Workers with implanted pacemakers and defibrillators may face a severe risk of EMI in the workplace, which can jeopardize their devices and jeopardize their health. It is highly recommended to adopt a proactive approach towards mitigating the risks associated with Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) in the workplace.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of employees must be of utmost priority, and steps should be taken to minimize exposure to EMI.
What is Electromagnetic Interference?
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is a significant concern in the workplace and for employees with an implanted heart device such as a pacemaker or defibrillator.
These devices regulate the electrical activity in the heart and prevent arrhythmias. However, electromagnetic interference can be harmful to these devices because these devices can malfunction and cause health issues.
This blog post discusses the dangers of electromagnetic interference for employees who have implanted heart devices. Further detail about the preventive measures for protecting the employees working in an organization is also mentioned.
Implantable Device EMI Risks
EMI occasionally causes interference with implantable heart devices. Engineers have designed these devices in such a way that they detect and respond to the electrical activity that is taking place in the heart.
Occasionally when these devices are exposed to EMI, they can misinterpret the signals and respond inappropriately. When such vital devices malfunction, they may interfere with the intended device function.
Types of Electromagnetic Interference
A study by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found that EMI causes interference with the function of implantable heart devices in 15% of the cases. After that, another study was published in The Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology.
The study revealed that 27% of patients with pacemakers experience negative symptoms due to EMI, including dizziness and palpitations.
How Can Workers Protect Themselves from The Risk of EMI?
The risk of EMI is serious for workers with heart equipment. Workers must protect themselves if they have an implantable heart device and work in an environment where EMI is concerned. They can take the following preventive measures to protect themselves.
1. Identification of Potential EMI Sources
If an employee works in an environment where EMI can be concerned, then the first step is to identify the potential sources of EMI. These sources most often include the following:
- Overhead power lines
- Wireless communication devices
- Motors in close proximity
- Large and small magnets
- High voltage or high current electrical equipment
2. Shielding Devices to Avoid the Risk of EMI
Shielding devices are available to protect employees from electromagnetic energy in the environment. These devices are designed so that the block absorbs the electromagnetic energy and does not allow contact with the implanted heart device
3. Safe Distance
To avoid the harmful effects of electromagnetic interference (EMI), it is important to keep a safe distance from possible EMI sources. For instance, a person who has a heart device implanted in their body should not work too close to power lines. A minimum distance of 6 feet is recommended for such a person.
4. Reporting Symptoms to a Physician
If the employee experiences any adverse symptoms, such as palpitations or syncope in the work environment, they must report all the symptoms to their physician. If any employee is working in an environment where EMI can threaten their implantable heart device, they must consult their physician.
A physician will help them determine if additional preventive measures could be taken. Physicians will recommend that employees avoid specific electrical equipment and minimize their exposure to electromagnetic energy at their workplace as much as possible.
Conclusion
Electromagnetic energy can be harmful and cause malfunctioning in the implanted heart devices of the employees working in an organization. Employers should try to identify the potential sources of EMI in the work environment and employees should consult with their physician.
Distance from the source of EMI is the main protective measure a heart patient should take. Shielding materials and clothing are of some potential benefit to protect employees from some sources of EMI in the workplace.
Stuart D Bagley, MS CIH CSP is a senior consultant and owner at IAQ-EMF Consulting Inc.
Published April 19, 2023