Non-ionising
radiation
This radiation can be divided into
optical radiation and electromagnetic fields.
Optical radiation includes ultraviolet, visible and infrared rays
while electromagnetic fields are created by things like microwaves,
radio frequencies and extremely low frequencies.
Electromagnetic fields arise from the Earth's magnetic field,
electricity supplies, TV and radio signals and mobile phone use.
Such radiation will not cause ionising effects but does have the
potential to cause photochemical effects (such as ultra-violet
induced sunburn), thermal (heating) effects and induced
currents.
Electric fields exist wherever an electrical charge is present,
even if a current is not flowing. Magnetic fields, in contrast,
result from the movement of electrical charges and so will be
produced only when a current flows. Electricity transmission and
equipment are a significant cause of the man-made background of
electric and magnetic fields in the environment and in our homes
although the strength of these fields rapidly decrease with
distance.
For more information on mobile phones and electricity transmission
please see the sections below; alternatively click on useful
links.
Mobile Phones
Today it is hard to think of the word "radiation"
without referring to the concerns expressed about radiation from
mobile phones and base stations.
The Independent Expert Group on Mobile Phones recently reported to
the Government on health issues. The Group concluded that current
evidence does not suggest the use of mobile phone technology puts
the general health of the population at risk.
The report however, recommends caution with regard to subtle
biological effects of phone use and the insensitive siting of base
stations. Overall a precautionary approach was recommended until
better scientific evidence is available.
You can read the full report of the
Independent Expert Group of Mobile Phones (The
Stewart Report) on the
IEGMP
website.
Electricity Transmission
Electric and magnetic fields are present whenever
electricity is used, such as electrical appliances, wiring in our
homes, power lines and electricity substations. The strength of
electric and magnetic fields fall rapidly with distance and typical
exposure to these fields is low. The
Health
Protection Agency has guidelines for exposure.