Science reviews

# 129 2004

U.K. National Radiological Protection Board

Review of the Scientific Evidence for Limiting Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (0-300 GHz)

“In the view of the NRPB, the epidemiological evidence that time-weighted average exposure to power frequency magnetic fields above 0.4 µ T [4 mG] is associated with a small absolute raised risk of leukaemia in children is, at present, an observation for which there is no sound scientific explanation. There is no clear evidence of a carcinogenic effect of ELF EMFs in adults and no plausible biological explanation of the association can be obtained from experiments with animals or from cellular and molecular studies.” [p. 15]

# 128 2004

Institution of Electrical Engineers
Policy Advisory Group on the Biological Effects of Low Level
Electromagnetic Fields

The Possible Harmful Biological Effects of Low Level Electromagnetic Fields of Frequencies up to 300 GHz – IEE Position Statement – May 2004

“The Institution of Electrical Engineers Policy Advisory Group on the Biological Effects of low-level Electromagnetic Fields (the “Group”) has concluded that the balance of scientific evidence does not indicate that harmful effects occur in humans due to low-level electromagnetic field exposure. This conclusion is the same as that reached in its previous position statements, the last being in May 2002 and has not been changed by the peer-reviewed literature of the past two years.” [p.1]

# 127 2004

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists

TLVs and BEIs

“At this time, there is insufficient information on human responses and possible health effects of magnetic fields in the frequency range of 1 Hz to 30 kHz to permit the establishment of a TLV for time-weighted average exposures.” [p. 142]

# 126 2004

Connecticut Department of Public Health
Division of Environmental Epidemiology & Occupational Health

Electromagnetic Fields (EMF): Health Concerns

“Despite extensive research over the past 20 years, the health risk caused by EMF exposure remains an open question. Two national research organizations have looked at the studies and have concluded that there is not strong evidence suggesting that EMF exposures pose a health risk. However, some studies have shown a weak link between household EMF exposure and a small increased risk of childhood leukemia at average exposures above 3 mG. For cancers other than childhood leukemia, none of the studies provide evidence of an association.” [p. 2]

# 125 2003

Florida Department of Environmental Protection

2003 Annual Report on EMF Research

“Over the last six years a number of scientific and governmental organizations have reviewed EMF health effects research. … The conclusion of the reviewing scientific committees is that there is no consistent, significant link between cancer and power line EMFs.” [pp. 2-3]

# 124 2003

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency

The Controversy Over Electromagnetic Fields and Possible Adverse Health Effects

“On balance, the scientific evidence does not indicate that exposure to 50 Hz EMFs found around the home, the office or near power lines is a hazard to human health.” [p. 4]

# 123 2003

International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection

Exposure to Static and Low Frequency Electromagnetic Fields, Biological Effects and Health Consequences (0-100 kHz)

“In the absence of evidence from cellular or animal studies, and given the methodological uncertainties and in many cases inconsistencies of the existing epidemiological literature, there is no chronic disease outcome for which an aetiological relation to EMF exposure can be regarded as established.” [p. 479]

# 122 2003

Health Council of the Netherlands
Electromagnetic Fields Committee

Electromagnetic Fields: Annual Update 2003

“What are the ramifications of this [IARC] conclusion? Firstly, the Committee emphasizes that this does not mean that ELF magnetic fields are actually carcinogenic, simply that they might be. … The Committee, like the IARC itself, points out that there is no evidence to support the existence of a causal relationship here. Nor has research yet uncovered any evidence that a causal relationship might exist.” [pp. 75-76]

# 121 2003

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists

TLVs and BEIs

“At this time, there is insufficient information on human responses and possible health effects of magnetic fields in the frequency range of 1 Hz to 30 kHz to permit the establishment of a TLV for the time-weighted average exposures.” [p. 144]

# 120 2003

Australian Radiation Advisory Committee (State of Victoria)

Annual Report of the Radiation Advisory Committee for the year ending September 2003

“The additional evidence concerning health effects of electromagnetic fields reviewed by the Committee during the past year has not been sufficiently compelling to alter the Committee’s position concerning the issue. That is that, overall, there is insufficient evidence to come to a firm conclusion regarding possible health effects from exposure to power frequency electric and magnetic fields.” [p. 20]

# 119 2002

U.S. National Institutes of Health
U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences EMF

Questions & Answers: Electric and Magnetic Fields Associated with the Use of Electric Power

“Over the past 25 years, research has addressed the question of whether exposure to power-frequency EMF might adversely affect human health. For most health outcomes, there is no evidence that EMF exposures have adverse effects. There is some evidence from epidemiology studies that exposure to power-frequency EMF is associated with an increased risk for childhood leukemia. This association is difficult to interpret in the absence of reproducible laboratory evidence or a scientific explanation that links magnetic fields with childhood leukemia.” [p. 57]

# 118 2002

Institution of Electrical Engineers
Policy Advisory Group on the Biological Effects of Low Level Electromagnetic Fields

The Possible Harmful Biological Effects of Low Level Electromagnetic Fields of Frequencies up to 300 GHz

“The Institution of Electrical Engineers Policy Advisory Group on the Biological Effects of Low Level Electromagnetic Fields has concluded that there is still no convincing scientific evidence that shows harmful effects of low-level electromagnetic fields on humans.” [p.1]

# 117 2002

Minnesota State Interagency Working Group on EMF Issues

A White Paper On Electric and Magnetic Field (EMF) Policy and Mitigation Options

“The Minnesota Department of Health concludes that the current body of evidence is insufficient to establish a cause and effect relationship between EMF and adverse health effects.” [p. 36]

# 116 2002

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency

Electricity and Health

“The scientific evidence does not firmly establish that exposure to 50 Hz electric and magnetic fields found around the home, the office or near power lines is a hazard to human health. In view of the epidemiological studies, however, the possibility remains that intense and prolonged exposures to magnetic fields may increase the risk of leukaemia in children. If exposure to higher-than-normal magnetic fields does actually cause leukaemia at the level indicated in the Doll report, then, on average, there would be one extra case in Australia every two years. The evidence does not allow health authorities to decide whether there is a specific magnetic field level above which continuous exposure is dangerous or compromises human health.” [p. 4]

# 115 2002

Italy - Ministries of Environment, Health & Telecommunications International Evaluation Committee to Investigate the Health Risks of Exposure to Electric, Magnetic and Electromagnetic Fields

Statement of the International Evaluation Committee

“Reviews of current scientific information have all indicated that, while there are gaps in knowledge requiring further research before better health risk assessments can be made, there have not been any adverse health consequences confirmed from EMF exposures below the ICNIRP (1998) guideline limits.” [p. 2]

# 114 2002

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists

TLVs and BEIs

“At this time, there is insufficient information on human responses and possible health effects of magnetic fields in the frequency range of 1 Hz to 30 kHz to permit the establishment of a TLV for time-weighted average exposures.” [p. 144]

