Background:

Despite increasing exposures, the U.S. lacks a federal occupational safety program or data gathering for non-ionizing Electromagnetic Field (EMF) radiation. Maintenance workers such as electricians, HVAC technicians, and window washers face elevated risks near rooftop wireless antennas, with many rooftops documented as out of compliance with RF exposure limits. Unlike in the past—when occupational EMF exposure was mostly limited to telecommunications and electric utility workers—today, most professions involve increasing exposure. Workers in healthcare, education, retail, construction, and emergency services are routinely exposed to both low-frequency (e.g., magnetic fields) and radiofrequency (RF) radiation, often without training or awareness.

Methods:

This presentation reviews agency records, policy documents, and scientific literature to examine the history of U.S. EMF protections. It compares U.S. inaction to international frameworks, particularly the European Union’s directive mandating EMF exposure assessments and workplace protections. The presentation also outlines components of a modern U.S. EMF safety program, spanning both RF and low-frequency fields as recommended by now retired OSHA experts.

Results:

Federal agencies previously acknowledged EMF risks and both NIOSH and OSHA had active EMF research programs and expertise. OSHA’s 1994 submission to the FCC called for training, medical monitoring, hazard assessments, and engineering controls. NIOSH developed precautionary guidance and safety checklists. However, these efforts were never institutionalized. Today, data gathering, oversight, and enforcement remain virtually absent. Although OSHA can cite both employers and landlords, no federal or state agency actively engages in surveillance nor educating employers and workers, leaving most unaware of risks or reporting mechanisms.

Conclusion:

A modern U.S. EMF safety program is urgently needed to protect workers. It should include comprehensive exposure assessments, mitigation strategies, employer/worker education, medical monitoring, and enforcement.