of 0 Hz. Extremely Low Frequency EMF range between around 1 Hz and 3000 Hz (3 kilo Hertz (kHz)). Radiofrequency EMF range between around 3 kHz and 300 billion hertz (300 giga Hz (GHz)).
Why is the EPA monitoring EMF?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) checks EMF levels in public places to help advise the government and the public. This is part of its legal duties under Irish law (S.I. 190 of 2019). The aim is to understand what levels of EMF people are typically exposed to in everyday life.
What does the Monitoring Programme do?
The EPA’s monitoring programme looks at EMF exposure in public areas. It started by measuring radiofrequency (RF) EMF from telecommunication equipment, such as mobile phone masts. More recently it has also included static and extremely low frequency (ELF) EMF from sources like high-voltage power lines and cables.
What have we found so far?
So far, the EPA has found that EMF levels from telecoms and electricity networks do not pose a risk to public health.
What’s included in the programme?
- Radiofrequency (RF) EMF Monitoring (2021-2022): Measured in busy public areas. See results on this link.
- Static and ELF EMF Monitoring (2023-2024): Focused on high-voltage power infrastructure. See results on this link.
