Do you need to PAT test a microwave? Here’s what you need to know.
If you have a microwave in the office kitchen, it’s essential to keep it safe.
A microwave in poor condition won’t heat things as well as it should, which can lead to cold and uncooked food. In addition, a damaged microwave may stop working or cause arcing, which can be a safety risk.
In this article, we’re going to look at whether you need to PAT test a microwave, as well as some handy hints to help keep it safe and fully functional.
Do I have to PAT test a microwave?
Many people think you have to have PAT testing done by law in the workplace, but this isn’t true.
However, health & safety regulations advise that businesses must make sure all electrical equipment in the workplace is kept in a safe condition.
PAT testing is the most effective way to do this.
So to answer the question, ‘do I have to get my microwave PAT tested?’ – it’s not a legal requirement, but it’s one of the best ways to make sure your microwave meets health and safety guidelines.
More information about PAT testing in the workplace
How often should I PAT test a microwave?
It depends on the environment your microwave is kept in. For example, if you have a kitchen in a factory or construction site, we’d recommend testing your electrical equipment more often as dust and other debris is more likely to damage your equipment.
We recommend carrying out a risk assessment to be sure.
Our top tips for keeping your microwave safe
1. Keep the inside of your microwave clean
Regularly cleaning the inside of your microwave not only gets rid of bad smells and prevents corrosion but ensures your food heats up more evenly.
Food and liquid left in the microwave continue to cook, absorbing the energy that should be heating your lunch.
Encourage people to clean up any food and drink spills each time they use the microwave and do a full wipe-down once a week.
Covering food while it is cooking can help reduce the risk of splattering.
2. Avoid running the microwave when it is empty
When your microwave has nothing in it, the energy created is absorbed back into the microwave, damaging the components. Avoid using your microwave as a timer.
Similarly, microwaving dry foods with low water levels can damage your microwave in the same way.
3. Take care closing the microwave door
Slamming the door of your microwave or pulling it open without turning off the power can cause damage over time. Microwave doors are very delicate in design and causing damage may mean the microwave no longer functions as it should.
If the door of the microwave does not close correctly or is bent or warped, do not use it.
4. Don’t microwave anything too heavy
All microwaves have a weight limit. Microwaving anything too large, heavy, or abnormally shaped can damage the turntable motor and other components, as well as mean food isn’t cooked all the way through.
