Space Heater Safety

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http://electricalsafety.lbl.gov/2014/12/02/electric-space-heater-safety/

DON’T !

• Place space heaters near ignitable materials
• Use extension cords or power strips with space heaters
• Leave space heaters on when you leave your office

Space heaters must be listed by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL).

DO !

• Use only NRTL-listed space heaters
• Use only grounded (three-prong plug) or double-insulated space heaters
• Use only space heaters with automatic shut off

ESM Sections 5.6.5, 5.10.1, 5.13.9; PUB-3000, Chapter 12, Work Process I

Space heaters must be plugged directly into a wall outlet

11/17/2022

Field Guide 22

Revision 4.11

Portable heating devices may only be used when there is no chance of injury or fire occurring from their use. This applies to both Lab–provided and personally owned devices used within LBNL spaces on and off site.

You might feel the need to use a portable electric space heater in your work area. We try to avoid the use of space heaters due to power consumption and fire safety concerns. However, if you must use a space heater, consider the following safety requirements.

Remember the 3 foot rule!

Space heaters should be placed on sturdy level surfaces, away from combustible materials such as papers, magazines, drapes, cubicles and office furniture. Do not use around flammable vapors, dusts, or materials

NRTL-Listed space heaters will have either automatic shut off when tipped over, or overheat protection. Automatic shut off switches should be tested annually by tilting the heater while on, and verifying the unit turns off when tipped.

Space heaters should be kept clean, with the cords in good condition, not damaged or frayed.

Always read the manufacturers instructions for the unit before using and read / follow instructions on the unit

Usage

• Always read and follow manufacturers’ operating instructions before operating the heater.
• Always TURN OFF the heater or UNPLUG it when you leave the office for an extended period (i.e., meeting, lunch, and at the end of the day).
• Do not try to use a portable space heater to heat the entire suite or floor. Portable electric heaters are designed for use as supplemental heat for a single room or small area. They should provide temporary heat only.
• Contact the Building Manager to have the building heating system inspected and adjusted if the heating requirement is permanent, or if multiple persons within the office suite or space are using electric portable space heaters to supplement the heat in the same area.
• Contact the Building Manager in the event a space heater causes the circuit breaker to trip. This indicates that the circuit is being overloaded.

Placement

• Do not plug a heater into extension cords or plug strips. It must be plugged into a permanent wall outlet. If a new wall outlet is needed, contact the Building Manager to have a wall outlet installed.
• Place the heater on a level and sturdy surface.
• Do not use where flammable or explosive vapors, dusts, or toxic materials may be present.
• Do not place heater near combustible materials such as papers, magazines, drapes, or office furniture. Follow manufacturer guidelines for placement of the heater. If no manufacturer guidelines are present, provide at least 36 inches clearance in front of the heater and 18 inches from the sides and back.
• Do not use heaters in or near wet areas such as locker/shower rooms.
• Do not place a heater in an exit way where the cord can become a tripping hazard.
• Portable heaters may interfere with the proper control of building HVAC systems. Avoid placing them near thermostats.
• Never run a power cord under the carpet or floor mat.