An Evaluation of the Electromagnetic Radiation Levels of Tbilisi School Environments Using Direct Measurements
Received: 9 July 2025 | Revised: 5 September 2025 | Accepted: 6 September 2025 | Online: 8 December 2025
Corresponding author: Tamar Nozadze
Abstract
Technological advances have led to an increase in ambient Electromagnetic Field (EMF) levels, adding to the natural background EMFs. Modern electronic devices contribute to this rise, resulting in what is known as Electromagnetic (ΕΜ) pollution. With the widespread adoption of wireless technology, concerns have grown about the biological effects of long-term EMF exposure, particularly for vulnerable groups, such as children and individuals with underlying health conditions. Current international safety standards primarily focus on human exposure and do not consider the potential effects on plants and animals. EMFs from communication devices are classified as "possibly carcinogenic," yet public awareness and precautionary measures remain limited, partly because EMFs are invisible to humans. Although it is difficult to completely avoid exposure, adhering to the proposed limits can help reduce the health risks. Children are a particularly important group to consider when examining the potential effects of EM radiation. Since children spend much of their day at school, they experience prolonged, nearly continuous exposure to EM fields. This study aims to assess the ΕΜ background in selected school zones in Tbilisi, Georgia. Direct measurements were utilized to map the EMF levels in the selected schools, identify high-exposure areas -"hot-spots", and evaluate compliance with the safety standards.
Keywords:
environment, EMF measurement, EM pollution, human exposure, ICNIRP limits, school locationsDownloads
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