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Ultra low frequency radiation (ULF) — "magnetic smog"???

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not specified in article text · 1980

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Early 1980 research identified 'magnetic smog' from transit systems as potential health concern.

Plain English Summary

Summary written for general audiences

This 1980 research examined ultra low frequency (ULF) magnetic radiation, termed 'magnetic smog,' with particular focus on BART transit systems. The study investigated how extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields from transportation infrastructure might affect human health. This represents early recognition that everyday electrical systems could create concerning electromagnetic exposures.

Why This Matters

What makes this 1980 research particularly significant is its early identification of 'magnetic smog' as a health concern, decades before most people considered EMF exposure problematic. The focus on BART transit systems highlights how our transportation infrastructure creates continuous electromagnetic exposures that most commuters never consider. Ultra low frequency fields penetrate buildings and bodies easily, making them especially concerning for long-term exposure scenarios.

The reality is that ULF magnetic fields from transit systems, power lines, and electrical infrastructure create the background electromagnetic environment we all live in. While we focus on cell phones and WiFi, these lower frequency sources often produce stronger magnetic field exposures. This early research anticipated what we now understand: our modern electrical world creates a complex soup of electromagnetic exposures that didn't exist in human history.

Exposure Information

Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.

Study Details

To investigate the effects of ultra-low-frequency magnetic radiation from the BART system on human beings and the environment, and to explore the potential use of the BART system as a magnetic probing device.

Measurements of ultra-low-frequency magnetic radiation were conducted at Stanford Radioscience Labor...

The transit system increases the background field at ultra-low-frequencies by 100 to 1000 times at a...

The BART system produces significant ultra-low-frequency magnetic radiation that may affect human beings and the environment. The magnetic effects of BART are more widespread than initially thought. The system could also be used as a powerful source of magnetic fluctuations for probing the earth.

Cite This Study
not specified in article text (1980). Ultra low frequency radiation (ULF) — "magnetic smog"???.
Show BibTeX
@article{ultra_low_frequency_radiation_ulf_magnetic_smog__g5293,
  author = {not specified in article text},
  title = {Ultra low frequency radiation (ULF) — "magnetic smog"???},
  year = {1980},
  
  
}
No DOI on file for this study.

Quick Questions About This Study

Magnetic smog refers to ultra low frequency electromagnetic fields generated by electrical transit systems like BART. These fields are created by the massive electrical currents needed to power trains and can extend significant distances from the tracks and stations.
Ultra low frequency magnetic fields operate at much lower frequencies than cell phone radiation but often create stronger magnetic field exposures. ULF fields penetrate buildings and bodies more easily, creating continuous background exposure rather than intermittent phone-specific exposure.
This 1980 research was groundbreaking because it identified electromagnetic pollution as a health concern decades before mainstream recognition. It demonstrated early scientific awareness that our electrical infrastructure creates novel environmental exposures with potential biological effects.
Yes, modern electric transit systems continue generating significant magnetic field exposures. Current systems often use higher power levels than 1980s infrastructure, potentially creating stronger electromagnetic environments for commuters and nearby residents.
ULF radiation penetrates deeply into biological tissue and creates continuous exposure scenarios. Unlike higher frequency radiation that may be blocked by buildings, ultra low frequency fields pass through most materials, making avoidance difficult.