AS/NZS 60335.2.25 Explained
Last updated: October 2026
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Safety and testing of microwave ovens
AS/NZS 60335.2.25 sets out particular safety requirements for microwave ovens, including requirements associated with microwave energy and the safe operation of the appliance.
For MegaTest, the appliance electrical testing division of NZ Test Group, this standard is particularly relevant because a microwave requires more than the normal electrical safety checks carried out on many workplace appliances.
What Does AS/NZS 60335.2.25 Cover?
AS/NZS 60335.2.25 deals specifically with the safety of microwave ovens.
It works alongside the broader electrical appliance safety requirements and addresses hazards particular to microwave ovens, including the containment of microwave energy.
This is why testing a microwave involves considering both its electrical safety and its microwave leakage.
Why Are Microwave Ovens Different From Other Appliances?
A microwave oven uses microwave energy to heat food.
The appliance is designed so this energy remains safely contained within the cooking cavity while it is operating.
Damage, deterioration or problems with the door, hinges, seals or interlocking mechanisms can affect the integrity of that containment.
For this reason, simply carrying out an electrical safety test does not provide a complete assessment of a microwave oven.
What Is Microwave Leakage Testing?
Microwave leakage testing measures microwave energy around the appliance while the oven is operating.
A suitable microwave leakage detector is used to check areas where leakage could potentially occur, particularly around the door and its sealing surfaces.
The measured leakage is then assessed against the applicable limits.
This is a specialised test that is additional to the normal electrical safety testing of the appliance.
What Is Checked During a Microwave Inspection?
The process begins with a thorough visual inspection.
Particular attention is given to the condition of the appliance, including the power cord and plug, enclosure, door, hinges, catches and sealing surfaces.
Any obvious physical damage or deterioration that could affect safe operation needs to be considered before further testing is undertaken.
What About the Door and Safety Interlocks?
The microwave door and its safety interlocks are critical parts of the appliance.
The interlock system is designed to prevent the microwave generator from operating when the door is open.
Damage, poor alignment or interference with the door or interlock mechanisms should therefore never be ignored.
A microwave with a damaged door or defective safety mechanism should be removed from service and appropriately assessed.
Is Normal Test & Tag Enough for a Microwave?
Not by itself.
AS/NZS 3760 provides the general framework for in-service electrical safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment.
However, a normal electrical Test & Tag does not measure microwave radiation leakage.
For microwave ovens, the electrical safety assessment and the microwave-specific checks perform different functions.
This is why MegaTest treats microwave testing as a specialised appliance inspection rather than simply attaching a standard Test & Tag label.
What Can Cause Microwave Leakage?
Potential problems can result from physical damage, deterioration or interference with components associated with the microwave cavity and door.
A microwave that has been dropped, struck or otherwise damaged deserves particular attention.
Visible damage around the door or sealing surfaces should not be ignored simply because the appliance still heats food normally.
Heating food successfully does not, by itself, establish that a microwave oven is safe.
What Happens if a Microwave Fails?
If a microwave fails an electrical safety test, leakage test or has a defect that makes continued use unsafe, it should be removed from service.
Depending on the nature of the problem, it may be suitable for assessment or repair by an appropriately qualified service technician.
It should not be returned to normal use until the problem has been appropriately addressed.
Where Does AS/NZS 60335.2.25 Fit With Other Standards?
AS/NZS 60335.2.25 deals specifically with safety requirements associated with microwave ovens.
AS/NZS 3760 provides the broader framework used for in-service electrical equipment inspection and testing.
When inspecting a microwave in the workplace, these requirements complement each other: the general electrical safety of the appliance needs to be considered alongside the hazards particular to microwave operation.
Need Help With Microwave Oven Testing?
MegaTest – Appliance Electrical Testing
MegaTest provides microwave oven testing alongside our wider electrical equipment inspection and testing solutions as part of NZ Test Group.
Our microwave inspections can include visual inspection, electrical safety testing and microwave leakage testing using appropriate test equipment.
If you're unsure whether the microwave ovens in your workplace have been appropriately checked, talk to our team.