#968: Possible EMR hazard from electronic theodolites
To All
I received the following message and have spoken to the person who sent it. He wishes to remain anonymous because of his employment.
An electronic theodolite sends out a laser beam (seen as a red beam at night) and the surveyors who use them can spend quite a bit of time with their head next to the electronics. It seems that the electronics that drive the laser are emitting EMR of an unknown frequency and power level.
I doubt that these devices have ever been tested for EMR emissions or electronic compatibility/interference. This is an issue that needs further investigation and I would appreciate any comments that may be useful in pressing for this to be followed up on.
Regards
Don Maisch
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To Don Maisch:
Dear Sir, I have worked in the survey industry for many
years now and in recent times have become more concerned
with the effects of long term exposure to the electronic
theodolites now used almost exclusively. After reading
several papers discussing the dangers of
mobile phones and transmission towers, and the symptoms people seem to
suffer from on exposure to them, I fear the emf’s generated by electronic
theodolites may be causing similar problems. I am hoping that you may know
if any studies have been carried out on this type of technology or perhaps
if you could refer me to any researcher who is investigating it.
The batteries powering these theodolites are more powerful than the ones
in mobile phones, and the operators head and face is in closer, and
longer, contact with the machine than most phone users would be. They send
out signals strong enough to interfere with two way radios and mobile
phones at least one or two metres from the source. I have always used my
right eye to observe with when using the theodolites, and now the right
side of my face always has a mild burning sensation. I have several
“sunspots” on my right temple, cheek and forehead that are far worse than
those on my left side; my right sinus and ear are always congested and the
right side of my nose has been sore for a considerable time. I constantly
have discomfort in and behind my right eye as well. I know of another
survey technician that suffered an unexplained epileptic seizure after
using an electronic theodolite for some time and have heard of others who
have been blinded by the blood vessels in the eyes suddenly rupturing.
If you think my concerns are merited, and would like to know more details
I would be happy to help investigate this matter further. There are many
young people now in the industry who will be using these machines
throughout their careers and I do not believe their health should be
jeopardised because of their employment.