# 113 2002

Institution of Electrical Engineers (IEE)
Policy Advisory Group on the Biological Effects of Low Level
Electromagnetic Fields

The Possible Harmful Biological Effects of Low Level Electromagnetic Fields of Frequencies up to 300 GHz

“The Institution of Electrical Engineers Policy Advisory Group on the Biological Effects of Low Level Electromagnetic Fields has concluded that there is still no convincing scientific evidence that shows harmful effects of low-level electromagnetic fields on humans.” [p.1]

# 112 2002

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency
(ARPANSA)

Electricity and Health

“The scientific evidence does not firmly establish that exposure to 50 Hz electric and magnetic fields found around the home, the office or near power lines is a hazard to human health. In view of the epidemiological studies, however, the possibility remains that intense and prolonged exposures to magnetic fields may increase the risk of leukaemia in children. If exposure to higher-than-normal magnetic fields does actually cause leukaemia at the level indicated in the Doll report, then, on average, there would be one extra case in Australia every two years. The evidence does not allow health authorities to decide whether there is a specific magnetic field level above which continuous exposure is dangerous or compromises human health.” [p. 4]

# 111 2002

California Department of Health Services (CDHS)
California EMF Program

An Evaluation of the Possible Risks from Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMFs) from Power Lines, Internal Wiring, Electrical Occupations and Appliances (Fourth and Final Draft)

“To one degree or another all three of the DHS scientists are inclined to believe that EMFs can cause some degree of increased risk of childhood leukemia, adult brain cancer, Lou Gehrig’s Disease, and miscarriage. They strongly believe that EMFs do not increase the risk of birth defects, or low birth weight. They strongly believe that EMFs are not universal carcinogens, since there are a number of cancer types that are not associated with EMF exposure. To one degree or another they are inclined to believe that EMFs do not cause an increased risk of breast cancer heart disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, Depression, or symptoms attributed by some to a sensitivity to EMFs. However, all three scientists had judgments that were close to the dividing line between believing and not believing that EMFs cause some degree of increased risk of suicide, or for adult leukemia, two of the scientists are close to the dividing line between believing or not believing and one was prone to believe that EMFs cause some degree of increased risk.” [p. 3]

# 110 2001

Florida Department of Environmental Protection

2001 Annual Report on EMF Research

“We seem to be approaching a time when some aspects of EMF exposure may be deemed a slight risk, but we are still lacking knowledge of EMF impact mechanisms and adequate scientific proof to allow a valid estimate of risk to the public and the knowledge to set a regulatory standard to manage the risk.” [p. 5]

# 109 2001

World Health Organization (WHO)

Electromagnetic Fields and Public Health: Extremely low frequency fields and cancer

“There is no consistent evidence that exposure to ELF fields experienced in our living environment causes direct damage to biological molecules, including DNA. Since it seems unlikely that ELF fields could initiate cancer, a large number of investigations have been conducted to determine if ELF exposure can influence cancer promotion or co-promotion. Results from animal studies conducted so far suggest that ELF fields do not initiate or promote cancer. However, two recent pooled analyses of epidemiological studies provide insight into the epidemiological evidence that played a pivotal role in the IARC evaluation. These studies suggest that, in a population exposed to average magnetic fields in excess of 0.3 to 0.4 µT, twice as many children might develop leukaemia compared to a population with lower exposures. In spite of the large number data base, some uncertainty remains as to whether magnetic field exposure or some other factor(s) might have accounted for the increased leukaemia incidence.” [p. 3]

# 108 2001

International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) Standing Committee on Epidemiology

Review of the Epidemiologic Literature on EMF and Health

“In the absence of experimental evidence and given the methodological uncertainties in the epidemiologic literature, there is no chronic disease for which an etiological relation to EMF can be regarded as established. … Among all the outcomes evaluated in epidemiologic studies of EMF, childhood leukemia in relation to postnatal exposures above 0.4 µT is the one for which there is most evidence of an association. … On the basis of epidemiologic findings, evidence shows an association of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with occupational EMF exposure although confounding is a potential explanation. Breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, and suicide, and depression remain unresolved.” [p. 911]

# 107 2001

U.K. National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB)
Advisory Group on Non-Ionizing Radiation (AGNIR)

ELF Electromagnetic Fields and Neurodegenerative Disease

“There is no good ground for thinking that exposure to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields can cause Parkinson’s disease and only very weak evidence to suggest that it could cause Alzheimer’s disease.” [p. 21]

# 106 2001

European Commission
Directorate-General Health and Consumer Protection Scientific Committee on Toxicity, Ecotoxicity and the Environment (CSTEE)

Opinion on Possible Effects of Electromagnetic Fields (EMF), Radiofrequency Fields (RF) and Microwave Radiation on Human Health

“Combined analysis of the epidemiological studies on the association between exposures to ELF and childhood leukaemia have strengthened the evidence of an association. However, given some inconsistencies in exposure measurements and the absence of other criteria commonly used in assessing causality (particularly a plausible explanation of underlying biological mechanisms, see above), the association does not meet adequate criteria for being causal. Thus, the overall evidence for 50/60 Hz magnetic fields to produce childhood leukaemia must be regarded as being limited. … There is no convincing suggestion of any other carcinogenic effect of ELF on either children or adults.” [p. 10]

# 105 2001

German Commission on Radiological Protection (SSK) Commission on Radiological Protection

Limit values and precautionary measures to protect the public
against electromagnetic fields

“Since 1998, various results of studies involving animal experiments looking at a possible carcinogenic effect of low-frequency fields have been published. These results are mostly negative and tend to argue against the existence of a risk. … The link found in the epidemiological studies with the occurrence of leukaemia in children is insufficient with respect to the lack of evidence of carcinogenic effects in adults or a plausible explanation of the experiments carried out on animals and isolated cells, to warrant the unequivocal conclusion that the fields in question cause leukaemia in children.” [Pt. 3.2.1]

# 104 2001

International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans

Non-Ionizing Radiation, Part 1: Static and Extremely Low-Frequency (ELF) Electric and Magnetic Fields

“There is limited evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of extremely low frequency magnetic fields in relation to childhood leukaemia. There is inadequate evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields in relation to all other cancers. There is inadequate evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of static electric or magnetic fields and extremely low-frequency electric fields. There is inadequate evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields. No data relevant to the carcinogenicity of static electric or magnetic fields and extremely low-frequency electric fields in experimental animals were available. Extremely low-frequency magnetic fields are possible carcinogens to humans (Group 2B). Static electric and magnetic fields are extremely low-frequency electric fields are not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity to humans (Group 3).” [p. 338]

