Measuring human exposure to magnetic fields near EHV 400 KV GIS substation and power lines in state of Qatar

Measurements of magnetic fields around power lines and distribution substations located in residential areas have increased in recent years because of public concern about the possible negative health effects of these fields. This paper presents the results of magnetic field measurements performed in and around a 400 kV gas insulated substation belonging to the Qatar power grid in order to face the requirements of the international guidelines regarding the human exposure to the magnetic fields. The measurements was covered the magnetic fields from the substation equipment, substation control room and from the incoming/outgoing overhead lines surrounding the substation. The measurement and calculation of magnetic field profile of 400 kV power lines are also carried out. The resulting levels of magnetic fields were presented in a variety of graphical formats including 3-D plots and contour maps in order to facilitate the location of high intensity magnetic field zones inside and outside the substation. The high intensity field zones are highlighted and the highest field values found is compared with the exposure limits given by the international standards and actual legislation of the Qatar Ministry of Environment. The results show that all measured values were well below the standard recommendations safety limits. The results and conclusions of this work are outlined in the paper.