4. Effects on health
To date no specific studies of the effect of induction hobs on health have been carried out. Medium-frequency magnetic fields of the kind generated by induction hobs can penetrate the human body, where they can induce electrical fields and currents. Very strong currents can possibly excite nerves of the central nervous system. The exposure limits of ICNIRP allow only currents, which are 50 times smaller than the threshold for stimulation of the central nervous system [5]. Acute effects can be prevented by compliance with the ICNIRP recommended threshold. You can ensure compliance with the ICNIRP recommended threshold by observing the tips listed under "Health risks and prevention". According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is no compelling evidence of medium-frequency magnetic fields having long-term effects on health. [6]. However, it notes that few studies investigating this frequency range have been published. It is not possible to draw any conclusions from the small number of animal studies that have been carried out in the medium-frequency range. The human studies, most of which have looked at the risks posed by computer monitors, have not identified any impact on health. The extent to which these results can be extrapolated to induction hobs is not clear, since these appliances are different in terms of both the radiation which they emit and the size of the magnetic fields.
Effect on implanted electronic devices
Some studies have looked at the way induction hobs affect implanted electronic devices [7-10]. The possibility cannot be excluded that stray magnetic fields generated by induction hobs may affect implanted electronic devices at short range; this has been demonstrated for unipolar cardiac pacemakers [10]. Also the effect of leakage current on unipolar cardiac pacemakers has to be borne in mind. People with unipolar pacemakers are advised not to touch pans for extended periods and not to use metal spoons for cooking [7]. It is vital for people with implanted electronic devices to read the safety advice provided by the manufacturer and talk to their doctor before using an induction hob. The likelihood of the implanted device being affected adversely is very low if the induction hob is used correctly.