As an effect of the technological revolution, there has been a huge increase of the electromagnetic fields sources that may become at global level a harmful environment factor, having a negative impact on human health and safety. This paper comprises a brief presentation of the data concerning the effects of electromagnetic fields exposure on biological systems, in order to make a pertinent evaluation of human health risks. It will be provided an overview of the known biological effects of electromagnetic fields in the frequency range of 300 Hz to 300 GHz (including radiofrequency fields) for assessment of risks from occupational and general population exposure. The paper includes subjects such as natural and human-made electromagnetic field sources, the main applications of electromagnetic fields and sources of exposure, some biological effects and the most important protective measures against the harmful effect of electromagnetic field.

Keywords: Electromagnetic field, Specific absorption rate, Living systems, Health effects, Protective measures.