62-814.100. Intent, Findings, Basis of Standards, and Research Needs

(1) Intent. The intent and purpose of this chapter is to establish electric and magnetic field (EMF) standards for 60 hertz electrical transmission lines and substations rated at 69 kV or greater, to prescribe how compliance with those standards shall be determined, and to establish rules for all electrical facilities, pursuant to Sections 403.061(30) and 403.523(1) and (14), F.S., relating to the protection of public health and welfare from such electrical facilities.

(2) Findings. Based on the information available to the Department, the Department makes the following general findings:

(a) The Department has reviewed the present scientific data on the potential for health effects of electric and magnetic fields. The Department has also reviewed data on the existing or potential electric and magnetic field levels near electrical transmission and distribution lines and substations in Florida. Although there is evidence of biological effects and a potential for adverse health effects on the public, there is no conclusive evidence that there is any danger or hazard to public health at the levels of electric and magnetic fields permitted by the standards set forth in this chapter.

(b) With respect to 60 hertz EMF, reasonable measures include requiring all new and modified transmission lines and substations to meet standards which are achievable through the use of available EMF reduction technology and measures, but in no case to allow any new or modified transmission line or substation, under normal conditions, to cause electric or magnetic field strengths greater than the highest operating voltage and the maximum current rating (MCR) values for existing transmission lines and substations.

(3) Basis of EMF Standards.

(a) Electric Field Strength. The electric field strength standards in this rule are based on the avoidance of the perception of an electric field at the edge of the right-of-way (ROW) or within a ROW; and on the reasonable measures and status quo cap criteria stated under paragraph (2), Findings, above. Compliance with the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), which applies to all electrical transmission lines and substations within Florida through rules administered by the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC), ensures that unsafe conditions will not exist in the vicinity of these facilities, but compliance with that code does not ensure that a person will not experience tingling sensation or mild, though harmless, shock within the ROW.

(b) Magnetic Field Strength. The magnetic field strength standards in this rule are based on the reasonable measures and status quo cap criteria stated under paragraph (2), Findings, above.

(c) Both Field Strengths. For both electric and magnetic fields, the standards apply to the maximum field strength that occurs, or is predicted to occur by the model prescribed in this rule (whichever is greater) under any normal operating mode (all operating conditions except emergency load conditions). Under most normal load conditions, the actual magnetic field strength at the edge of the ROW will be about one-half of the standards, which are to be met at the facilities maximum current rating (MCR).

(4) Categories of Electrical Facilities. This chapter sets forth two categories of electrical facilities for regulation in regards to the electric and magnetic fields associated with these facilities.

(a) The first category is for existing electrical facilities on which construction was commenced prior to March 21, 1989, and new distribution lines. These facilities will be allowed to operate in accordance with subsection 62-814.400(2), F.A.C.

(b) The second category is for new transmission lines and substations the construction of which commenced after March 21, 1989.

(5) Effect of Rule. The effect of this chapter is to establish requirements to reasonably protect the public health and welfare from electric and magnetic fields associated with electrical transmission lines, distribution lines and substations.

Specific Authority 403.061(7), 403.523(1) FS. Law Implemented 403.061(30), 403.523(14) FS. History–New 3-21-89, Amended 1-7-93, Formerly 17-274.100, 17-814.100, Amended 6-1-08.