# 103 2001

Health Council of the Netherlands
Electromagnetic Fields Committee

Electromagnetic Fields: Annual Update 2001

“[R]ecent meta-analysis show a consistent association between relatively high measured or calculated magnetic field strengths and an increased risk of childhood leukaemia. However, from an epidemiological point of view, an association with a relative risk of smaller than 2 is to be considered as weak. Furthermore, the committee does not think that either 0.3 µT or 0.4 µT should be regarded as a definite threshold field strength, above which the risk is suddenly increased. … The committee would emphasize that there is no known mechanism that could account for the association referred to above. Because the association is weak and without a reasonable biological explanation, it is not unlikely that it could also be explained by chance or by an artifact. The committee therefore sees no reason to modify its earlier conclusion that the association is not likely to be indicative of a causal relationship. It therefore remains the committee’s belief that it is not likely that children (or adults) living near to high-voltage power lines are at risk through exposure to electromagnetic fields generated by those lines.” [p. 41]

# 102 2001

U.K. National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB)
Report of an Advisory Group on Non-Ionising Radiation (AGNIR)

ELF Electromagnetic Fields and the Risk of Cancer

“Laboratory experiments have provided no good evidence that extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields are capable of producing cancer, nor do human epidemiological studies suggest that they cause cancer in general. There is, however, some epidemiologic evidence that prolonged exposure to higher levels of power frequency magnetic fields is associated with a small risk of leukaemia in children. … In the absence of clear evidence of a carcinogenic effect in adults, or of plausible explanation from experiments on animals or isolated cells, the epidemiological evidence is currently not strong enough to justify a firm conclusion that such fields cause leukaemia in children. Unless however, further research indicates that the finding is due to chance or some currently unrecognized artifact, the possibility remains that intense and prolonged exposures to magnetic fields can increase the risk of leukaemia in children.” [p. 164]

# 101 2001

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)

TLVs and BEIs

“At this time, there is insufficient information on human responses and possible health effects of magnetic fields in the frequency range of 1 Hz to 30 kHz to permit the establishment of a TLV for the time-weighted average exposures.” [p. 142]

# 100 2000

Swedish Council for Work Life Research Health Risks of EMF

Electromagnetic hypersensitivity and health risks from electric and magnetic fields. Research review and evaluation.

“Extremely low frequency magnetic fields, i.e. between 1 and 300 Hz, are regarded as possible carcinogenic factors, primarily based on the results of epidemiological studies. This evaluation is based on studies of leukemia in children living close to power lines, and studies of primarily chronic lymphatic leukemia among adults who in their work are exposed to elevated magnetic field levels. Concerning other cancer forms, scientific data are currently insufficient for any conclusions to be drawn. For neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and diseases in the cardiovascular system, some indications for effects of occupational exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields exist, but these indications are currently insufficient for conclusions.” [p. 3]

# 99 2000

Virginia Department of Health
Division of Health Hazards Control

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Final Report)

“Based on the review and analysis of the exhaustive literature review and other research projects completed under the EMF-RAPID program, the Virginia Department of Health is of the opinion that there is no conclusive and convincing evidence that exposure to extremely low frequency EMF emanated from nearby high voltage transmission lines in causally associated with an increased incidence of cancer or other detrimental health effects in humans.” [p. 20]

# 98 2000

Australian Department of Health and Community Services
Radiation Advisory Committee

Annual Report of the Radiation Advisory Committee for the year ending September 2000

“The additional evidence concerning health effects of electromagnetic fields reviewed by the Committee during the past year has not been sufficiently compelling to alter the Committee’s position concerning the issue. That is that, overall, there is insufficient evidence to come to a firm conclusion regarding possible health effects from exposure to power frequency electric and magnetic fields.” [p. 21]

# 97 2000

Health Council of the Netherlands

ELF Electromagnetic Fields Committee

Exposure to electromagnetic fields (0 Hz – 10 MHz)

“The concern that is regularly voiced over supposed dangers of exposure to ELF EM fields is, in virtually every case, based on outcomes of the epidemiological research. The Committee finds that the quality of that research has improved substantially in recent years. However, it has not yet led to unequivocal, scientifically reliable conclusions. … Based on the totality of the results from epidemiological research, and taking into consideration the strengths and weaknesses of the different studies, the Committee believes that there is a reasonably consistent association between the occurrence of leukemia in children and residence near overhead power lines (both high-voltage and distribution lines). As has already been indicated, however, the date does not point directly to a causal link with exposure to ELF EM fields.” [p. 41, 43]

# 96 2000

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)

TLVs and BEIs

“At this time, there is insufficient information on human responses and possible health effects of magnetic fields in the frequency range of 1 Hz to 30 kHz to permit the establishment of a TLV for the time-weighted average exposures.” [p. 147]

# 95 1999

Florida Department of Environmental Protection

1999 Annual Report on EMF Research

“The overall conclusion of the Department’s review of the literature and the material presented at conferences is that here is still not conclusive scientific evidence of adverse health effects. There is no justification to warrant revising our regulatory standards.” [p. 5]

# 94 1999

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Health Effects from Exposure to Power-Line Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields

“The NIEHS believes that the probability that ELF-EMF exposure is truly a health hazard is currently small. The weak epidemiological associations and lack of any laboratory support for these associations provide only marginal, scientific support that exposure to this agent is causing any degree of harm. The NIEHS concludes that ELF-EMF exposure cannot be recognized as entirely safe because of weak scientific evidence that exposure may pose a leukemia hazard. In our opinion, this finding is insufficient to warrant aggressive regulatory concern.” [p. 36]

# 93 1999

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)

TLVs and BEIs

“At this time, there is insufficient information on human responses and possible health effects of magnetic fields in the frequency range of 1 Hz to 30 kHz to permit the establishment of a TLV for the time-weighted average exposures.” [p. 143]

# 92 1999

U.S. National Academy of Sciences (NAS)
National Research Council

Research on Power-Frequency Fields Completed Under the Energy
Policy Act of 1992

“We conclude that no finding from the EMF-RAPID program are alters the conclusion of the previous NRC review on the Possible Effects of Electromagnetic Fields on Biologic Systems (NRC 1997). In view of the negative outcomes of EMF-RAPID replication studies, it now appears even less likely that MFs in the normal domestic or occupational environment produce important health effects, including cancer.” [p. 8]

# 91 1998

World Health Organization (WHO)

WHO Fact Sheet No. 205: Electromagnetic Fields and Public Health: Extremely Low Frequency (ELF)

“There is no convincing evidence that exposure to ELF fields causes direct damage to biological molecules, including DNA. It is thus unlikely that they could initiate the process of carcinogenesis. However, studies are still underway to determine if ELF exposure can influence cancer promotion or co-promotion. Recent animal studies have no found evidence that ELF field exposure affects cancer incidence. … Therefore, a cause-and-effect link between ELF field exposure and cancer has not been confirmed.” [p. 4]

# 90 1998

Virginia Department of Health
Department of Hazards Control

Annual Report of the Virginia Department of Health on Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Thirteenth Annual Report)

“Based on the review and analysis of the available scientific literature to date, the preponderance of evidence for causation of cancer or any other deleterious effects in humans from exposure to EMF from nearby high voltage transmission lines is neither convincing nor consistent.” [p. 25]

