In power grids, electricity is transmitted from power plants to substations, residential, and commercial facilities over power lines, which mainly run above ground. The electrical current that passes through power lines induces magnetic fields, which can then induce currents in nearby conductors. As the human body is a conductor of electricity, induced currents can excite human tissues. This may result in increased temperature, cancers, childhood leukemia, and nervous system disturbances, especially with prolonged exposure.

In this study, we measured magnetic field-strength values at different locations in Kingston, Jamaica. Using an electromagnetic field (EMF) meter, measurements were obtained at several sites across Kingston, including the perimeter of several Jamaica Public Service Co. Ltd. (JPSCo) substations, residential and commercial areas.The spot method was used to measure field values, with measurement points spaced 3.5–7 m apart.

The results obtained show that the highest average magnetic-field values were obtained in close proximity to substations operated by the JPSCo, and these values were more than two times the values obtained in other areas. Field values in residential areas were the lowest of those measured. For all of the locations measured, the values were within the threshold recommended by the International Commission for Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP)