Portable Electric Heaters Can Make Your Facility a Hot Spot

With cooler weather ahead, be aware that portable electric heaters (space heaters) could be a source of ignition, resulting in fires or other unsafe conditions. Ideally, avoid using portable heaters. If they aren’t in use, they can’t cause trouble.

A common scenario involving space heater fires is equipment malfunction in an office setting. For instance, a company receptionist sat near the front door, and a cold blast of air rushed in when the door opened. The business allowed the receptionist to use a space heater. One evening, after everyone left, a fire started. The fire investigation determined the space heater was the cause. The receptionist believed the heater was off. However, the 15-year-old space heater, brought from home by the receptionist, may have malfunctioned and caused the fire.

If areas of your building need extra heat for personal comfort, equipment, or processes, try to find a permanent solution before turning to portable heaters. Contact a qualified HVAC contractor for recommendations. They may be able to install an additional permanent heater, install a programmable thermostat that can raise the temperature before workers arrive, or recommend a portable option that best suits your needs.  

If you allow employees to use space heaters, require heaters with automatic safety devices and the UL marking to ensure they pass established quality and safety standards. Inspect every portable space heater in use at your facility and consider applying an approved sticker so you know if anyone brings in a heater without your knowledge. Make it everyone’s responsibility to unplug heaters left in use at the end of the day. 

Establish formal policies about heater use. Some rules to consider are:

1. A responsible person must be near the heater when plugged in.
2. Plug heaters directly into a wall outlet, not extension cords or power strips.
3. Do not run cords across walkways, through ceiling tiles or walls, under rugs or mats, or near rolling chairs that could damage the cord.
4. Unplug all heaters when not in use. Confiscate any unattended heaters left plugged in.
5. Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from combustible material or follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, whichever is greater.
6. Read the instructions and understand the manufacturer's expectations for use.

Some companies ban heaters but allow office employees to bring a small heated blanket. Those drawing less than 500 watts equipped with an automatic shutoff pose less risk than a space heater.

Portable electric heaters are a convenient way to provide warmth but should be used safely and cautiously. By following these safety tips, selecting the right equipment, and ensuring compliance with policies, you can significantly reduce the fire risk in your facility.

If you need more information on the proper use of portable electric heaters, contact your Acuity Loss Control Representative.