Vol. 5, 2020

Microwave, Laser, RF and UV radiations

EXPOSURE AND RISK ASSESSMENT CONNECTED TO THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF WORKERS IN THE PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY

M. Israel, P. Ivanova, Ts. Shalamanova, M. Ivanova, V. Zaryabova

Pages: 51-54

DOI: 10.37392/RapProc.2020.12

The aim of the study is to perform exposure and risk assessment of electromagnetic fields (EMF) at workplaces connected with electricity production according to the requirements of Directive 2013/35/EU. The study covers the following sets of workplaces: (1) Workplaces in power distribution systems (indoor and outdoor distribution systems); (2) Workplaces with metalworking machines: lathes, mills, electric welding. Measurements are made using a frequency non-selective method, based on: “Non-binding guide to good practice for implementing Directive 2013/35/EU Electromagnetic Fields Vol. 1 - Practical guide”. Exposure and risk assessment have been performed by comparing the measured values with action values (ALs) and the exposure limit values (ELVs) according to the requirements of Directive 2013/35/EU, as well as with the reference values adopted by the Council Recommendation 1999/519/EC for persons at “specific risk”. The results of the exposure and risk assessment show the following: Electric field strength for the power frequency field (50 Hz) does not exceed the high ALs for non-thermal effects; low ALs are not exceeded except for single points in outdoor high voltage substations. In cases where the low ALs for non-thermal effects are exceeded, the reference levels according to Recommendation 1999/519/EC are also exceeded. There are no measured values of the field strength above the reference levels according to Council Recommendation 1999/519/EC at the remaining workplaces. The results show compliance with the ELVs with respect to the health and sensory effects. Magnetic flux density values of power frequency fields do not exceed the ALs for non-thermal effects. Measured values also show the compliance with the ELVs for health and sensory effects. The magnetic flux densities do not exceed the reference levels according to Council Recommendation 1999/519/EC. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that no risk can be expected for the workers’ health from the EMFs exposure except for those defined as persons at a specific risk. For them, appropriate recommendations for the employer have been proposed for health and safety practices at work.
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