THE USE OF MEDICAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES WHEN DRIVING
Fact Sheet Number 10
Electronic and electrical devices may both emit electromagnetic waves and be affected by them. People who use medical electronic devices (such as pacemakers and neuro-simulators) when driving vehicles with electronic systems (such as electronic brakes, steering or accelerator) may be concerned that the two systems might adversely affect each other.
From January 1996, all new vehicles have had to comply with an EC Directive (called the Automotive Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 95/54/EC). Vehicles which are modified for use by disabled motorists will need to comply with this Directive from 1 October 2002 . Medical electronic devices have to meet a different Directive (called the Medical Devices Directive).
Both of these Directives require manufacturers to ensure that electrical and electronic equipment is unlikely to be affected by electromagnetic waves or to generate disturbances that could affect other sensitive equipment.
If you are concerned about driving with a medical electronic device, you are advised to contact:
• the manufacturer of your vehicle's electronic systems to ask whether these have been tested for electromagnetic compatibility; and
• the manufacturer of your medical electronic device to find out whether the company gives advice to people who drive vehicles with electronic systems such as those fitted in your vehicle.
For more information, please contact:
Ian Simmons
Transport Research Laboratory
Old Wokingham Road
Crowthorne
Berkshire
RG45 6AU
Tel: 01344 770912
Fax: 01344 770912
E-mail: isimmons@trl.co.uk
MARCH 2008