# 89 1998

Florida Department of Environmental Protection

1998 Annual Report on EMF Research

“There continue to be many more studies that fail to demonstrate adverse outcomes due to EMF exposure. However, there are still enough studies that hint of enough of a possibility of a biological impact that additional studies should be continued. There are still only a few studies that show bioeffects at magnetic field intensities likely to be experienced in normal lifestyle situations. In those experiments involving exposures in the range of 6-12 mG, the results are for in vitro experiments not in vivo. A result seen in a cell culture in dish may not occur in a whole animal. No one can demonstrate a scientifically valid, harmful dose of EMF. Consequently, no one can say what is harmful exposure or what is safe exposure. Based on my review of the scientific research and literature to date, I find no credible evidence at this time to support initiating a revision of Florida’s existing EMF rules to more restrictive levels.” [p. 5]

# 88 1998

Canadian Working Group of the Federal-Provincial
Territorial Radiation Protection Committee

Health Effects and Exposure Guidelines Related to Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) 50/60 Hz Electric and Magnetic Fields: An Overview

“Research into the effects of (ELF) electric and magnetic fields have shown that some interaction between biological systems and the fields result in certain responses. However, significant detrimental interactions at ambient fields to which human and animals are typically exposed remains to be demonstrated. The research taken overall indicates that the evidence is insufficient to conclude that electric or magnetic fields cause a risk of cancer.” [p. 9]

# 87 1998

International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP)

Guidelines for limiting exposure to time varying electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields (up to 300 GHz)

“In the case of potential long-term effects of exposure, such as an increased risk in cancer, ICNIRP concluded that available data are insufficient to provide a basis for setting exposure restrictions, although epidemiological research has provided suggestive, but unconvincing, evidence of an association between possible carcinogenic effects and exposures at levels of 50/60 Hz magnetic flux densities substantially lower than those recommended in these guidelines.” [p. 3]

# 86 1998

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)

TLVs and BEIs

“At this time, there is insufficient information on human responses and possible health effects of magnetic fields in the frequency range of 1 Hz to 30 kHz to permit the establishment of a TLV for the time-weighted average exposures.” [p. 144]

# 85 1997

Virginia Department of Health
Department of Hazards Control

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Twelfth Annual Report)

“The results of most studies which imply a link between exposure to EMF and an increased risk of cancer are only suggestive and are far from elucidating causation. … Based on the available literature to date, the overall evidence for a causal link between exposure to power frequency EMF and increased incidence of cancer appears to be frail, contradictory and inconsistent, and lacks a clear dose-response pattern.” [p. 19]

# 84 1997

U.S. National Academy of Sciences (NAS)
National Research Council

Possible Health Effects of Exposure to Residential Electric and Magnetic Fields

“Based on a comprehensive evaluation of published studies relating to the effects of power-frequency electric and magnetic fields on cells, tissues, and organisms (including humans), the conclusion of the committee is that the current body of evidence does not show that exposure to these fields presents a human-health hazard. Specifically, no conclusive and consistent evidence shows that exposures to residential electric and magnetic fields produce cancer, adverse neurobehavioral effects, or reproductive and developmental effects.” [p. 1]

# 83 1996

Swedish National Board of Occupational Safety and Health
Swedish Board of Housing, Building and Planning
Swedish National Electrical Safety Board
Swedish National Board of Health & Welfare
Swedish Radiation Protection Institute

Low-Frequency Electrical and Magnetic Fields: The Precautionary Principle for National Authorities, Guidance for Decision-Makers

“The research findings presented hitherto afford no basis for and cannot be said to justify any limit values or other compulsory restrictions on low-frequency electrical and magnetic fields.” [p. 2]

# 82 1996

European Commission
Directorate General For Employment, Industrial Relations, and Social Affairs

Public Health and Safety Work, Non-ionizing Radiation, Sources,
Exposures and Health Experts

“There is no clear evidence that exposure to electromagnetic fields and radiation results in an increased risk of cancer. Whereas biological studies have demonstrated that UVR [ultraviolet radiation] can damage DNA directly and thereby initiate cancer, there is no such evidence in relation to electromagnetic fields. Neither is there persuasive evidence that electromagnetic fields can promote the development of cancer.” [p. 1]

# 81 1996

U.K. National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB)

Radon and Electromagnetic Fields Seen as Separate Health Issues

“The position of the Board in relation to the possibility that EMFs induce cancer is that there is no convincing evidence that the electric and magnetic fields generated by overhead power lines or electrical apparatus are harmful to health.” [p. 2]

# 80 1996

Virginia Department of Health

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Eleventh Annual Report)

“The preponderance of evidence for an increased risk of cancer in humans from exposure to EMF presented in the epidemiologic studies published so far, taken individually or collectively, can best be construed as tenuous, and does not allude to an inordinate hazard. … [I]t is not currently possible to state with any certainty that there is a human health risk associated with exposure to EMF or with living near high voltage transmission lines.” [p. 18]

# 79 1996

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

NIOSH Fact Sheet: EMFs in the Workplace

“The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and other government agencies do not consider EMFs a proven health hazard. Because some studies have associated high magnetic field exposures with increased cancer risks, the government will continue studying EMFs.” [p. 5]

# 78 1995

Swedish Criteria Group for Physical Risk Factors

Epidemiological Studies of Possible Associations Between Occupational Exposure to Magnetic Fields and Cancer--A Review

“In conclusion, we find - despite the comparatively high degree of credibility that can be given positive findings in some studies - that the results of these studies have not with sufficient degree of certainty shown that occupational exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields is associated with cancer.” [p. 24]

# 77 1995

Swedish National Board of Health & Welfare

Evaluation of the Effects of Electrical and Magnetic Fields.

“The existing epidemiological data cannot be used to support any definite conclusions as to whether exposure to electromagnetic fields increases the cancer-risk in any organ system.” [p. 1]

# 76 1995

Swedish National Board of Health & Welfare

Can Electrical and Magnetic Fields Cause Adverse Health Effects?

