What does the law say about exposure to EMFs at work?

There is no specific law covering workplace exposure to EMFs, but the National Radiological Protection Board produces guidelines (currently under review) and the Health and Safety Executive expects employers to follow these guidelines.

A European Directive on EMFs is being negotiated, but it will be several years before it comes into effect in the UK. If the Directive does become law, it would mean employers have to:

• assess and measure workers’ exposure to EMFs;
• make sure that exposure is kept below international guidelines;
• put up warning signs; and
• provide workers with appropriate training and information.

However, in practice, other general health and safety regulations in the UK already impose these duties on employers.

The National Radiological Protection Board produces guidelines on occupational exposure to EMFs, and although these are not law the Health and Safety Executive expects employers to follow these guidelines.