AAMI has just released an updated technical information report to offer guidance on preventing electromagnetic interference, hoping to provide a template for a wireless and electromagnetic compatibility policy. The report, ANSI/AAMI TIR18: 2010, Guidance on Electromagnetic Compatibility of Medical Devices in Healthcare Facilities, was developed with clinical and biomedical engineers in mind. AAMI says the report will help these engineers assess the electromagnetic environment in their facilities and minimize EMI. It also provides some tips on ad-hoc testing of medical devices to determine their immunity to EMI.

One recommendation in the TIR is to designate an EMC/wireless coordinator to help manage medical devices for EMC. “The potential for EMI problems can be reduced through prepurchase assessment or evaluation of new devices and proper evaluation, maintenance, and management of existing devices,” the report says. For more information, visit AAMI.