Is it dangerous to sit next to a microwave?

The short answer is, not really. Injuries from microwave radiation are very rare, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Electromagnetic radiation takes different forms, including radio waves, visible light, X-rays and gamma-rays.

How far should you sit from a microwave?

GO THE DISTANCE. This is both the easiest and most effective method to protect yourself from unwanted radiation. Our measurements show that the energy dissipates with distance, so put some between yourself and a running microwave — I like to stand 10–15 feet away to be safe. Limit your exposure by walking away.

How much exposure to microwave is dangerous?

A Federal standard (21 CFR 1030.10) limits the amount of microwaves that can leak from an oven throughout its lifetime to 5 milliwatts (mW) of microwave radiation per square centimeter at approximately 2 inches from the oven surface. This limit is far below the level known to harm people.

Can microwave radiation go through walls?

Microwaves can pass through most walls, which is a great advantage, since otherwise mobile phones would not work indoors.

How much space do I need around my microwave?

Countertop Models: 3″ of clearance on both sides and the top. 1″ clearance in the rear. The front edge of the microwave (measured at door) should sit at least 3″ or more back on the counter or shelf to avoid accidental tipping.

Is it safe to use a microwave oven?

Injuries from microwave radiation are very rare, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, there are certain precautions you can take to keep yourself safe when using a microwave oven. Microwaves are a type of electromagnetic radiation, or waves of energy that move through space, according to the FDA.

What is the maximum amount of radiation from a microwave oven?

A Federal standard (21 CFR 1030.10) limits the amount of microwaves that can leak from an oven throughout its lifetime to 5 milliwatts (mW) of microwave radiation per square centimeter at approximately 2 inches from the oven surface. This limit is far below the level known to harm people.

How far should you be away from a microwave while cooking?

The more distance the better. As a general rule try to stay at least 5-10 feet away from your microwave while its running. Some microwaves may have faulty doors, which can leak radiation as well and be very unsafe.

Is it possible to get radiation poisoning from a microwave?

That said, there have been very rare instances of radiation injury due to unusual circumstances or improper servicing. In general, microwave oven radiation injuries are caused by exposure to large amounts of microwave radiation leaking through openings such as gaps in the microwave oven seals.