Supporting the development of national policies on electromagnetic fields

Electromagnetic fields (EMF) occur in nature and have always been present on earth. However, during the 20th century, environmental exposure to man-made sources of EMF steadily increased due to electricity demand, ever-advancing wireless technologies and changes in work practices and social behaviour. Everyone is exposed to a complex mix of electric and magnetic fields at many different frequencies, at home and at work, and concern continues to grow over possible health effects from overexposure.

WHO established the International Electromagnetic Fields Project in 1996 to assess the scientific evidence of possible adverse health effects from electromagnetic fields and develop international standards to limit exposure. As part of the project, WHO conducts multi-disciplinary research and risk assessments of various EMF-emitting technologies.

WHO develops public information materials and promotes dialogue among scientists, governments, industry and the public to raise the level of understanding about potential adverse health risks of electromagnetic fields. The Organization has also compiled a database which includes worldwide standards for countries who have legislation on exposure to electromagnetic fields.