Adverse health effects with industrial wind turbines and the need for vigilance

Download Health Survey Abstract, Results and Responses

NOTE: The number of people in Ontario reporting adverse health affects due to industrial wind turbines continues to rise. The first Wind Concerns Ontario community-based self reporting survey was made public on April 22, 2009 by Dr. Robert McMurtry at the Standing Committee for the Green Energy Act. The new total is now 86 which is a disturbing 62% increase from 53 as reported earlier this year.

Methodology:

•This is a community-based survey; members of the community were encouraged to respond to a contact flyer. It’s a self-reporting survey which is a valid approach.
•This survey reproduces the work of U.K. physician, Dr. Amanda Harry (2007).
•There were no restrictions placed on distribution or access to the survey. As a result, hard copy and electronic copies were sent on request. Standard protocal was used to protect confidentiality and data integrity.
•Victims are self-reporting. This follows the principle of Health Canada’s Canada Vigilance.
•Distribution started the end of March, 2009 and within 6 weeks, 76 responses were received with 53 reporting adverse health effects.
•A cover page was sent with the surveys giving instructions and identifying exclusions:
◦If more than 1 adult in the home is affected please have each adult fill out a separate questionnaire.
◦This questionnaire may be filled out by a person 18 years of age or older who is fluent in English.
◦This questionnaire will NOT be used by anyone with any cognitive impairment
•Some requested surveys online and there were no restrictions regarding distribution.
•Surveys were returned to designated address.
•There are 585 operating turbines across Ontario. The wind turbine complexes implicated include:
◦Melancthon Phase 1 and 2, Canadian Hydro Wind Developers, Shelburne,
◦Kingsbridge 1 Wind Power, Goderich,
◦Kruger Energy Port Alma,
◦Ripley Wind Power, Ripley,
◦Enbridge Ontario Wind Farm, Kincardine
◦Erie Shores Wind Farm, Port Burwell.
•The reports of symptoms are consistent with the work of Dr. Amanda Harry, U.K., Dr. Nina Pierpont, U.S.A. and Dr. Michael Nissenbaum, U.S.A.
•Reports of health problems are still coming in. The survey will be ongoing and results will be updated periodically.
If you have not yet received a survey and live nearby an existing windfarm please contact us and we will ensure you are provided with one.

Dr. R. McMurtry’s Deputation to GEA Standing Committee (click here)