Ecodesign of Low-Voltage Systems and Exposure to ELF Magnetic Fields

The ecodesign of modern residential and commercial low-voltage systems implements energy and equipment cost savings, optimizing the size of the distribution system without compromising its functionality or causing environmental contamination, including electromagnetic pollution. Protection of persons against shock hazards should be increased, and the electrical interferences among power systems should be reduced. To achieve the aforementioned improvements, a possible ecodesign calls for an earthing system utilizing single-phase separation transformers installed in the unit and grounded at the midpoint of their secondary side. The introduction of a source of magnetic fields into the premises at the power frequency of 60/50 Hz [i.e., extremely low frequency (ELF)] might expose persons to potential adverse health effects, as well as sensitive electronic equipment to disturbances. This paper seeks to clarify this matter by evaluating the ELF magnetic fields as produced by the user´s own transformer and by other units eventually present in the vicinity.