Adverse Effect of Electromagnetic Fields from Power Transmission Lines ( A Review )

31 Abstract—The electric and magnetic fields are originated by the alternating currents in the power transmission lines and known as electromagnetic fields (EMFs). The voltage is responsible for generating the electric field and the magnetic field produces by the current that flows in the transmission lines. Many epidemiologic studies in last decades focus on the effect of the continuous and occupational exposure to the electromagnetic fields on the human health conditions. It tries to reveal the link between the electromagnetic field and biological effects that effect on the population in the vicinity of the power transmission lines. Therefore, the electricity utilities exert more efforts to examine the quantity of the electric and magnetic fields in order to avoid the adverse effect and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) problems with the surrounding environments of the power transmission lines. Determination of the safe exposure levels of the power frequency electromagnetic fields on the workers and the general public takes a rising interest over the years. In our daily life, various electrical and electronic apparatus was used and generate new EMC problems. Hence, recently the impact of non-ionizing radiation on the living cells, tissues, live animals including human beings has much interest. This paper provides a review of the limits of the electric and magnetic fields risk values that have the adverse effect on the human health. Unclear indication between the power frequency transmission lines and some diseases that may infect people who live in the vicinity of power lines is concluded in this paper.