Himachal

Microwave ovens provide a convenient way to thaw, cook, and reheat food. They are now common in most Canadian homes and restaurants, and are also found in many commercial and industrial establishments.

Microwaves are a form of radiofrequency electromagnetic energy. When they penetrate food, they cause water molecules in the food to rotate. The rotation causes friction between the molecules, resulting in a rapid rise in temperature. This is why the cooking time with a microwave oven is much shorter than with a conventional oven.

Microwaves should not be confused with X-rays or other intense forms of energy. The microwaves generated by a microwave oven do not cause food or the oven itself to become radioactive. When you shut the oven off, the microwaves disappear. They do not remain in either the food or the oven.

Some microwave energy may leak from your oven while you are using it, but this would pose no known health risks, as long as the oven is properly maintained.

Proper maintenance is the key to keeping microwave leakage levels within acceptable limits. The amount of leakage may go up if the oven’s door or seal is damaged, or if there is a build-up of dirt around the seal. It is also important to keep all of the hinges and latches in good working order.

Minimizing Your Risks:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating procedures and safety precautions.
• Hire qualified service technicians for all adjustments and repairs.
• Do not use the oven if the door does not close, or is bent, warped or damaged in any way.
• Do not disable or tamper with the oven’s safety interlocks.
• Never insert any object through any opening in the oven or around the door seal.
• Always keep the oven door and seal clean; do not use abrasive cleansers.
• Take a good look at your microwave oven. If there is noticeable damage to the door or door hinges, latches or screen, there may be excessive leakage. Contact the manufacturer, distributor, or a qualified service technician to have the oven professionally inspected.