ANALYSIS AND NORMALIZATION OF PARAMETERS OF AIR IONIZATION, LOW-FREQUENCY SOUND AND ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS IN ROOMS WITH A LARGE NUMBER OF COMPUTERS AND EQUIPMENT

Abstract

Purpose. To carry out a comprehensive study of the dynamics and normalization of quantitative characteristics of harmful physical factors that are not perceived directly by the senses of users, in rooms and workplaces with a large number of computers and office equipment. This will allow developing measures to ensure regulatory working conditions for users of personal computer equipment.

Methods. Measurements of the concentration of positive and negative air ions, levels of low-frequency sound and infrasound, as well as the intensity of the electric and magnetic induction components of electromagnetic fields in rooms with a large number of computer equipment. Determination of the dynamics of the values ​​of physical factors of the environment in space and time, analysis of the negative impact of computer equipment and auxiliary devices to determine the conditions and means of their normalization.

Results. An assessment of ion generation by various models of copying equipment and modernized laser printers was carried out. It has been established that the concentration of ions formed can reach 1500 cm⁻³ for laser printers and 2800 cm⁻³ for inkjet printers. It was determined that at a distance of 1.0–1.5 m the concentration of air ions returns to the background level. It is shown that the operation of one system unit is the main above-normal factor during the operation of portable computers, since its electric fields with a strength of up to 9 kV/m lead to a decrease in the concentration of light air ions in the user's area (positive ions by approximately 100 cm⁻³, and negative ions by 200 cm⁻³). It was found that the difference between the sound levels registered on the “Lin” and “A” scales is up to 24 dB. This indicates a significant impact of infrasound on the body of users. It was found that modern monitors do not create electromagnetic fields, the intensity of which would exceed hygienically permissible limits. At the same time, system units generate electric fields of 18–22 V/m and magnetic fields of 220–245 nT, which border on the maximum permissible levels. It was found that uninterruptible power supplies and fluorescent lamps create magnetic fields of increased intensity - up to 2250 nT and 2300 nT, respectively. The spectral composition and amplitude of magnetic fields of external power supplies of laptops were studied.

Novelty. The features of the dynamics of the aeroionic composition of air in rooms with a large number of computer equipment, the amplitude-frequency characteristics of low-frequency sound and infrasound, and the features of the amplitude-frequency characteristics of electromagnetic fields were determined, which allowed us to provide recommendations for their normalization and maintenance within the regulatory parameters.

Practical significance. To normalize the concentration of air ions in workplaces, it is necessary to introduce artificial air ionization systems. To reduce the significant impact of infrasound and low-frequency sound on the user's body, it is recommended to use membrane sound-absorbing screens tuned to their resonant frequencies. justifies the need to introduce systems for reducing the intensity of electrostatic fields in workplaces. To protect against the effects of electromagnetic fields of the wide frequency range, the use of developed and patented materials is recommended.