1) Link to Public Interest Letter supporting Isabelle's efforts:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/10Irz5r3nYIfLveAW3zlOkxOgWnXXv1g7a9hCLzN7qfA/edit?tab=t.0 

2) Link for Constituents to halt endpoint installation but allow access and installation of analogue meter only

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zUiTiJEzivMJAkOQDxmvR5il4coyHI-5ELWNUZD6LhI/edit?tab=t.0 

) Link for City of Ottawa Municipal bylaw analysis

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uOFtw6J8Gj5gOQpfmqGTjqNy1WJ7oP-UzHGWA9hCK9U/edit?tab=t.0 

RESOURCE MATERIAL

How do SMART meters compromise

privacy. LINK HERE

SMART Meters and Risk

of Harm for EMF

Individuals have reported various health symptoms they associate with the installation and operation of wireless smart meters. Surveys and studies have documented these self-reported symptoms, providing insight into the prevalence and types of health issues experienced. Below is an overview of reported symptoms, their occurrence rates, and references to the relevant studies:

1. Survey by Richard H. Conrad, Ph.D. (2013):

A survey conducted in the United States with 210 participants revealed the following prevalence of symptoms after smart meter installation:

  • Insomnia: 49% of respondents

  • Stress: 43%

  • Headaches: 40%

  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus): 38%

  • Heart problems: 26%

Environmental Health Trust

2. Case Series by Dr. Federica Lamech (2014):

In Victoria, Australia, a case series involving 92 individuals reported the following symptoms post smart meter installation:

  • Insomnia

  • Headaches

  • Tinnitus

  • Fatigue

  • Cognitive disturbances

  • Dysesthesias (abnormal sensations)

  • Dizziness

Dr. Lamech noted that only 8% of participants had prior electromagnetic hypersensitivity, suggesting that smart meters might have unique characteristics lowering the threshold for symptom development.

Environmental Health Trust

3. Survey by Ed Halteman, Ph.D. (2011):

A survey conducted in the United States with 318 respondents from 28 states reported the following symptoms after smart meter installation:

  • Sleep problems: 49% of respondents

  • Stress: 43%

  • Headaches: 40%

  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus): 38%

  • Heart problems: 26%

Environmental Health Trust

World Health Organization (WHO) Position:

The World Health Organization (WHO) has examined the scientific evidence regarding potential health effects from exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF EMF), such as those emitted by smart meters. Current research indicates that there are no established health effects from the low exposure to RF EMF from smart meters. However, the WHO acknowledges that some individuals report symptoms like headaches and sleep disturbances, which they attribute to RF EMF exposure. The WHO refers to this condition as Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS), noting that while the symptoms are real and can vary widely, there is no scientific basis to link EHS symptoms to EMF exposure. The WHO continues to support research in this area to provide more definitive conclusions.

ARPANSA

Conclusion:

While surveys and case studies have documented self-reported symptoms associated with smart meter exposure, comprehensive reviews by health authorities, including the WHO, have not established a causal relationship between low-level RF EMF exposure from smart meters and adverse health effects. Ongoing research is essential to further understand these concerns and provide clear guidance to the public.