WHAT ARE MICROWAVES?

Microwaves are high frequency radio waves (radiofrequency fields) and, like visible radiation (light), are part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Microwaves are used primarily for TV broadcasting, radar for air and sea navigational aids, and telecommunications including mobile phones. They are also used in industry for processing materials, in medicine and in kitchens for cooking food.

Microwaves are reflected, transmitted or absorbed by materials in their path, in a similar manner to light. Metallic materials totally reflect microwaves while non-metallic materials such as glass and some plastics are mostly transparent to microwaves.

ARE MICROWAVE OVENS SAFE?

When used according to manufacturers' instructions, microwave ovens are safe and convenient for heating and cooking a variety of foods. However, several precautions need to be taken, specifically with regards to potential exposure to microwaves, thermal burns and food handling.

Microwave safety:

The design of microwave ovens ensures that the microwaves are contained within the oven and can only be present when the oven is switched on and the door is shut. Leakage around and through the glass door is limited by design to a level well below that recommended by international standards. However, microwave leakage could still occur around damaged, dirty or modified microwave ovens. It is therefore important that the oven is maintained in good condition. Users should check that the door closes properly and that the safety interlock devices, fitted to the door to prevent microwaves from being generated while it is open, work correctly. The door seals should be kept clean and there should be no visible signs of damage to the seals or the outer casing of the oven. If any faults are found or parts of the oven are damaged, it should not be used until it has been repaired by an appropriately qualified service engineer.

Microwave energy can be absorbed by the body and produce heat in exposed tissues. Organs with a poor blood supply and temperature control, such as the eye, or temperature-sensitive tissue have a higher risk of heat damage.

The practice of physical inspection goes a long way to ensuring that the incidence of leakage above recommended allowances is kept low, however the only sure way of checking functionality is to measure for potential leakage using a calibrated Instrument capable of detecting microwave frequncies at low levels.

Combining these two practices is a reliable method of maintenance and gives piece of mind to employers and employees and demonstrates compliance to Electricity at Work Act and Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations. 

EEMS Ltd can provide effective testing using calibrated equipment to ensure that your microwave oven meets current standards:

BS EN 60335-2-25: Domestic Microwave Ovens

BS EN 60335-2-90: Commercial microwave Ovens

Within the standards and guidance documents, microwave oven leakage should not exceed 5mW/sq cm when measured at a distance of 50mm or more from the exterior surface of the appliance under test. EEMS Ltd use accurate and reliable test equipment to verify that microwave ovens meet these standards.

EEMS will also perform functional power testing to ensure that the microwave oven is performing at its maximum power level.

Contact EEMS Ltd to obtain a competitive quote by clicking on the email link here or by calling 07810 805 288