Body Voltage

What Is Body Voltage? 

Body Voltage measurement is a method used to assess the amount of alternating current (AC) electric field exposure, on the human body. It’s important to understand that this is not a direct measurement of the ambient electric fields present in the environment. Instead, it provides an indication of how those fields interact with and impact the human body, perhaps offering a more biologically relevant perspective on exposure.

This measurement approach was developed by the Building Biology Institute, primarily as an alternative to traditional methods used for measuring AC electric fields in a space. It focuses on the body’s voltage potential in response to the surrounding AC electric fields, particularly those emitted by building wiring, appliances, and other electrical infrastructure.

The procedure involves measuring the voltage difference between the body and a grounded reference point. Typically, the person being tested holds a metallic hand probe connected to a specialized meter. This meter is simultaneously connected to a ground point, ideally a metal grounding rod inserted directly into the earth. While some practitioners may use a building’s internal ground connection—such as the ground slot of an electrical outlet—this is considered a less accurate alternative due to potential electrical interference.

Measurements are most meaningful when taken in sleeping areas, as this is when the body is most vulnerable to prolonged exposure during rest and recovery. The testing process generally follows three steps:

1. Measure the initial body voltage to establish a baseline exposure level.
2. Reduce or eliminate sources of AC electric fields (e.g., turning off breakers, unplugging devices, or implementing shielding solutions).
3. Re-measure to confirm that the mitigation strategies have successfully reduced the body’s exposure.

SLT's Top Body Voltage Meter Kits

NEW EM3 Featuring a Body Voltage Meter

Buy Now

Body Voltage Meter Features:  

AC Electric Fields from live electrical wires are attracted to the human body. This test kit will indicate the level of AC voltage on the body from the surroundings. Determining exposure levels will complement measurements of an AC Electric Field Meter.

• Measures the amount of AC voltage attached to the human body from the following:
• Electrical wires hidden in the ceilings, walls and floors
• Overhead power lines
• Power outlets
• Extension Cords
• Power bars
• Appliance power cables etc.
• Typically used in sleeping areas to determine what circuit breakers require a demand switch
• For precise body voltage measurements in millivolts
• Complies with Bau-Biologie measurement standards
• Detailed Body Voltage measuring instructions included
• Complete with a basic body voltage meter, a hand probe, ground cable, and a few other accessories