An integrated job exposure matrix for electrical exposures of utility workers.

Electric utility workers may be exposed to any combination of magnetic fields, electric fields, nuisance shocks (from spark discharges and continuous currents), imperceptible contact currents, and electrical injuries. Collectively these exposures are referred to as EMF Factors. Previous occupational exposure assessments have mainly characterized the magnetic field, with less attention to the electric field.

Recent advances in research relevant to electric and magnetic field exposure guidelines.

Limits on exposures to extremely low-frequency electric fields, magnetic fields and contact currents, designated as voluntary guidelines or standards by several organizations worldwide, are specified so as to minimize the possibility of neural stimulation. The limits, which we refer to as guidelines, derive from "basic restrictions" either on electric fields or current density within tissue, or on avoidance of annoying or startling interactions that may be experienced with spark discharge or contact current. Further, the guidelines specify more conservative permissible doses and exposure levels for the general public than for exposures in controlled environments, which most typically involve occupational settings.