EMF News.
Utility Worker Exposure Survey

Workday mean magnetic field exposures were generally higher for job categories related to utility operations than for more general occupations (with highest exposure for substation operators/inspectors and electricians), but the variation in exposures was also very substantial. Individuals in utility-specific job classifications received at least half of their total exposure while on the job, which means that they also had significant nonwork contributions to their total magnetic field exposures. This study is the first to measure worker exposure to magnetic fields on a large scale.

The data confirm conclusions of smaller studies concerning the relationship between job classifications, the degree of magnetic field exposure, and the exposure levels associated with various electric utility job classifications. Over the next few years, data of this type will be organized into a database characterizing the range of EMF environments and exposure sources under the Department of Energy's contribution to the federal RAPID program. The results will be used to develop a systematic approach to addressing epidemiologic research, environmental concerns, and mitigation technology as understanding of EMF exposures and their possible biological consequences evolves.