Electromagnetic Fields

Electrical installations have a harmful impact on the environment in the form of electric and magnetic fields, especially in the low-frequency range. Typical field sources in the low-frequency range include

• public power supply systems (high-voltage/overhead lines, underground cable routes,
  substations)
• railway power supply installations (overhead lines/feeder lines)
• power stations (e.g. hydroelectric power)

The legal basis for assessing the effects of electric and magnetic fields on humans is the 26^th Ordinance of the Federal Immission Control Act (26^th BImSchV). Among other things, the Ordinance on Electromagnetic Fields specifies frequency-dependent thresholds for electric field strength and magnetic flux density in locations where people reside not only temporarily.

In the case of a new construction or significant alterations to electrical installations (see above), proof of compliance with 26^th BImSchV must be furnished in the form of measurements and calculations in order to obtain permits. In addition, the so-called minimization requirement of the 26^th BImSchVwV applies to new constructions or essential modifications of low-frequency and direct current installations, according to which the field strengths emitted by the installation must be minimized in accordance with the state of the art.

Other tasks related to testing electromagnetic environmental compatibility include

• determination and assessment of electric and magnetic fields in the context of urban land-use planning
• investigation of electric and magnetic fields in occupational safety
• effects on sensitive technical equipment (e.g. medical equipment or equipment for research purposes)
• assessment of measures to reduce electric and magnetic fields (e.g. return conductor systems in overhead contact line systems or shielding of magnetic fields)

To determine and evaluate electric and magnetic fields, we use high-resolution measurement technology in accordance with the standards, the latest calculation software and take into account the current legislation and standards.