Electromagnetic fields and radiation in everyday life

Electromagnetic fields are part of modern life – they cannot be completely avoided. Conscious, responsible use of technology can help to reduce potential risks and damage to health. A healthy degree of distance, reduction and mindfulness is the best protection against unnecessary radiation exposure – without sacrificing comfort and technology.

Electromagnetic fields arise wherever electricity flows or signals are transmitted. They are often colloquially referred to as 'radiation' – even though they are not made up of ionizing radiation, unlike X-rays.

There are two main types:

1. Low-frequency fields – 'household fields'
   Low-frequency fields arise wherever electricity is consumed – i.e., in devices that are plugged into a power outlet or connected to the power grid. Examples include washing machines, hair dryers, refrigerators, induction cookers, and even power lines in walls. They can trigger small electrical currents in the body, but these are so weak in the home that they have no effect on humans.
2. High-frequency fields – 'radio fields'
   High-frequency fields are used for data transmission – for example, through the use of cell phones, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile communications, or satellite signals. Here, energy is emitted in the form of electromagnetic waves that penetrate the body and can generate heat or trigger other reactions.

Electromagnetic fields surround us almost everywhere – at home, on the road, at work, even outside. We are aware of some sources (e.g., a cell phone held to our ear), while others go unnoticed because they are such a natural part of our everyday lives (e.g., radio waves or the use of an induction cooktop).

The following overview shows typical everyday sources of electromagnetic radiation and their respective properties:

The human body consists largely of water with electrolytes (salts) and therefore has a certain conductivity for electrical current. Electromagnetic fields generate very weak currents in the body, which can influence biological processes. The strength and nature of the effect depends on the frequency, intensity, and duration of exposure to the electromagnetic fields.

Short-term, scientifically confirmed effects:

• Heating of tissues, e.g., in the case of microwave radiation.
• Stimulation or irritation of nerves and muscles in very strong low-frequency fields, e.g., near high-voltage installations or railway power lines

Possible long-term effects (not yet clearly proven):

• Changes in cell activity or oxidative stress.
• Connection with sleep disorders, headaches, or concentration problems.
• Discussion about a possible cancer risk, especially with long-term, intensive cell phone use.

For many years, research has been conducted worldwide to determine whether high-frequency electromagnetic fields (e.g., from cell phones, Wi-Fi, or mobile networks) can cause diseases such as cancer, sleep disorders, or concentration problems. The research is extensive, but the results are inconclusive; there is therefore no scientific evidence. However, as a precautionary measure, it is recommended to keep exposure low by taking simple measures such as keeping a distance or limiting usage times, especially for children and adolescents.

To ensure that electromagnetic fields from devices such as smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, microwaves, or induction cookers do not pose any health risks, clear limits and safety standards apply in Germany and the EU. The most important ones come from the ICNIRP (International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection) and are adopted by Germany's Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) and the EU. Manufacturers must comply with these requirements before a product can even be placed on the market.

The guidelines set very precise limits, e.g. for

• Emission power (e.g. SAR value for smartphones)
• High-frequency fields (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile communications)
• Low-frequency fields (household appliances, power lines)

These limits are set well below the threshold at which a health-related effect could occur. The standards take into account particularly sensitive groups such as children or people with medical implants.

For everyday life, this means:

• Devices may only emit a maximum permissible radiation power.
• Products must be tested and may only be placed on the market after testing.
• Mobile phone networks and transmission masts are monitored regularly.
• Operators are obliged to comply with minimum distances and technical protective measures.

In short, standards and guidelines, as well as the corresponding conformity tests, ensure that the radiation we encounter in everyday life remains well below levels that are harmful to health. For consumers, this means a high level of safety – especially if you can take additional precautions yourself, such as increasing the distance, reducing usage time, or choosing low-radiation devices.

In Germany, the BfS ensures that people and the environment are protected from harmful radiation. The central German authority examines and evaluates which types of radiation – whether radioactive, ultraviolet, medical, or electromagnetic – may pose a health risk and, on this basis, sets limits and recommendations.

The BfS conducts its own measurements and research projects, for example on exposure from cell phones, Wi-Fi, or power lines, and monitors compliance with existing limits. At the same time, it provides the public with neutral and understandable information on current research findings and gives practical tips on radiation protection in everyday life.

In an emergency, such as a radiation accident, the BfS also coordinates measurements, warnings, and protective measures.

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