Non-ionising radiation (NIR) is the term given to the part of the electromagnetic spectrum where there is insufficient quantum energy to cause ionisations in living matter. It includes static and power frequency fields, radiofrequencies, microwaves, infra-red, visible and ultraviolet radiation.

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) arise from electric charges and the strength of a field at a point depends upon the distribution and behaviour of the charges involved. The term EMF as used here covers fields in the frequency range below 300 gigahertz (GHz). Electromagnetic fields include static fields such as the Earth's magnetic field and fields from electrostatic charges, electric and magnetic fields from the electricity supply at power frequencies (50 Hz in the UK), and radio waves from TV, radio and mobile phones, radar and satellite communications.

The HPA receives and answers many thousands of enquiries from members of the public each year. Extensive information aimed at the public is published on this website and in leaflets freely available to the public.

Choose a topic from the menu to learn more about different forms of electromagnetic fields.