“There is no convincing support for a connection between exposure to electric and magnetic fields (EMF) and health effects such as cancer and reproductive disorders (spontaneous abortions, low birth weight, miscarriages).” [p. 1]

# 75 1995

Virginia Department of Health

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Tenth Annual Report)

“In view of the inconsistent and contradictory results in the literature currently available, the notable lack of a dose-response or an exposure-effect relationship, as well as the constraints of epidemiologic studies, it is not yet possible to ascribe EMF from high voltage transmission lines as an etiologic factor for cancers in humans.” [p. 3]

# 74 1995

Swedish Criteria Group for Physical Risk Factors

Magnetic Fields and Cancer: A Criteria Document

“After a review of studies of the possible cancer effect of magnetic fields, the Criteria Group concludes that these studies do not form the scientific basis for developing exposure limits for low-frequency magnetic fields under the ‘health based threshold limits as a base for exposure limits’ system.” [p. 11]

# 73 1995

Swedish National Electrical Safety Board

Magnetic Fields - No Limit Values But Some Caution

“According to the authorities mutual evaluation, our knowledge regarding how weak magnetic fields affect humans is not sufficient to set any limit values. Suspicions of a link between exposure to magnetic fields and cancer do, however, allow for a certain amount of caution to be recommended.” [p. 1]

# 72 1995

American Physical Society

Power Line Fields and Public Health

“The scientific literature and the reports of reviews by other panels show no consistent, significant link between cancer and power line fields. This literature includes epidemiological studies, research on biological systems, and analyses of theoretical interaction mechanisms. No plausible biophysical mechanisms for the systematic initiation or promotion of cancer by these power line fields have been identified. Furthermore, the preponderance of the epidemiological and biophysical/biological research findings have failed to substantiate those studies which have reported specific adverse health effects from exposure to such fields.” [p. 1]

# 71 1995

Australian Department of Health
Radiation Advisory Committee

The Annual Report of the Radiation Advisory Committee for the Year Ending September 1995

“Overall there is insufficient evidence to come to a firm conclusion regarding possible health effects from exposure to power frequency electromagnetic fields.” [p. 15]

# 70 1995

European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comite Europeen de Normalisation Electrotechnique (CENELEC)

Human Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields Low-frequency (0 Hz to 10 kHz)

“Some epidemiological results suggest the possibility of other effects on health, including carcinogenesis, from exposure to fields at levels much lower than those given in this standard. During 1991 to 1994, several reviews of this questions were carried out by international and national bodies. These concluded that no adverse effects of such lower-level fields had been established.” [p. 15]

# 69 1995

U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
Department of Energy

Questions and Answers about EMF: Electric and Magnetic Fields Associated with Use of Electric Power

“Some epidemiological studies have suggested that a link may exist between exposure to power-frequency electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) and certain types of cancer, primarily leukemia and brain cancer. Other studies have found no such link. Laboratory researchers are studying how such an association is biologically possible. At this point, there is no scientific consensus about the EMF issue—except a general agreement that better information is needed. A national EMF research effort is under way, and major study results are expected in the next few years.” [p. 1]

# 68 1994

American Medical Association
Council on Scientific Affairs

Effects of Electric and Magnetic Fields

“[N]o scientifically documented health risk has been associated with the usually occurring levels of electromagnetic fields; nevertheless, the American Medical Association should continue to monitor developments and issues related to the subject.” [p. 12]

# 67 1994

The Institution of Electrical Engineers (IEE)

The Possible Biological Effects of Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields

“The studies surveyed this year do not show firm evidence of biological effects of low-level, low-frequency electromagnetic fields. The quest for such effects has been primarily driven by epidemiological studies that suggest a link between exposure and leukaemia and other cancers. A plausible mechanism to explain any such effects has yet to emerge and hence the relevant electromagnetic field parameters are not known.” [p. 6]

# 66 1994

Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Health Services
Interagency Task Force Studying Electric and magnetic Fields

Connecticut 1994 Report on Task Force Activities to Evaluate Health Effects From Electric and Magnetic Fields

“No definitive cause and effect relationship between exposure to EMF and an increase in health risk has been established.” [p. 3]

# 65 1994

U.K. National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB)

Health Effects Related to the Use of Visual Display Units

“Thus, at present, there is no persuasive biological evidence that ELF electromagnetic fields can influence any of the accepted stages in carcinogenesis. There is no clear basis from which to derive a meaningful assessment of risk nor, is there any indication of how any putative risk might vary with exposure.” [p. 80]

# 64 1994

Australian Department of Health and Community Services
Radiation Advisory Committee

The Annual Report of the Radiation Advisory Committee For the Year Ending September 1994

“Overall, there is insufficient evidence to come to a firm conclusion regarding possible health effects from exposure to power frequency electromagnetic fields.” [p. 11]

# 63 1994

Swedish National Electrical Safety Board

Magnetic Fields -- Uncertainty Regarding Health Risks Remains

“Knowledge is currently insufficient regarding weak magnetic fields' affects on humans. Therefore, we do not have a basis of knowledge on which to set limits.” [p. 25]

# 62 1994

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Status Report on Potential Human Health Effects Associated with Power Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields. Reporting Period: June 1993 - June 1994

“It is impossible to predict effects (or lack of effects) with any certainty, and it is not clear which biological effects observed in cellular or animal studies (if any) could have significant human health implications. [p. ES-2] … There is no definitive indication that EMF exposure does or does not cause adverse health effects.” [p. X-9]

# 61 1994

Virginia Department of Health

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of high Voltage Transmission Lines (Ninth Annual Report)

“The scientific community has yet to arrive at a consensus on the issue of whether observed association between EMF exposure and disease incidence are causally linked.” [p. 3]

# 60 1994

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)

TLVs and BEIs

“At this time, there is insufficient information on human responses and possible health effects of magnetic fields in the frequency range of 1 Hz to 30 kHz to permit the establishment of a TLV for time weighted average exposures.” [p. 113]

# 59 1994

Danish Ministry of Health
Expert Group on Non-Ionizing Radiation

Report on the risk of cancer in children living in homes exposed to 50Hz magnetic fields from high-voltage lines

“The opinion of the group is that both the Danish and the Swedish study support the hypothesis of previous studies that children living near high-current plants have an increased frequency of cancer, but the results do not exclude the possibility that the association might be due to chance. If the increased cancer risk is due to 50 Hz magnetic fields, the uncertainty in the assessment of exposures to magnetic fields would result in a decreased association and thus a possible underestimation of the potential risk.” [p. 65]

# 58 1993

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Status Report on Potential Human Health Effects Associated with Power Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields Reporting Period: June 1992-June 1993

“[I]t is still not possible to arrive at definitive conclusions regarding the health effects from EMF exposure, based on the existing body of scientific evidence. There is no definitive indication that EMF exposure does or does not cause adverse health effects.” [p. X-7]

# 57 1993

American Industrial Hygiene Association

American Industrial Hygiene Association Expanded Position Statement on Extremely Low Frequency and Magnetic Fields

“At present, the AIHA finds that the lack of replicated studies, an accepted interaction mechanism in the laboratory studies, and an absence of significant associations with measured fields in the epidemiological studies, make it impossible to come to a definite decision regarding the magnitude of health effects associated with exposure to ELF.” [p. 1]

# 56 1993

Connecticut Interagency Task Force Studying Electric and Magnetic Fields
Department of Environmental Protection
Department of Health Service

Connecticut 1993 Report on Task Force Activities To Evaluate Health
Effects From Electric And Magnetic Fields

“No definitive cause and effect relationship between exposure to EMF and an increase in health risk has been established.” [p. 1-4]

# 55 1993

Virginia Department of Health

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Eighth Annual Report)

“Based on the information available to date, scientific consensus cannot incriminate exposure to EMF (including those from high voltage transmission lines) as an etiologic factor for cancer.” [p. 3]

