Introduction/ framework/ objectives:

Electromagnetic fields are already very extensively developed in the scientific literature, however, doing so through a generalist approach and/ or highlighting the possible consequences for human health. There are few documents that, under this theme, describe specific protection measures. The authors conducted a research with the objective of elaborating a synthesis what was written about this subtheme.

Methodology:

This is a Scoping Review, initiated at September 2019, in the databases “CINALH plus with full text, Medline with full text, Cochrane Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Methodology Register, Nursing and Allied Health Collection: Comprehensive, MedicLatina, Academic Search Ultimate, Web of Science, SCOPUS and RCAAP”.

Content:

Many activities create these fields. In most workplaces exposure is discrete and there is no relevant risk. In all other cases, however, the risk dissipates with distance from the source. In addition, as most of these situations originate from an electrical appliance, when it is switched off, the problem no longer exists. Particularly exposed individuals may be pregnant women and individuals with active medical devices (cardiac stimulators, defibrillators, cochlear and brain stem implants, neurostimulators, drug infusion pumps and retinal coders).

In terms of collective protection measures, the shielding/ insulation with metal, ceramic, plastic or glass plate or mesh can be highlighted;as well as protection with light curtains; reading apparatus and pressure sensitive mats; restriction of access by guards, barriers, signs, magnetic field signaling/ ionizing radiation, especially to individuals with active or metallic medical implants; prohibition of conductive objects; appoint the person responsible for safety management; training about body position during work and limitation of movements to attenuate induction of electric fields. While it is not difficult to shield electric fields, mitigating the effects of magnetic fields is more complicated.

Furthermore, it is generally not possible to use effective Personal Protective Equipment uniformly: if it protects a range of frequencies, it will hardly protect for others. Examples include insulation footwear (thick rubber sole, non-steel); suitable gloves in isolation/ driving, glasses and full suit.

Conclusions:

Given the omnipresence of the electromagnetic fields (although generally at intensities of low concern), it would be relevant for occupational health practitioners to have some notions of how to approach the subtheme.

In addition, it would be important for some teams to have the opportunity to investigate in this context, improve customer service and, by publishing their data, contribute to a better understanding of the national reality and somehow evolve scientific knowledge in this area.

        · resumo em Português     · texto em Português     · Português ( pdf )