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We have become so dependent on electricity that we can hardly imagine the world without it. But electricity is still a relatively new technology and it is only recently that its potentially harmful effects on human health and wellbeing have been seriously considered. As well, in common with other conventional energy sources, the consumption of electricity is increasing and its production continues to deplete the planet’s dwindling reserves of nonrenewable fuel resources.

There is already a growing body of concern about the stress from “electronic smog” and the associated risk of cancers, including leukemia, caused by high-tension power lines. Now, however, there is mounting evidence that there may also be problems associated with electricity within our homes. These problems may stem from the additional physical and psychological disturbances electricity causes to our natural biological systems. These effects are thought to result from the very nature of electricity and from the electric and magnetic fields present in all domestic circuits and appliances. However, bear in mind that research into this area is still in its infancy and as yet results, although giving cause for concern, are tentative and inconclusive.

What can we do to protect ourselves in our homes and workplaces from this imperceptible pollution? The most experience has been gained from the work carried out in German homes using the Baubiologie approach. Although electrical surveys are best, there are many simple and commonsense solutions that everybody can introduce into their own homes.

Certain commonly used domestic appliances also raise questions of safety. TVs and VDUs, for example, emit various forms of static electricity and radiation and also deplete negative ions in the air. Good ventilation and humidity levels are therefore important to prevent dry air and to remedy negative ion deficiency. As a precaution, always sit well back from the screen (and not to one side, where most leakage occurs). VDUs are of more concern since people tend to spend long periods using them, either at work or as recreation (computer games). You can have the amount of radiation coming from VDUs tested and protective screens, which are atleast of some help, are readily available.

Like VDUs, microwave ovens need testing regularly since the door can become defective and release radiation. There is also argument regarding evidence of biological effects from microwaves, irrespective of thermal effects. Currently, however, safety standards in the West take account only of the thermal effects. In the USSR, however, safety requirements are about 1000 times more stringent.

Alternating/direct current

All domestic supplies that come from central grids are alternating current (ac) and the voltages in common use are 120v in North America, 220v in Europe, and 240v in the UK and Australia. Unlike direct current (dc), such as that produced by a battery where electrons flow in one direction only between positive and negative poles, ac reverses its flow continually in a cycle alternating in direction between the charged poles. Domestic main current is generally supplied in Europe at a frequency of 50 cycles per second (50 hertz, or hz) and in North America at 60hz. Alternating current is the preferred form of electricity supply for numerous reasons: it can be generated by large power stations more efficiently than dc; it can be transmitted over long distances at high voltages with little loss of power; and it can be converted easily from one voltage to another, or to dc, as required, by the end user.

Electric fields

When an object is charged with electricity the region near it has an electric field. The field willmove in different directions depending on whether the object is positively or negatively charged. When a particle is charged it is described as beingionized. Air is ionized most strongly in the upper atmosphere (the ionosphere), but since air is a poor conductor the electrons flow with difficulty to the ground. Solid objects, such as houses, are far better conductors in this respect.

Weak charges of electricity in the atmosphere that cannot be earthed due to the presence of insulating materials will accumulate as static electricity. Common materials around the home that cause static include plastics, synthetic fibres, rubber- or foam-backed carpets, rubber underlays, and rubber-soled shoes. Static is more likely to build up in poorly ventilated rooms.

You can prevent the accumulation of static electricity by avoiding materials with high electrical insulation properties. If acute, you can discharge static electricity by taking a bath or shower, going barefoot for a few hours (preferably on uncarpeted floors or in the garden), or by wearing leather-soled shoes. Natural materials and fabrics are more conductive and allow static to disperse. Adequate ventilation and humidity can also prevent static build-up.

Any metal object can cause problems. Being a good conductor of electricity it can act as an antenna and become charged. This may add to your own personal charge if the metal is sufficiently close — as it is in the metal springs of a mattress or a metal bed frame. Consider replacing metal-framed beds with wooden ones and using only fibre-filled mattresses and natural fabrics for bedding.

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