# 54 1993

Swedish National Electrical Safety Board

Magnetic Fields and Cancer

“Within the scientific community, there is general agreement that the connection between magnetic fields and cancer still lacks scientific verification while, at the same time, the suspicion that such a connection exists has grown stronger.” [p. 1]

# 53 1993

Australian Department of Health and Community Services
Radiation Advisory Committee

The Annual Report of the Radiation Advisory Committee For the Year Ending September 1993

“In the absence of a clearly identified mechanism of cancer initiation or promotion by magnetic fields it cannot be presumed that reducing field levels will reduce risk. … Clearly, the point has still not been reached where scientific studies can unequivocally lead to a conclusion that powerline magnetic fields either do or do not contribute to serious illness.” [p. 25]

# 52 1993

Danish Ministry of Health
SEIIS No. 2 Expert Group on Non-ionizing Radiation

Rapport on risiko for Kraeft ved udsaettelse for ekstreme lavfrekvente magnetfelter I arbejdet

“On the basis of the Swedish study in particular, the suspicions harbored by the task force regarding a link between exposure to magnetic fields and an increased risk for leukemia have been reinforced; however, it was also noted that there is no correlation between the latest studies. … The task force finds that the most recent studies have not increased the suspicion of a possible link between occupational exposure to low-frequency electromagnetic fields and an increased occurrence of brain cancer.” [p. 96]

# 51 1993

Danish Ministry of Health
SEIIS No. 1 Expert Group on Non-ionizing Radiation

Rapport on risiko for Kraeft hos bern med bopael eksponeret for 50 Hz magnetfelter fra hojspaendingsanlaeg

“The expert group believed that neither the earlier nor the latest studies offers sufficient documentation to characterize 50 Hz magnetic fields in homes adjacent to high-current electricity supply plants as a cancer-inducing factor among children. The studies described do not, however, allow this assumption to be dismissed.” [p. 70]

# 50 1993

U.K. National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB)

Board Statement on Restrictions on Human Exposure to Static and Time Varying Electromagnetic Fields and Radiation

“[T]here is no clear evidence of adverse health effects at the levels of electromagnetic fields to which people are normally exposed. In particular, the epidemiological data do not provide a basis for restricting human exposure to electromagnetic fields and radiation….” [p. 1]

# 49 1993

U.S. National Academy of Sciences (NAS)
Committee on Assessment of the Possible Health Effects of Ground Wave Emergency Network
Board on Radiation Effects Research
Commission on Life Sciences
National Research Council

Assessment of the Possible Health Effects of Ground Wave Emergency Network

“Taken as a whole, the epidemiological literature indicates that there are not enough data to identify unequivocally, let alone to quantify, ELF-related cancer risks.” [p. 9]

# 48 1993

French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM)
Department of the Partnership for Social and Economic Development

Effects des Champs Electriques et Magnetiques du Tres Basse Frequence sur la Sante: Analyse de la Litterature Epidemiologique

“As long as the possibility of a confounding effect has not been formally eliminated, EMF can not be formally incriminated [in childhood cancer]. [p. 29] … The results [of adult residential studies] do not indicate in general associations between the measurements of EMF and cancer in adults. [p. 31] … Among the effects considered in the present report, those that concern health in general, depression and suicide, reproduction, cancer in the children of exposed subjects, were evoked as a result of very few discordant studies, often with a methodology highly subject to criticism. At
present, there does not seem to exist any serious argument that permits the implication of electric and magnetic fields in these pathologies.” [p. 46]

# 47 1993

International Commission On Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP)

Press Release, 12 May 1993

“The most recent data reflect some improvement in methodology in laboratory studies and in epidemiological studies of both occupational and general populations. After careful consideration of this evidence, the Commission concludes that the data related to cancer do not provide a basis for health risk assessment of human exposure to power frequency fields.” [p.1]

# 46 1993

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
Bonneville Power Administration

Electrical and Biological Effects of Transmission Lines: A Review

“During the last 10 years, the number of studies looking for an effect of powerlines on human health has continued to increase. Laboratory studies have documented some short-term changes in physiological functions in people exposed to electric and magnetic fields. No harmful effects have yet been identified, however.” [p. 52]

# 45 1993

Oregon Department of Energy

Report of the EMF Committee to the Energy Facility Siting Council

“Some early epidemiological studies have suggested an association between EMF exposure and increased risk for diseases such as leukemia in children, brain cancer, male breast cancer, lymphoma, miscarriages and birth defects. However, research to date has not shown that EMF exposure causes these diseases.” [p. 3]

# 44 1992

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Questions And Answers About Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMFs)

“The bottom line is that there is no established cause and effect relationship between EMF exposure and cancer or other disease. For this reason, we can't define a hazardous level of EMF exposure.” [p. 9]

# 43 1992

Virginia Department of Health

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Seventh Annual Report)

“Based on the contradictory and inconclusive information available in the literature to date, it is impossible to ascertain whether or not electromagnetic fields from high voltage transmission lines pose an increased risk of cancer in humans.” [p. 4]

# 42 1992

Health Council of the Netherlands

Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields and Health

“There is at present insufficient scientific proof that chronic exposure to ELF EMF with low field strengths as found in the domestic or professional environment results in adverse health effects. Such exposure neither influences the initiation or development of cancer, nor results in premature termination of pregnancy nor adversely influences fetal development.” [p. 6]

# 41 1992

Victoria Department of Health (Australia)
Health and Community Services

Report of the Panel on Electromagnetic Fields and Health to the Victorian Government

“At present there is no agreed scientific argument to specify a field value between safe and unsafe fields other than that set by the International Radiation Protection Association [IRPA]." [appendix 6, p. iv] … Because there is no established mechanism relating health and magnetic fields and because there is no certainty even that higher magnetic fields increase health risks, electricity supply authorities argue that there is no logic in specifying lower fields than those set by IRPA. … Electric field exposure has not been linked to health in studies so far undertaken.” [appendix 6, p. 56]

# 40 1992

U.K. National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB)

Electromagnetic Fields and the Risk of Cancer

“In summary, the epidemiological findings that have been reviewed provide
no firm evidence of the existence of a carcinogenic hazard from exposure of
paternal gonads, the fetus, children, or adults to the extremely low frequency
electromagnetic fields that might be associated with residence near major
sources of electricity supply, the use of electrical appliances, or work in the
electrical, electronic, and telecommunications industries. … In the
absence of any unambiguous experimental evidence to suggest that
exposure to these electromagnetic fields is likely to be carcinogenic, in the
broadest sense of the term, the findings to date can be regarded only as
sufficient to justify formulating a hypothesis for testing by further
investigation.” [p. 132]

# 39 1992

Department of Energy (Ireland)

Electromagnetic Fields: A Review of Recent Developments in Research and Public Attitudes, and the Response of Authorities to These Developments

