Attempted service to microwave results in fatal electrocution
- Safety Flash
- Published on 3 July 2003
- Generated on 11 January 2026
- IMCA SF 08/03
- 2 minute read
An experienced electrician (12 years with the company) opened up a microwave in order to service it, in spite of dire warnings not to do so.
What happened?
A warning label, prominently displayed on the machine, clearly indicated the potential for high voltage as follows:
“Warning – High voltage and microwave energy. Do not remove any cover. Caution – Always disconnect the mains plug from the wall socket before servicing. The unit contains no user-serviceable parts. Refer servicing to authorised personnel. This unit contains dangerous voltages.”
He put a tester across the disconnected leads with the power on (several thousand volts). The current went to the ground through his body, via the ice-making machine next to where he was working – burn marks confirm this. The incident resulted in a fatality.
Our Member took the following action:
To address this incident, the company has issued the following instruction to its personnel:
“With immediate effect the on-site repair of domestic equipment which contains high voltage components is strictly prohibited (such equipment includes microwave ovens, television sets, PC monitors, electrical insect killers, etc). These types of equipment should be returned to an authorised vendor for repair.”
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.