Their health impacts
An exceptional number of studies have been conducted over the last 40 years to determine the possible effects of electric and magnetic fields on human health.
Despite the broad scope of these studies, researchers have been unable to demonstrate any harmful effects on human health associated with these fields. In other words, the electric and magnetic fields we live with on a daily basis are not harmful to our health.
Canadian and Québec public health authorities agree that the data is reassuring and that the exposure limits recommended for the public by international agencies (like the ICNIRP) are safe.
Human health
The history of electricity in Québec dates back more than 100 years. Since then, there has been a lot of questioning about the possible health effects of electric and magnetic fields.
Duration: 5 minutes 48 seconds
More than 40 years of research
Hydro‑Québec has helped to advance knowledge about electric and magnetic fields through its own research. The company has conducted a number of studies with various academic institutions, including the Montréal Heart Institute, the Lawson Health Research Institute, McGill University and Université de Montréal, in addition to Health Canada and other power utilities, such as Électricité de France, Ontario Hydro, BC Hydro and the Bonneville Power Administration in Oregon.
Duration: 1 minute 31 seconds
Radio waves
Unlike electric and magnetic fields associated with a frequency of 60 Hz, radio waves are electromagnetic waves that can travel over great distances. As a result, the effects on the body, their units of measure and their practical applications differ.
Duration: 3 minutes 32 seconds
Opinions of public health authorities
Opinions on the health effects of electric and magnetic fields have been issued by groups of experts mandated by national public institutions and international organizations as well as by specialists acting on their own. Cited below are opinions issued by Québec, Canadian and international authorities about 60-Hz alternating fields, like those produced by power transmission and distribution lines:
Hydro‑Québec research publications from 1988 to 2020
Listed below are Hydro-Québec’s main research publications between 1988 and 2020 on the health effects of electric and magnetic fields.