Assessment of electromagnetic fields around selected electrical secondary transformers and its effect on the attached houses in Kuwait

Abstract

This paper presents a detailed description of the work performed on the assessment of electromagnetic fields (EMF) levels around three electrical secondary transformers (substations) installed in a residential area for one year. The EMF measurements were taken during fall, winter, spring, and summer seasons. In addition, the magnetic field measurements for houses that are attached to the substations were taken during summer in August between 10:30 am and 14:00 pm, using EMDEX II and SNAP meters. The results have shown that no electric field is generated in the vicinity of the substations (underground lines), which is considered an advantage compared to overhead lines, whereas, the magnetic field levels were detected. The measurements of the magnetic field were directly proportional to the electrical consumption, either daily or seasonally. Moreover, the magnetic field levels inside the attached houses were above the value of 0.4 µT due to cable lines, electrical panel, wiring circuits, and electrical appliances. Public awareness campaign towards energy conservation and energy efficiency is required in order to reduce magnetic field levels and improve the environment. Moreover, precautionary guidelines for exposure limits to magnetic fields have to be set for new installations similar to the some European countries.