Though no definitive studies have proven direct causal links between EMFs and health effects, many studies in this country and in Sweden have linked EMF exposures to childhood Leukemia and soft-tissue cancers. Further epidemiological studies have suggested that other subtle health effects may be caused or exacerbated by chronic exposure to even very low levels of EMFs.

The common recommendation from environmental engineers, health practitioners, baubiologists, and healthy building researchers is, therefore, that prudent avoidance would suggest not being exposed to EMF levels above 1 mG for any prolonged period oftime during the course of daily activity.

Red flag areas for EMFs are:

• Computer monitors and drives, printers, copy machines - stay as far away as practical (2 to 3 feet);
• Microwave ovens (which also often leak microwave radiation. Be aware that the fields from microwave ovens are just as strong on the back side of the kitchen wall as in front of the unit - and that the EMFs are there even when the oven is off and plugged in.) - stay at least 4 feet away while operating, 2 feet away while off, but plugged in;
• Refrigerators - stay 3 feet away while running;
• TV sets - stay 4 to 6 feet away while turned on, 2 feet away while only plugged in;
• Phone answering machines and faxes - stay 3 feet away;
• Any transformer/plugs for low voltage devices - stay 4 feet away;
• Lamps and extension cords - keep all electrical devices at least 3 feet from seat or bed;
• Electric clocks, clock radios, clocks on appliances or electronic devices, VCRs, ovens, etc. - stay at least 6 to 8 feet away or, better yet disconnect them and use battery operated clocks instead.

Electrical (E) Fields.

The following steps are recommended by baubiologists for reducing or eliminating E fields from AC electrical installations:

• Step 1) Source control or removal. Eliminate ungrounded electric lights, extension cords and wires from bed site. Use only shielded, grounded wires and cables. Make sure building electrical system is properly grounded and that no electrical current is being carried by plumbing pipes. Generally reduce electrical devices in bedroom. If the E field emitting source is a wiring system in walls or ceilings, step 2 or 3 must be taken.
• Step 2) Disconnection from the power grid. Identify the circuit(s) creating the E field by switching off the circuits at the breaker box and instrument-measuring at the bed site. Once identified, the circuit can be fitted with a manual or automatic switch to shut off the whole circuit during sleeping times. Automatic "demand" switches require that any current used for clocks, alarms, night lights, transformers, refrigerators, televisions, etc. be disconnected. The Germans use a "demand switch", but a simple GFCI switch or other means of cutting off all hot and neutral power potential near the bed will work. Technically flawless electrical circuits eliminate E fields (but are expensive, considering the level of most common workmanship).
• Step 3) Electrical shielding is the other way to eliminate E fields. This should be the last resort, but is sometimes the only way. The E field can be grounded out by electrically conductive materials. For example, when E fields emanate from walls, ceilings and floors, they can be shielded by applying electrically conductive paints or foil wallpaper to the emitting areas. Wires and cables can be shielded by running inside metallic conduit or woven metal coverings.

© 2007 Green Home, Inc.