This code should be read by: All STFC staff, tenants who are responsible for equipment or facilities generating strong time varying Electro-Magnetic Fields (EMFs) – this would include Radio Frequency (RF) and microwaves. And all staff, tenants, visitors, facility users and contractors who work in areas where strong time varying Electro-Magnetic Fields (EMFs) exist

Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) Group Introduction to SHE Code 23 “Managing risks from strong time-varying Electro Magnetic Fields - including RF and microwave power sources”

Why an STFC Electro-Magnetic Field (EMF) SHE Code? The STFC uses equipment that generates strong EMFs in the Radio Frequency (RF) and Microwave regions of the electro-magnetic spectrum. These include: RF systems of particle accelerators; Radars; Imaging systems; and Radio transmission systems. It is recognised that EMF radiation may, under certain conditions, give rise to health hazards. Alleged, long term risks are difficult to quantify and subject to ongoing research and establishing ‘safe’ levels of exposure is not straight forward.

Key features Establishes Director appointed EMF Protection Advisors (EPAs) to provide guidance on EMF safety and undertake EMF surveys of equipment. Establishes for EMFs measurable: Action Values - frequency-dependent EMF field strength above which documented risk assessments are undertaken, EMF surveys conducted and warning signs posted; and Limit Values - frequency-dependent EMF field strength the exposure of people above which requires medical assessment by Occupational Health Advisors.  Action Values established at general public exposure limits.

Key points Read that part of the Code relevant to you. If your work involves, or you plan to use, equipment that generates significant EMFs: Inform and consult your EMF Protection Advisor (EPA); Ensure warning signage is place in areas where strong EMFs exist; Ensure EMF surveys are conducted for all equipment generating EMFs above the Action Value Undertake documented Risk Assessments for all areas above the EMF Action Value; and Restrict access to EMF areas for those with implanted medical devices (e.g. pacemakers) Report all incidents or near misses involving strong EMFs to your manager and in SHE Enterprise.

SHE Training 1 day ‘RF Safety Awareness’ training events are available for EMF Protection Advisers (EPAs) and managers responsible for equipment or areas where strong EMFs exist To book this training contact your local SHE training contacts: DL/RAL 8288; SO 2061; UKATC 8325 Further questions should be directed to SHE Group Graeme Finlan, DL, 3147, RAL, 6249 Mark Roberts, DL, 3283 Matt Dickson, RAL, 5329 Or your Departmental Safety Contact