it's quite elderly and hence the plastic probably perished (and maybe in an accelerated way due to the cycles of hot & cold).

the core of the construction is metal. So that should be fine for longer. But the other side is presumably also about to fall apart.

not actually moving it around but will need to figure out what to attach as a handle if/when that becomes necessary. Meanwhile its feet, keeping it stable, are very likely made of the same plastic.

there is no risk of burning.

it hasn't shown any sign of toppling over yet and the side handles do seem to be largely cosmetic.