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WHAT ARE EMFS?
EMFs (electromagnetic fields) are a type of radiation that comes from power lines and other sources. Some researchers believe these are harmless to human health; however, others have shown that EMF can be a danger to our health.
The issue is especially worrisome for anyone living near high-voltage power lines, substations, etc. Property, such as homes and businesses, near these types of sources can put people’s health in danger. Generally, the closer you are, the higher the EMFs, which could put your health in danger.
It’s important to note that areas with high levels of EMFs generally off limits to the general public. However, there’s still a concern about exposure to low level EMFs and human health.
WHY HAVE AN EMF SURVEY BEFORE BUYING A PROPERTY?
An EMF survey can show whether or not a property you’re planning on buying may be located too near an EMF source. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons for getting a survey before you buy:
1). Increased risk of cancer: an increasing number of studies seem to point to a link between brain cancer and EMF exposure. With the World Health Organisation listing electro-magnetic radiation as a type 2b carcinogenic.
2). Anyone with poor health may face increased risks: people who are already suffering from poor health may face an increased risk of health risks from both low and high frequency EMFs. They may experience symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Depression
- Lack of concentration
- Changes in memory
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Restlessness and anxiety
- Skin burning and tingling
- Changes in an electroencephalogram (a measure of electrical activity in the brain)
- And more
Diagnosis is very difficult in the UK because for a long time, all the aforementioned symptoms are classed as psychosomatic and medical training hasn’t equipped most doctors to deal with things like EHS.
3). Dangers of EMF exposure during pregnancy: researchers have found that pregnant women and their unborn babies may face an increased risk due to EMF exposure. Now, to be sure, living in the modern world we’re all exposed to EMFs from a variety of sources including our electronic devices, home appliances, etc.
Some of the research seemed to find exposure to powerlines and substations can harm the mother and baby’s health. They also found an increased risk of miscarriage in mothers exposed to EMFs.
4). Interruption of the body’s natural EMFs: exposure to artificially generated EMFs, to low-frequency fields, has also been found to cause an increase in health issues. This is because the artificially generated EMFs were able to disrupt the body’s natural EMF fields, which work to control the body’s metabolic functions (such as digestion, circulation, etc.). Artificial EMFs were able to change the chemical reactions, which may even compromise the immune system.
5). The rise of EMFs: with all of our modern technological advances, we’re seeing an increase in the EMFs both at home and at work. We have more devices and appliances around us than ever, each of which puts off low-level EMFs.
EMF fields are impossible to see or feel, so it’s important to run an EMF survey of a new property to make sure you and your family or your employees don’t face an increased risk of EMF exposure from other sources, such as power lines, etc.
6). Long-term exposure poses a risk: doctors are increasingly seeing an increase in symptoms with no apparent underlying cause. The symptoms are real, and physicians are frustrated from the lack of a proper diagnosis. Yet, countless studies have shown health risks to long-term exposure to low-level EMFs for some people.
7). Faulty wiring: is another source of EMFs in a building. A building inspector does inspect the electrical system of a property before it can be sold; however, if the problem is bad wiring, this can be difficult to detect.
8). Higher frequency EMFs can cause other problems: another issue is high frequency EMFs causing interference with your cell phone service, WiFi reception and more.
9). Home’s resale value could be lower: an EMF problem can cause devaluation of a property. If you’re considering putting your house up for sale, an EMF survey could point out any issues your home with exposure. If you find a problem, you may be able to address it, thus saving the value of your home when it comes time to sell.
A home EMF survey can help you find any possible issues before you sell or buy. This way, you’ll know the property is safe and the environment is healthy for you and your family.
HIRING A PROFESSIONAL EMF HOME INSPECTOR
What should you look for in a professional EMF home inspector? Let’s take a look:
1). Ask for a referral: chances are you may know someone who has hired an EMF home inspector. You can check with family, friends, colleagues, etc. to see if they can offer a referral to a reputable EMF inspector.
2). Certification & a license: look for a professional who has gone through a certification process. This isn’t necessarily required, but it’s better to use someone who has been educated on EMF radiation, how to measure it, etc. It’s also a good idea to choose an inspector who has several years of experience.
3). Types of EMFs measured: it’s a good idea to choose a professional who tests for these types of EMFs:
ELF & VLF: from powerlines, electrical panels, wiring, light fixtures, etc.
Dirty electricity: spikes and surges of EMF radiation can be carried along powerlines, building wiring, etc. It’s a good idea to check for these sources of EMF exposure, too.
An EMF survey of a new property is for the safety of you and your family. And if you’re preparing to sell your home, you can rest assured the property value will not be affected if the EMF exposure is low.
Look for a professional EMF home inspector—it’s the best route to ensure the testing is done properly, and the property is truly safe.