[The new AIRM guidelines for workers exposed to electromagnetic fields: health surveillance and fit for work judgment].

Abstract

Summary: This report illustrates some points relating to the health surveillance of workers exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMF) contained in the new Guidelines on EMFs. A working group from AIRM (Italian Association of Medical Radiation Protection) is currently implementing these guidelines. The report focus in particular on two specific aspects, critical to set up and carry out a correct Health Surveillance (HS): 1. Identification of the exposed workers (who will undergo Health Surveillance). 2. Health Surveillance contents. Considering the peculiar characteristic of the agents at risk, the identification of workers to undergo health surveillance (not specified in the legislation), should involve an assessment of the exposure levels as well as the specific health condition of each "worker at particular risk". Health surveillance programs, to be applied in case of greater exposure, will be focus on identifying sensitive risk groups who should undergo more frequent health checks.