Neuroelectric mechanisms applied to low frequency electric and magnetic field exposure guidelines--part I: sinusoidal waveforms.

Electric and magnetic field exposure guidelines are developed from established mechanisms of bioelectric interaction. Such mechanisms involve phenomena of electrostimulation-the functional influence of applied electrical forces on nerve and muscle, and, at quasi-static frequencies, on magneto-dynamic mechanisms. The paper develops criteria of human reactions based on theoretical models with parametric values derived from experimental observations. These basic restrictions on electrostimulation effects are referenced to the induced in situ electric fields. Basic limitations are differentiated for induction in the heart, peripheral nerves, the extremities, and the central nervous system. The paper recommends maximum permissible exposure limits which account for (a) adverse reaction criteria, (b) statistical distribution of reaction thresholds, and (c) acceptability factors. From the basic limitations the paper further develops reference levels which apply to environmental electric or magnetic fields.