Electromagnetic field exposure

Alzheimer-type dementia - Electromagnetic field exposure Factor

RMA definition

In the Reasonable Hypothesis Statement of Principle for Alzheimer-type dementia the RMA requirement is being exposed to at least two microtesla (2µT) of extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF), for at least eight hours per day on more days than not, for a continuous period of at least 10 years before the clinical onset of Alzheimer-type dementia.

"Extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF)" is defined to mean: Electromagnetic fields generated at a frequency of 3-3000 hertz (Hz)Factor attributes.

General information

An electromagnetic field is a physical field produced by electrically charged objects.  Electrical power supply and all appliances using electricity are the main sources of ELF-EMF fields; up to about 300 Hz, computer screens, anti-theft devices and security systems are the main sources of ELF-EMF from 300 Hz to 10 MHz.

Occupations most at risk are linesmen and substation operators and those who work in close proximity to electrical devices such as electricians, welders and sewing machine operators.

For  examples of the exposure level from typical household appliances operating on a 50Hz current see the Microtesla exposure table.

You may need to seek further information about the currents used and manufacturers specifications if a particular electrical appliance is specified as the cause of the exposure.

Last reviewed for CCPS 16 September 2011.

Investigative Documents

Preliminary questions [41437]

41468 there is some evidence that electromagnetic field exposure may be a factor in the development of the condition under consideration.

41469  the veteran has established the causal connection between electromagnetic field exposure and operational service for the clinical onset of the condition under consideration.

Clinical onset and operational service [41469]

41470 the veteran has been exposed to at least two microtesla of extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF), for at least eight hours per day on more days than not, for a continuous period of at least 10 years.

41471 the veteran was exposed to at least two microtesla of extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF), for at least eight hours per day on more days than not, for a continuous period of at least 10 years before the clinical onset of the condition under consideration.

41472 operational service made a material contribution to the veteran's exposure to at least two microtesla of extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF), for at least eight hours per day on more days than not, for a continuous period of at least 10 years before the clinical onset of the condition under consideration.

41473 the veteran's exposure to at least two microtesla of extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF), for at least eight hours per day on more days than not, for a continuous period of at least 10 years before the clinical onset of the condition under consideration, on operational service, was due to the veteran's serious default, wilful act or serious breach of discipline.