An evaluation of radiofrequency exposure from therapeutic diathermy equipment in the light of current recommendations.

Shortwave and microwave diathermy equipment use by physiotherapy departments in Grampian Region has been studied. Stray electric and magnetic fields close to equipment have been measured and compared with exposure levels recommended by the INIRC and the NRPB. Fields above the recommended whole body levels extend to 0.5-1.0 m from the electrodes and cables for continuous wave (cw) shortwave equipment, and up to 0.5 m for microwave units and pulsed shortwave models. Operators were exposed to local fields above these values for 2 - 3 min during cw shortwave treatments, but rarely exceeded the recommended exposure. However, short localised exposures to high fields, which can occur if the operator moves close to the electrodes or cables, could exceed these limits. Physiotherapists are advised to remain at a distance of at least 1 m during cw treatments, and not to approach within 0.5 m of the electrodes and cables even for a short period.