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Project title

Public exposure to non-ionising radiation from major electricity infrastructure in Ireland

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University College Dublin (UCD)

Lead Applicant

Anna M�lter

Project Abstract

Non-ionising radiation arises from major electricity infrastructure, due to extremely low frequency (1-300Hz) electromagnetic fields (ELF EMF) emitted from high-voltage powerlines, transformer- and sub-stations. The International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) published guidelines in 2010, which recommend a reference level of 200µT at 50 Hz for electromagnetic field exposure of the general public. Although the long-term average exposure to ELF EMF in residences is far lower than this reference level, health effects of long-term exposure to ELF EMF have been a concern since the late 1970s. In particular, potential associations with childhood cancer and with neurodegenerative diseases have been a focus of research. Epidemiological studies have consistently found an increased risk of childhood leukaemia associated with daily average ELF EMF exposures >0.3- 0.4 µT. However, a causal relationship between ELF EMF and childhood leukaemia has not been established, as experimental studies provide little support for the observed association and the underlying biological mechanism remains unclear. In 1999, the European Commission (EC) recommended limiting public exposure to ELF EMF; however, since then no formal EC Directive on ELF EMF exposure has been introduced and it is open to European Union member countries how to implement the 1999 recommendations. In 2019, the EPA was assigned responsibilities for public exposure to non-ionising radiation under the Radiological Protection Act 1991 (Non-Ionising Radiation) Order 2019 (SI No. 190 of 2019). The aim of this project is to review published literature on public exposure to non-ionising radiation from major electricity infrastructure. This includes reviewing publications on exposure, health effects, current policies in European countries, and public engagement. Specific objectives are: (1) a systematic review of studies on ELF EMF exposure of the population from major electricity infrastructures (alternating current, direct current, and hybrid systems), including monitoring and modelling of field strength and exposure; (2) an umbrella review of epidemiological studies on health risks associated with exposure to ELF EMF at the levels encountered at major electricity infrastructure identified in objective 1; (3) a state-of-the-art review of current policies in European countries and best practices to control public exposure to ELF EMF; (4) a state-of-the art review of science communication and public engagement strategies for ELF EMF exposure risks. The findings from these objectives will allow the provision of best evidence-based recommendations to the EPA. Overall, this project will develop expertise and build research capacity on non-ionising radiation exposure in Ireland.

Grant Approved

�99,952.84

Research Hub

Healthy Environment

Research Theme

n/a

Start Date

01/03/2022

Initial Projected Completion Date

28/02/2023