Does OSHA require that microwaves or the door to a room with a microwave be posted with a sign to warn employees with pacemakers?

OSHA does not specifically require employers to post a pacemaker warning sign on or near a microwave oven or at the entrance of a room or building that contains a microwave oven. However, if having the microwave poses a pacemaker hazard, OSHA can turn to 1910.145, which calls for signs when hazards are such that failure to designate them may lead to injury of workers or the public. OSHA may turn to the General Duty Clause of the OSH Act.

Microwaves may interfere with the workings of pacemakers. This is discussed further on the Food and Drug Administration website. However, the Food and Drug Administration also says, “At one time there was concern that radiation leakage from microwave ovens could interfere with certain electronic cardiac pacemakers. Similar concerns were raised about pacemaker interference from electric shavers, auto ignition systems, and other electronic products. While FDA does not specifically require microwave ovens to carry warnings for people with pacemakers, this problem has largely been resolved as today’s pacemakers are designed to shield against such electrical interference. However, patients with pacemakers are encouraged to consult their physicians if they have concerns.”