Health effects of extremely low frequency (50 and 60 Hertz) electric and magnetic fields

Abstract

The concern over the health effects of extremely low frequency, 50-60 Hz, electric and magnetic fields is addressed. The voltages and currents generated within the human body are detailed. The values of directly applied voltages and currents that occur when a person comes into contact with energized conductors that are hazardous to humans are compared to the nonhazardous induced voltages and currents. An overview of the animal, cell, and human research and of epidemiological studies is presented. The positions expounded by the various concerned groups are listed, and the standards and values that have been developed by consensus groups are discussed.<>