What is a Pacemaker Survey?

For an industrial safety engineer, a pacemaker survey (also known as a cardiac device electromagnetic safety assessment) is a specialized evaluation conducted to identify and assess electromagnetic (EM) fields in a workplace that may interfere with implantable cardiac devices such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs).

Definition

A pacemaker survey is an electromagnetic field radiation assessment that identifies EMF sources that may exceed exposure thresholds known to interfere with cardiac implants, evaluates worker safety, and ensures compliance with regulatory and manufacturer guidelines.

Purpose of the Survey

Protect employees with cardiac implants from EMF-induced device malfunction.
Identify and map electromagnetic field sources that exceed safe exposure limits.
Document compliance with applicable OSHA, IEEE C95.1, IEC 60601-1-2, or AAMI PC69 recommendations.
Support reasonable accommodation policies under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) for workers with implants.

Risks Being Assessed

Implantable cardiac devices are vulnerable to:

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) from:

AC magnetic fields (power lines, motors, welding equipment).
Radiofrequency (RF) fields (radio transmitters, walkie-talkies, induction heaters).
Static magnetic fields (MRI machines, permanent magnets).
Transient electric fields (e.g., electrostatic discharge, switching).

Resulting Hazards:

Inhibition of pacing or unintentional pacing.
Inappropriate shock delivery (for ICDs).
Device reset or malfunction.

Tools and Equipment Used

Electric and Magnetic Field Meters (e.g., Narda ELT-400, Wavecontrol SMP3)
RF Spectrum Analyzers
Gaussmeters (for static magnetic fields and modulating magnetic fields).
Personal EMF dosimeters for ongoing employee monitoring.
Compliance thresholds based on:

Manufacturer EMF immunity specifications (e.g., Medtronic, Abbott, Boston Scientific).
IEEE C95.1 exposure limits.
ISO/TS 10974 for MR conditional devices (when relevant).

Key Survey Steps

Employee Disclosure and Device Identification

Voluntary disclosure of implant type and manufacturer..
Collection of device model numbers to determine EMF susceptibility.
Site Assessment

Map all potential sources of EM fields in work zones.
Evaluate spatial field strengths at varying distances.
Field Measurement and Mapping
Measure AC and RF field strengths at body height.
Compared to manufacturer-specific interference thresholds.
Exposure Risk Analysis
Determine "safe approach distances" or EMF exclusion zones.
Identify transient risks (e.g., during equipment startup/shutdown)
Recommendations and Mitigations.
Administrative controls (training, signage, restricted access).
Engineering controls (shielding, equipment relocation).
PPE guidance (if applicable, such as RF shielding vests).
Accommodation guidance per HR and EHS policies.

Deliverables

Detailed survey report with:

Measured field levels.
Risk zones with annotated maps.
Equipment list and operating frequencies.
Regulatory and manufacturer references.
Recommendations for exposure control.

EMF exclusion zone signage plans.
Return-to-work guidance if needed.

When Is a Pacemaker Survey Required?

New hire with a cardiac implant.
Equipment changes or plant renovations.
After a near-miss or suspected interference incident.
Periodic review is part of an industrial electromagnetic safety program.