“There is still no agreement among research workers that electromagnetic fields from powerlines are a potential hazard to health. [p. xviii] … Without exception these reports [from international agencies that have examined EMF] and the positions taken by the organizations concerned do not see enough evidence to be able to indict electromagnetic fields as a hazard to health.” [p. xx]

# 38 1992

Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU)
Panel for the Committee on Interagency Radiation Research and Policy Coordination

Health Effects of Low-Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields

“This review indicates that there is no convincing evidence in the published literature to support the contention that exposures to extremely low-frequency electric and magnetic fields (ELF-EMF) generated by sources such as household appliances, video display terminals, and local power lines are demonstrable health hazards. Epidemiologic findings of an association between electric and magnetic fields and childhood leukemia or other childhood or adult cancers are inconsistent and inconclusive. No plausible biological mechanism is presented that would explain causality. Neither is there conclusive evidence that these fields initiate cancer, promote cancer or influence tumor progression. Likewise, there is no convincing evidence to support suggestions that electric and magnetic fields result in birth defects or other reproductive problems. Furthermore, any neurobehavioral effects are likely to be temporary and do not appear to have health consequences.” [p. ES-11]

# 37 1992

Texas Public Utility Commission

Health Effects of Exposure to Power-Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields

“The Committee believes that, based on its evaluation of the existing EMF research, the evidence at this time is insufficient to conclude that exposure to EMF from electric power transmission lines poses an imminent or significant public health risk. … The Committee concludes that at present there is insufficient evidence regarding human health effects of EMF to provide the basis for a health-based standard.” [p. xxi]

# 36 1992

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Status Report on Potential Human Health Effects Associated with Power Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields. Reporting Period: June 1991-June 1992

“The body of scientific evidence regarding the health effects from EMF exposure remains unclear. There is no definitive indication that EMF exposure does or does not cause adverse health effects.” [p. VIII-12]

# 35 1992

Illinois Department of Public Health
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency

Possible Health Effects of Extremely Low Frequency Electric and Magnetic Field Exposure: A Review

“Whether these observed ELF bioeffects cause adverse health effects in humans and animals is not yet clear. No scientific consensus has been reached on this issue. Without sufficient information, health risks from exposure to these fields cannot be properly determined. [p. iii] … Because some studies have identified positive associations between ELF field exposure and certain adverse health effects, while other studies have not, the data obtained to date are far from conclusive.” [p. 53]

# 34 1992

Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering
Prepared for the Department of Health Services, State of Connecticut

Response to Inquiry -- Electromagnetic Field Health Effects

“Absolute proof of the occurrence of adverse effects of ELF fields at prevailing magnitudes cannot be found in the available evidence, and the same evidence does not permit a judgment that adverse effects could not occur, as is true for any putative hazard without a solid base of evidence. … [T]he epidemiological literature does not presently support a conclusion that electromagnetic field exposure unequivocally increases risk for cancer or any other adverse health outcome.” [p. 7]

# 33 1992

U. S. Environmental Protections Agency (EPA)
Scientific Advisory Board (SAB)
Radiation Advisory Committee
Non-Ionizing Electric and Magnetic Fields Subcommittee

An SAB Report: Potential Carcinogenicity of Electric and Magnetic Fields -- Review of the ORD's "Potential Carcinogenicity of Electromagnetic Fields"

“There is insufficient evidence from the human epidemiology data and from animal/cell experiments to establish cause-and-effect relationships between low-frequency electric and magnetic field exposure and human health effects and cancer.” [p.5]

# 32 1991

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)

Documentation of the Threshold Limit Values and Biological Indices, Sixth Edition

“Overall, the epidemiological studies on the possible correlation between cancer risk and residential exposure to electromagnetic fields do not support the conclusion of a strong association. … These considerations, as well as the primarily negative outcomes of the most recent epidemiological studies, suggest that ELF fields in the residential environment pose little, if any, cancer risk.” [p. 60]

# 31 1991

Virginia Department of Health

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Sixth Annual Report)

“Despite the availability of a plethora of epidemiological reports, experimental studies in animals, and regulatory documents on the subject, two basic questions concerning the public health implications yet remain to be answered. (1) What are the adverse health effects that can be indubitably attributed to long-term exposure to either an electric fields or a magnetic fields or both? (2) If there are any adverse effects, what levels and or duration of exposure are responsible for associated effects? [p. 3] … Although experimental and epidemiological results have provided evidence for various biological effects of ELF fields, the conclusion that these effects present a health hazard seems premature.” [p. 9]

# 30 1991

U.K. National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB)

Biological Effects of Exposure to Non-Ionizing Electromagnetic Fields and Radiation: II. Extremely Low Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields

“It is acknowledged that there are several possible areas of biological interaction which have health implications and about which our knowledge is limited. These include possible changes in night-time melatonin levels in the pineal gland and alterations in circadian rhythms induced in animals by exposure to ELF electric fields, and possible effects of ELF electric or magnetic fields on the processes of development and carcinogenesis. … These effects are not well established and do not provide a basis for establishing restrictions on human exposure, although further investigations are warranted.” [p. Ab-1]

# 29 1991

U.S. Committee on Interagency Radiation Research and Policy Coordination (CIRRPC)

Review of U.S. EPA Report 'Evaluation of the Potential Carcinogenicity of Electromagnetic Fields'

“We conclude that the evidence presented in the [EPA] report does not provide a scientifically sound basis for linking cancer to exposures to electric and magnetic field.” [p. 4]

# 28 1991

Department de Sante Communautaire du Centre Hospitalier de l'Universite Laval, Quebec, Canada

Les Effects des Champs Electromagnetiques de 50/60 Hz sur la Sante: Bilan et Perspectives de Sante Publique Pour le Quebec

“Can 60 Hz electromagnetic fields, which we are regularly exposed to in our daily lives, be damaging to our health? It actually is not possible to respond to that question in a definitive manner.” [p. 218]

# 27 1991

New South Wales Government (Australia)

Inquiry into Community Needs and High Voltage Transmission Line Development

“It has not been established that electric fields or magnetic fields of power frequency are harmful to human health, but since there is some evidence that they may do harm, a policy of prudent avoidance is recommended. No reason exists for concern as to the effect of the fields on animals or plants.” [p. 162]

# 26 1991

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Status Report on Potential Human Health Effects Associated with Power-Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields. Reporting Period: August 1990-June 1991

“[T]he lack of conclusive results from the epidemiological studies and the lack of a dose/response relationship in whole animal and cell-level studies suggests that developing EMF regulations based on the results of the studies reviewed in this report may be premature.” [p. 81]

# 25 1990

Virginia Department of Health

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Fifth Annual Report)

“Based on the information available in the literature to date, the scientific consensus remains supportive of the conclusion that it has not been established that electric and magnetic fields can cause an increased incidence of leukemia in humans. … A causal relationship between exposure to these fields and cancer is still not established and remains a hypothesis even in those studies which claim to suggest an association.” [p. 3]

