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Description
The occupational health and safety framework identifies workers with an active implantable medical device (AIMD), such as a pacemaker (PM) or an implantable defibrillator (ICD), as a particularly sensitive risk group that must be protected against the dangers caused by electromagnetic field (EMF). This study evaluates the potential electromagnetic interference (EMI) posed by two emerging technologies, 5G systems and wireless power transfer (WPT) chargers, using the risk assessment procedure outlined in the EN 50527-2-1 standard. In vitro experiments were conducted using a human-shaped phantom and explanted ICDs to replicate worst-case exposure scenarios. For 5G systems, both continuous wave and pulse-modulated signals in uplink and downlink configurations were tested across key frequency bands (736 MHz and 3680 MHz). Results indicate no EMI events, confirming that 5G technology is unlikely to interfere with AIMD function. For WPT systems, a Helmholtz coil was used to generate uniform magnetic fields at 85 kHz. EMI events were observed only at magnetic field intensities exceeding 50 μT, with high-voltage therapies triggered exclusively at 100 μT. Modulated signals were more disruptive than continuous ones, highlighting the susceptibility of AIMDs to certain modulation schemes. The findings suggest that existing safety precautions for AIMD users, such as maintaining a 15 cm distance from 5G sources, remain effective. For WPT systems, the voluntary 15 μT limit recommended by standards like SAE J2954 provides a sufficient safety margin for AIMD users in realistic scenarios. These results support the continued safe adoption of 5G and WPT technologies in occupational and public environments.
