In the past year, there has been a rise of fires caused by microwaves. Advice is available regarding the electrical safety of these types of devices in staff areas, however, we have simplified into four areas.

1. Ensure that the microwave is being used and stored in an approved fire protected room i.e. kitchen hub.

You will have had the Regional Health & Fire Safety Advisor from CHP visit your site and check the building whilst completing a Fire Risk Assessment. This visit is not to annoy you or make life difficult, in fact, we are here to make sure your workplace is safe for all users, staff as well as patients, at all times.

2. Make sure the equipment is not faulty and is checked on a regular basis.

Microwave cookers are classed as portable electrical equipment. They fall under ‘The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989’ guidance which requires that any electrical equipment that has the potential to cause injury is maintained in a safe condition. This is usually done by having the microwave Portable Appliance Tested (PAT). Yes, we know that PAT is not a legal requirement, but it is best practice, and the microwave will be checked and tested to ensure it is safe to use.

3. Make sure you have firefighting equipment in the room.

This vital equipment will ensure that, if necessary, you are able to get out if the microwave does catch fire and could hinder your escape from the room.

4. Never leave the microwave unsupervised

It will help if you display a sign up to let everyone know. CHP’s Health and Safety team can provide one of these, as well as a ‘dos and don’ts’ poster if needed.

Please feel free to speak to your ORM regards any questions or concerns you may have as they might be able to come up with a solution. If not, then they can ask the right people for you.