# 24 1990

Swedish National Energy Administration

Power-Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields

“[N]o negative health effects have so far been proven upon exposure to power frequency magnetic fields up to circa 50 uT. The hypothesis regarding a connection between cancer and magnetic fields can today neither be accepted nor rejected.” [p. 2]

# 23 1990

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
House of Representatives
House Conservation Committee

Report of the House Conservation Committee Study of Electro Magnetic Fields Pursuant to House Resolution 38, November 30, 1990

“Because the scientific community does not indicate a clear causal connection between electromagnetic fields and both cancers and leukemias, it appears to be premature for Pennsylvania to label electromagnetic fields as health hazards without further study.” [p. 15]

# 22 1990

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Office of Health and Environmental Assessment
Office of Research and Development

Evaluation of the Potential Carcinogenicity of Electromagnetic Fields, External Review Draft, October 1990

“In evaluating the potential for carcinogenicity of chemical agents, the U.S. EPA has developed an approach that attempts to integrate all of the available information into a summary classification of the weight of evidence that the agent is carcinogenic in humans. At this time, such a characterization regarding the link between cancer and exposure to EMF fields is not appropriate because the basic nature of the interaction between EM fields and biological processes leading to cancer is not understood. … With our current understanding, we can identify 60 Hz magnetic fields from power lines and perhaps other sources in the home as a possible, but not proven, cause of cancer in humans.” [p. 1-5]

# 21 1990

International Radiation Protection Association
International Non-Ionizing Radiation Commission (IRPA/INIRC)

Interim Guidelines on Limits of Exposure to 50/60 Hz Electric and Magnetic Fields

“The epidemiologic studies are not conclusive. Although, these epidemiological data cannot be dismissed, there must be additional studies before they can serve as a basis for health hazard assessment. Furthermore, scant laboratory evidence is available to support the hypothesis that there is an association between 50/60 Hz fields and increased cancer risk.” [p. 120]

# 20 1989

California Public Utilities Commission
California Department of Health Services

Potential Health Effects of Electric Power Facilities -- Draft Report

“It is recommended that California take no action at the present to regulate electric and magnetic fields around electric power facilities. Any such actions are premature given current scientific understanding of this public health issue. Too little is known presently to be able to determine where or what rules would provide useful protection. Existing research data are not sufficient for adequate accurate risk assessment. We do not know which components, if any, of electric power utility operations pose significant health hazards. Although biological effects are clearly established, the relationship of these effects to possible public health risks is not yet established.” [p. B-4]

# 19 1989

U.S. Congress
Office of Technology Assessment

Biological Effects of Power-Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields -- Background Paper

“As recently as a few years ago, scientists were making categorical statements that on the basis of all available evidence there are no health risks for human exposure to power-frequency fields. In our view, the emerging evidence no longer allows one to categorically assert that there are no risks. But it does not provide a basis for asserting that there is significant risk.” [p. 3]

# 18 1989

U.S. Department of Energy
Bonneville Power Administration

Electric and Biologic Effects of Transmission Lines: A Review

“During the last 10 years, the number of studies looking for an effect of powerlines on human health has continued to increase. Laboratory studies have documented some short-term changes in physiological functions in people exposed to electric and magnetic fields. No harmful effects have yet been identified, however.” [p. 52]

# 17 1988

Virginia Department of Health

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Fourth Annual Report)

“The results obtained from these [recent epidemiologic] studies are equivocal and disputatious, open to varying interpretations, and are far from establishing a definitive causal relationship between exposure and [adverse health] effect. The studies are only suggestive of a tenuous association, if any, do not obviate other confounding and etiological factors, and virtually lack a dose-response relationship.” [p. 2]

# 16 1988

Swedish National Energy Administration

Power Generated Magnetic Fields -- An Important Research Area

“[The National Energy Administration's] evaluation, that there are no health risks associated with electric and magnetic fields of the magnitude found along power lines, is supported by current research. At the same time, however, it must be stated that the collective epidemiological information has shown indications that the magnetic fields can be of importance in the occurrence of cancer.” [p. 1]

# 15 1988

Department of Energy (Ireland)

Electromagnetic Fields from High Voltage Transmission Lines: A Report to Mr. Michael Smith, T.D. Minister for Energy

“There is no widespread agreement among research workers that electromagnetic fields from power lines present a potential hazard to the health of people or animals. What evidence there is of adverse health effects comes from a small number of epidemiological studies where an association has been observed between cancer in children and the proximity of their homes to concentrations of overhead electricity cables. Many other epidemiological studies have observed no such associations.” [p. S-1]

# 14 1987

Virginia Department of Health

Monitoring of Ongoing Research on the Health Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lines (Third Annual Report)

“The overall evidence from epidemiological and experimental studies available to date is still somewhat rarefied and incongruous, and does not unambiguously elicit exposure to electric and magnetic fields in the magnitude produced by high voltage transmission lines as a cause of cancer or any other significant deleterious effects in humans.” [p. 7]

# 13 1987

World Health Organization (WHO)

Environmental Health Criteria 69. Magnetic Fields

“The preliminary nature of the epidemiological evidence, and the relatively small increment in reported incidence, suggest that, although these epidemiological data cannot be dismissed, there must be considerable further study before they can be accepted.” [p. 22]

# 12 1987

Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences
Committee on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields

Biological Effects of Power-Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields, Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences

“In our 1983 report (IVA Report # 240), we stated that there are a number of well-established effects caused by power-frequency electric and magnetic fields, but that none of these effects were judged to constitute a health hazard. Since that time, international research in this area has been intensive, and a large number of studies have been published. After consideration of the situation at present, we feel that the above evaluation is still generally correct. However, more studies than before have shown the existence of effects which are of such a type as to constitute a health hazard, assuming that they can be proven and related to effects on humans. It is primarily magnetic fields which are thought to cause these effects.” [p. 1]

# 11 1987

Ontario Ministry of Health (Canada)
Disease Control and Epidemiology Service

Health Effects of Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields: A Review of Clinical and Epidemiological Studies

“The literature available to date on human health effects of exposure to ELF fields examines the incidence of cancer, adverse reproductive outcomes and physical and psychological general health effects. This literature fails to provide conclusive or convincing evidence that there is a significant public health risk associated with ELF fields. General agreement exists among scientific researchers that the ambiguities present in the current literature require clarification.” [p. I]

# 10 1987

Swedish National Energy Administration

Power Generated Electric and Magnetic Fields -- A Health Risk?

“Existing knowledge gives no support to any health risks associated with exposure to electric fields of the strength of Swedish power lines. … Regarding magnetic fields of the strength found along Swedish power lines, no biological effects have been shown. Comprehensive research continues to clarify whether or not there is a connection between exposure to magnetic fields and cancer, above all child cancer. The difficulties in showing such connections are great.” [p. 2]

# 9 1987

Florida State Department of Environmental Regulation

Report of the Florida Electromagnetic Fields Sci