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DETERMINATION AND ELIMINATION OF HAZARDOUS MICROWAVE FIELDS ABOARD NAVAL SHIPS

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Z. R. GLASER, G. M. HEIMER · 1971

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The Navy recognized microwave radiation as a personnel hazard requiring systematic measurement and control protocols over 50 years ago.

Plain English Summary

Summary written for general audiences

This 1971 Naval research document describes methods for identifying and controlling microwave radiation hazards to personnel aboard military ships. The study outlines how the Navy measured electromagnetic fields from communication, radar, and navigation equipment to protect sailors from potentially dangerous exposure levels.

Why This Matters

This early Naval document reveals that the military recognized microwave radiation as a personnel hazard over 50 years ago. The fact that the Navy developed comprehensive protocols to measure and control EMF exposure aboard ships demonstrates institutional awareness of health risks that predates much civilian research. What makes this particularly relevant today is the recognition that naval vessels create uniquely hazardous electromagnetic environments through concentrated arrays of high-powered transmitters. The parallels to our modern world are striking. Today's urban environments increasingly resemble these naval scenarios, with dense concentrations of cell towers, WiFi networks, and wireless devices creating cumulative exposures that weren't anticipated when safety standards were established. The Navy's proactive approach to hazard evaluation and control stands in contrast to the reactive stance often taken with civilian EMF exposure.

Exposure Information

Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.

Cite This Study
Z. R. GLASER, G. M. HEIMER (1971). DETERMINATION AND ELIMINATION OF HAZARDOUS MICROWAVE FIELDS ABOARD NAVAL SHIPS.
Show BibTeX
@article{determination_and_elimination_of_hazardous_microwave_fields_aboard_naval_ships_g6087,
  author = {Z. R. GLASER and G. M. HEIMER},
  title = {DETERMINATION AND ELIMINATION OF HAZARDOUS MICROWAVE FIELDS ABOARD NAVAL SHIPS},
  year = {1971},
  
  
}

Quick Questions About This Study

Naval ships concentrate multiple high-powered radar, communication, and navigation systems in confined spaces, creating potentially dangerous electromagnetic field exposures for crew members that required systematic evaluation and control measures.
The study identified hazards from communication systems, command and control equipment, surveillance radar, fire control systems, and navigation equipment all operating simultaneously aboard ships in close proximity to personnel.
The Navy developed specific prediction and measurement techniques to evaluate electromagnetic fields produced by typical naval equipment, conducting comprehensive hazard evaluation surveys aboard both actual and representative vessels.
Ships create concentrated arrays of high-powered transmitting equipment in confined metal spaces with personnel in close proximity, creating electromagnetic field exposures not found in typical civilian environments.
Yes, the document describes various methods and techniques the Navy used to define hazardous areas and implement control measures to protect personnel from potentially dangerous electromagnetic field exposure.