Which equipement including household appliances and tools are safe?

Equipements

Your device has been built to be protected against interference by most electrical appliances. The following are safe to operate if they are in good operating condition and properly grounded (if required):

  • microwave ovens,

  • televisions, AM/FM radios, video cameras, VCRs, and their remote controls,

  • garage door openers,

  • countertop appliances, such as toasters, blenders, food processors, electric knives, electric can openers, etc.

  • hand-held appliances, such as hair dryers, shavers, curling irons, etc.

  • major appliances, such as washers, dryers, electric stoves, refrigerators and freezers, dishwashers, etc

  • electric blankets and heating pads,

  • remote-controlled transmitters for toy cars and airplanes.


Other equipment that is safe to operate or use if in good operating condition and properly grounded:

  • personal computers and printers,

  • electric typewriters, fax machines, and copy machines,

  • machine shop tools, such as electric drills, circular saws, table saws, etc. Keep all tools at least 12 inches (30 cm) from your implant site, whether in chest or abdomen.

  • low-power radio transmitters, such as cordless telephones or walkie-talkies.


Also safe to use are:

  • spark-ignited internal combustion engines, such as those in lawn mowers, leaf-blowers, and automobiles (if your doctor has not restricted your right to drive)

  • battery-operated conveyances, such as golf carts or electric wheelchairs.


Equipment that may not be safe to use:

Cellular phones

    Digital cellular phones can cause EMI if they are very close (within 6 to 12 inches) to the device. The effect is temporary. To avoid interference:

  • Do not carry a cellular phone in a breast pocket on the side of the pulse generator, if it is implanted in your chest.

  • Do not carry a cellular phone on your belt if the pulse generator is implanted in your abdomen.

  • Hold the cellular phone to the ear on the opposite side of the pulse generator implant.


Security detectors

CAUTION: Security detectors may cause temporary interference with your device. Security detectors used in stores and libraries are unlikely to cause problems if you walk through the "gate" rapidly. Once you have walked through the gate, do not remain in its vicinity. If you are concerned, show your Device Identification Card and ask that the detector be turned off while you walk through. The security detectors (both walk-through and hand-held wands) used in airports and government buildings may temporarily interfere with your device.

The metal case of your pulse generator may set off security alarms. Present your Device Identification Card to the security personnel and request a hand search. It is important that security personnel avoid searching you with a hand-held wand.


Other equipment

The following may be sources of strong EMI. Keep them at least 24 inches (60 cm) away from your device:

  • stereo speakers in large stereo systems, large radios

  • strong magnets,

  • industrial equipment such as power generators and arc-resistance welders,

  • battery-powered cordless tools, such as drills, screwdrivers, etc.

  • antennas used for medium power radio transmitters, such as ham or CB radio, long-distance radio, or satellite telephones,

  • high-power loudspeakers (such as those found in public buildings).


Because of sparks or other EMI, stay at least 12 inches (30 cm) away from:

  • a running car engine (sparks can cause EMI and some alternators contain strong magnets),

  • electric motors, if running,

  • furnaces,

  • hot water heaters.

Do not use body-fat monitors designed for home use.


Keep away from:

  • any radar equipment,

  • large TV or radio transmission towers,

  • power lines carrying more than 100,000 volts.

 

Warning: This information should not be used as a substitute to consultation from a physician.
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