Lab 6 - RF EMF Surveys

Introduction

Electric and magnetic fields (EMF) are a broad range of energy waves that are part of the electromagnetic spectrum. This spectrum includes other waveform such as radiowaves, x-rays, microwaves and infrared rays. EMF is present where ever electricity is generated and common areas are electrical appliances, household wiring, industrial equipment and power lines.

Radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic radiation (EMR) describes the transfer of energy by radio waves. RF EMR lies in the frequency range between 3 kilohertz (kHz) to 300 gigahertz (GHz). RF EMR is non-ionising radiation, meaning that it has insufficient energy to break chemical bonds or remove electrons (ionisation).

Objective:

Conduct an internal EMF survey within select areas of a building.

Procedures:

1. Review RF EMF Detector setup settings according to Manufacturer's Specifications.
2. Conduct a EMF survey of the select areas around the atrium.
3. Document date, time, location, potential sources of radiation.
4. Document distance from measurement location to suspected source of EMF and identify that source.

Resources:

• Understanding Safety Code 6: Health Canada's radiofrequency exposure guidelines
• Source:https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/health-risks-safety/radiation/occupational-exposure-regulations/safety-code-6-radiofrequency-exposure-guidelines.html

• MOL Exposure Limits
• Source:https://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pubs/radiation/gl_radio_3.php

Results:

Provide a table listing the values, locations and sources of electromagnetic radiation. State approximated frequencies associated with sources identified in your sampling location.

Discussions:

Based on Health Canada's Safety Code 6, what is Health Canada's current view with regards to health effects caused by over exposure to EMF radiation? Are all the sources measured within the atrium fall between the acceptable range set out in the Safety Code 6 ?

Results:

Four different equipment were identified from different sampling locations. Each equipment was selected as a source of EMF radiation. Three reading were taken at an interval of 20 seconds from every source.

The table below shows readings from every identified EMF radiation source at different locations.

Location	Equipment	Reading 1	Reading 2	Reading 3	Average (EMF)
Room 104	EPSON Projector	9.6	9.7	9.4	9.6
Main corridor	Vending machine	5.1	5.6	6.1	5.6
Room 101	Door lock	2.1	2.4	1.8	2.1
Sitting hall	Speaker	2.3	2.5	2.9	2.6

Discussion: From, the above readings generated, give a detailed discussion. Here is where I need help.

Thank you