Assessment and Management of Risks from Occupational Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (0 Hz to 300 GHz): A Compass to Keep the Right Course Through European and Italian Regulations

This paper outlines the specific provisions of Italian legislation regarding workers' exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from 0 Hz to 300 GHz compared to the minimum health and safety requirements set in European Directive 2013/35/EU. In particular, the path to be followed to assess and manage occupational exposure to EMFs is outlined in relation to the distinction between 'professional' and 'non-professional' exposure of workers, as well as to the precautionary limits regarding exposures from power lines (50 Hz) and broadcast and telecommunication fixed systems (100 kHz-300 GHz) established by Italian regulations. The reasons underlying such an approach-mainly relying on the intent to reconcile scientific evidence with risk perception in public opinion-are analysed and discussed with the aim of increasing the knowledge of national regulatory provisions on occupational risk assessment, which may be more stringent than the requirements envisaged by international guidelines and community regulations.