Evaluation of non-ionizing radiation around the shortwave diathermy devices

Short wave and microwave equipment are used for treatment purpose in physiotherapy units. Such equipments\´ stray fields can affect around them in the near field region. This fact has been stressed in current studies. In this way, some "safe operating areas" or safe proximity distances have been recommended. Effects on the health of EM energy, nowadays, have been discussed as topic frequently. Hence, controlled medical aimed radiofrequency energy gained more and more importance at the hospitals. In this study, leakage or stray fields of shortwave diathermy (27.12 MHz) equipments are measured and evaluated in terms of standards and safe proximity or approach distances. Also, placement of various types of treatment equipments is be evaluated in order to avoid over exposure and electromagnetic interference (EMI). A practical measuring method is for new or old equipment in medical units.