Health Risk Assessment of Implantable Medical Devices and Electromagnetic Interference: A Standard Approach for the Workplace

TRACK: OEM Education and Scientific Research

Guillaume Girard, Eng, Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN
William Greg Lotz, PhD, CDC/NIOSH, Cincinnati, OH
Timothy L. Newman, MD, First Energy Corporation, Akron, OH

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) or electromagnetic fields (EMF) in the workplace potentially impact implantable medical devices and pose a risk to individual health and safety. The most common medical devices are cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators, due to the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. The use of medical devices to manage diabetes and neurologic conditions are increasingly becoming more common in the workplace. NIOSH protocols for the assessment of electromagnetic interference with medical devices have been developed to facilitate a common approach. This discussion will provide a review of medical conditions, implantable devices, and an overview of NIOSH standards to address workplace health and safety risks. A protocol developed for the electric utility industry will be provided for reference.