Golden Design Saunas Safety Explained: EMF, VOCs, and Materials You Can Trust

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When investing in an infrared sauna, safety is just as important as performance. Customers today are increasingly informed and often ask detailed questions about EMF exposure, VOC emissions, and construction materials. Golden Design Saunas takes these concerns seriously by testing products in real-world conditions and selecting materials that support a healthier indoor environment.

This article answers the most common questions about ELF/EMF levels, VOC testing, and the use of adhesives and wood materials in Golden Design infrared sauna products—using verified data and transparent explanations.

ELF / EMF Emissions During Normal Operation

What are the measured ELF/EMF levels?

Golden Design infrared saunas utilize carbon FAR Infrared heater panels engineered to be near zero EMF. To verify safety, random testing is performed on sauna models in real-life operating environments, not just laboratory simulations.

Testing device used: Trifield EMF Meter Model TF2
Measurement distance: 1 inch and 2 inches from the heating panels
Recorded magnetic field readings:
- Below 3 milligauss (mG) at both distances

These readings fall well within commonly accepted low-exposure ranges and are considered extremely minimal, especially when compared to everyday household electronics.

📌 For transparency, Golden Design Saunas recommends the Trifield EMF Meter Model TF2 for consumers who wish to perform their own measurements. Many lower-cost EMF meters on the market lack proper calibration and accuracy.

Why Near-Zero EMF Matters

ELF (Extremely Low Frequency) EMF is a concern for some sauna users because infrared heaters rely on electricity. Golden Design’s carbon panel technology is designed to limit electromagnetic output at the source, reducing exposure rather than attempting to shield it after the fact.

This approach provides:

Lower ambient EMF levels inside the sauna
Minimal exposure even at very close proximity
Consistent readings across multiple test samples

VOC Emissions & Chemical Safety

Has the sauna been tested for VOC emissions at operating temperature?

Yes. Golden Design infrared sauna products have been tested for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) to ensure that materials do not release excessive chemical emissions during normal operation.

Measured VOC level: 18.57 mg/g

Read the VOC report

This confirms that Golden Design saunas meet expectations for low-emission indoor wellness products, especially important for enclosed spaces that operate at elevated temperatures.

VOC testing is critical because heat can amplify off-gassing. Testing at operating conditions ensures that what customers breathe during use reflects real-world performance—not just cold-material assumptions.

Materials & Adhesives Used in Construction

What materials are used in the sauna walls and panels?

Golden Design infrared saunas are constructed using Canadian Reforested Hemlock wood, selected for both performance and safety:

Naturally resistant to warping
No pesticides or chemical treatments
Low odor and suitable for heated environments

Hemlock is a preferred material in sauna construction because it remains stable under temperature changes while maintaining a clean, natural finish.

Are glues or adhesives used—and are they safe?

Yes, adhesives are used minimally and intentionally as part of the sauna’s tongue-and-groove panel construction.

Fastening method: Staples + non-toxic glue
Glue characteristics:
- Formaldehyde-free
- Low-VOC
- Used only where structurally necessary
Read the Glue Report

This design reduces the need for heavy composite materials or chemical-laden bonding agents.

Double Wall Construction & Exterior Finishes

Golden Design saunas feature double-wall (hollow interior) panel construction, which provides two important benefits:

Improved insulation, helping maintain consistent interior temperatures
Reduced heat transfer to the exterior panels

Because the outer walls remain cooler, Golden Design can safely apply:

Oil-based stains or
Clear coat finishes

➡️ These finishes are used only on the exterior panels, never inside the sauna where heat and skin contact occur.

What This Means for Customers

Golden Design Saunas are built with a focus on:

Near-zero EMF infrared heating
Verified low VOC emissions
Natural, untreated wood materials
Formaldehyde-free, non-toxic adhesives
Real-world testing, not theoretical estimates

This combination makes Golden Design infrared saunas a strong option for customers seeking a health-conscious, low-exposure wellness product without compromising performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are Golden Design saunas safe to use daily?
Yes. With near-zero EMF heaters, low VOC emissions, and natural materials, they are designed for regular use.

2. How close were EMF measurements taken?
Measurements were taken at 1 inch and 2 inches from the heater panels—closer than typical user proximity.

3. Can customers test EMF levels themselves?
Yes. Golden Design recommends the Trifield EMF Meter Model TF2 for accurate readings.

4. Does heat increase chemical emissions?
Heat can increase off-gassing, which is why Golden Design tests VOCs under operating conditions—not just at room temperature.

5. Is formaldehyde present in the sauna materials?
No. Adhesives used are formaldehyde-free and low-VOC.

6. Are finishes applied inside the sauna?
No. Any oil-based stain or clear coat is applied only to exterior panels.