Navigation and service

Electromagnetic fields

Through the use of certain technologies – e.g. power supply network and mobile communication – electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields are generated in man´s environment. These fields can be described by their strength (amplitude), their oscillation (wave length) and number of oscillations (frequency).

One differentiates high-frequency and low-frequency fields, they are part – as is optical radiation – of non-ionising radiation. In contrast to ionising radiatione.g. X-rays – the energy of this radiation is not sufficient for charging atoms and molecules electrically – for ionising them. Nevertheless can this type of irradiation have impacts on health. Different concepts serve to protect against immediate hazards and as precaution.

What are electromagnetic fields?

Electric and magnetic fields describe the spatial distribution of a force which can act upon electric charges and currents. Electromagnetic fields can be generated artificially, but also occur naturally in the environment. They belong to "non-ionising radiation". Electromagnetic fields are part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Over its entire range, the spectrum extends from static electric and magnetic fields over optical radiation to very energetic gamma radiation.

5G

5G

The next generation (5G) of mobile communications is available since 2020. Self-driving cars, voice-activated assistants, and intelligent refrigerators are just a few examples of how the higher data transmission rates of the new mobile phone technology could be used. However, there are also some concerns.

high-voltage power line on a field

What are high-voltage lines?

The electricity supply at home has a voltage of 230 volts (230 V). However, much higher voltages are used to deliver electricity to homes. Overhead lines carry up to 380.000 volts (380 kV) to transport electricity from power stations to towns and urban centres.

Collage mit Smartphone, Mobilfunksendemast, Strommast und Elektroauto an der Ladestation

Competence Centre for Electromagnetic Fields

The Competence Centre for Electromagnetic Fields is pooling the BfS’s expertise in relation to static and low-frequency electric and magnetic fields, as well as high-frequency electromagnetic fields. It seeks to intensify relevant research and communication activities.

A smartphone held in the hand

Tips for users of smartphones and tablets

Just like classic mobile phones, smartphones use high frequency electromagnetic fields to transmit speech and data. Besides mobile communication connections, Smartphones can usually also make use of Wireless Lan (wi-fi). This is similarly the case for tablets: They use high frequency fields for wi-fi connections and often also have mobile communications inbuilt.

The BfS gives tips to reduce individual exposure to electromagnetic fields.

Electric car; the rear section of the vehicle is transparent. The battery is visible.Source: Firstsignal/Getty Images

Radiation protection in electromobility

As with anywhere that electricity is used, electromobility leads to the production of electric and magnetic fields. These fields surround the battery, motor and cables during the operation of electric vehicles. In many cases, the strongest fields are found in the footwells of the front seats.

Site information and functions

© Bundesamt für Strahlenschutz