PRECAUTIONARY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE PLACEMENT OF HIGH-VOLTAGE POWER LINES IN A POPULATED BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The paper covers extremely low-frequen-
cy electromagnetic fields generated by high-voltage power lines, including magnetic fields in particular, as they can be more of a health concern, especially to children and foetuses. Although the statistical results are thought-provoking, there is no accepted biolog- ical mechanism to explain the epidemiological results; indeed, the relation may be due to chance or confounding. This topic requires the collaboration of several disciplines. The paper covers the legal background in Hungary, tech- nical issues, the effects on the environment, medical research, the precautionary measures recommended by the WHO, and the fact that many countries are considering lowering the health limit for magnetic induction fields to pro- tect the health of their citizens. The tightening of health limit values as a recommendation can be observed in many countries. In addition, an additional challenge is the design of high-volt- age transmission lines, especially with regard to the better protection of the properties and settlements concerned. The paper also points out that a ground cable would be preferable to overhead cables. Finally, it noted that trans- formers should preferably be located not in buildings but further away from them.