Abstract

The extremely low frequency (ELF) radiation from various laptops and monitors model was investigated using a cell sensor manufactured by Action Electronic, USA that is optimized to measure radiofrequency and extremely low frequency radiation. The ELF measured vary between 0.05 and 2.5 mG for all the laptops/monitors studied however, Hp Pavilion dv6000 laptop was considered to emit highest ELF in all the laptops/monitors studied as it has 1.5 mG at 30 cm and 0.05 mG even at 100 cm from the screen and this value is more that the specified exposure limit of 1 mG at 30 cm. This work reveals that those using laptops/monitors are exposed to ELF radiation the amount now depend on the model of laptops/monitors used. There is need for standard regulation/policy on the brand of monitors and laptops imported to this country in order to reduce the ELF exposure incurred in the use of all these appliances and to avoid health challenges that can result from exposure to ELF radiation obtain from laptop/monitors.    

Key words: ELF radiation, laptops, monitors, health challenges.