Catering equipment in offices

This site outlines the University's standards in relation to the use of catering equipment e.g. refrigerators, kettles and microwaves in Offices and Common Rooms. The standards are dictated by safety and environmental considerations. It should be noted that the preparation and consumption of food is prohibited in all laboratories.

Permitted with Prior Approval

The following equipment is permitted with prior approval by the Director of Estate Management:

Microwave ovens (not combination ovens)

These may be used in offices, staff common rooms and kitchenettes provided the installation is approved in advance by the Director of Estate Management. Approval is required as power capacity is limited in some areas and circuits must be checked to ensure that overloading does not occur.

A member of staff in the relevant department/section must be nominated as responsible for the appliance and must ensure that:

• It has been tested in accordance with the University's Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) Policy
• It is cleaned regularly to ensure good hygiene
• It is installed in a location which does not present a hazard to those using the room.

Permitted items

The following items are permitted for use in offices, staff common rooms and kitchenettes without reference to the Estate Management Section.

• Kettles
• Coffee makers (except those incorporating pressure devices)
• Refrigerators

The items may be used provided that:

• The appliances have been tested in accordance with the University's Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) Policy
• The appliances are installed in a location which does not present a hazard to those using the room
• In the case of refrigerators, they are defrosted at regular intervals to maintain energy efficiency.

Not Permitted

The following items are not permitted except in regular catering outlets:

• Toasters
• Sandwich makers
• Electric ovens
• Microwave combination ovens

Or similar heat generating appliances.

All of the above can produce significant heat which could start a fire or cause injury. In addition, the cooking technique used can produce fumes which could activate the fire alarm system.

The University reserves the right to remove such appliances if found in non-residential buildings.