Facing EMF unknowns: What should a prudent utility do

Journal Article · Wed May 01 04:00:00 EDT 1991 · Electricity Journal; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/1040-6190(91)90154-L· OSTI ID:5286655

Gulliver, J W; Manahan, M D ^[1]

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1. Pierce, Atwood, Scribner, Allen, Smith and Lancaster, Portland, ME (USA)

While scientific research into the possible cancer-causing effects of EMF exposure has been underway for more than a decade, only recently has sizable public attention, generated by media reporting, focused on the possible risk of cancer from every electrical conduit, ranging from small home appliances to - ominously - utility substations and transmission and distribution lines. As a result, the health risks posed by EMFs, if any, have drawn attention from quarters that make utility executives pay attention: state regulators, legislators, and the courts. If additional scientific research ultimately confirms adverse health effects of EMF exposure the impact on the electric utility industry and society as a whole could be immense. At this stage, the evidence from the scientific and medical communities is decidedly inconclusive. And that lies at the heart of the regulatory and legal problem. A prudent avoidance strategy appears to be the best course presently available to utilities.

• OSTI ID: 5286655
• Journal Information: Electricity Journal; (United States), Journal Name: Electricity Journal; (United States) Vol. 4:4; ISSN ELEJE; ISSN 1040-6190
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290300* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Environment
Health
& Safety
296000 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Electric Power
560400 -- Other Environmental Pollutant Effects
63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
ELECTRIC UTILITIES
ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS
HAZARDS
HEALTH HAZARDS
LEGAL ASPECTS
PUBLIC RELATIONS
PUBLIC UTILITIES
RECOMMENDATIONS
REGULATIONS