A new correspondence in Bioelectromagnetics argues that current low-frequency EMF safety limits are structurally flawed: they are based on root-mean-square (RMS) averages, but nerve and muscle stimulation responds to instantaneous peak values. Pulsed fields from devices like retail security deactivators can comply with today's limits while still triggering biological excitation.
"Current low-frequency EMF exposure limits are based on RMS values. However, the hazard at low frequencies, neural and muscular stimulation is driven by instantaneous peak values."
"Pulsed or bursty fields—such as those emitted by certain deactivators used in electronic article surveillance—may comply with RMS-based limits despite containing peaks capable of exceeding physiological thresholds."
"Reformulating both basic restrictions and reference levels in terms of peak values would align exposure limits with neurophysiological mechanisms and provide clearer guidance for ensuring safety."
Bioelectromagnetics Journal Level 1ⓘ
