Safety Topic of the Month: December 2024

Space Heater Safety  

A Space heater is a self-contained appliance, usually electric, for heating an enclosed room. Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fire deaths after cooking, with the majority of these fires reported during the months of November, December, January, and February of each year (NFPA Safety Tips, 2018). Use of any portable space heater in the Medical Center represents a high risk of fire if not an approved appliance and operated properly. It is important to know the safety tips before use is considered:

• Before purchasing a portable space heater, Facilities Management must be notified via work order or phone at 212-305-4357, option 3,to assess heating and ventilation in the area/s where space heater/s are being considered.
• Facilities Management will decide if the appropriate heating cannot be provided by standard building systems.
• Place the heater on a hard, level, and nonflammable surface. These appliances are intended to sit on the floor, not on a table.
• Keep the space heater at least 3 feet away from combustible materials, such as furniture, bedding, and curtains. A taller heater may need to be even further away.
• Do not use a heater in a workshop or garage near paint, gas cans, or matches.
• Unplug the heater when it is not in use by pulling the plug straight from the outlet. Check the cord for damage periodically, and do not use the heater if the cord is frayed or worn.
• Facilities Management will determine if safe and sufficient electrical power is available in the area(s) where the space heater(s) are being considered and communicate back to the department accordingly.
• If approved by Facilities Management, only portable space heaters with no exposed heating elements are permitted for use in the Medical Center meeting the following criteria:
• The unit must be UL rated (inspection tag intact) and have a grounded plug.
• Prohibited portable space heaters include fan forced heaters, quartz or ceramic type heaters and any other exposed heating element appliances.
• The heater must be plugged directly into wall outlets; extension cords may not be used unless specified in Owner’s Manual.
• Do not place a heater under a desk or in any other enclosed area.
• Turn off the heater when a room is unoccupied; the heater must never be left unattended.

For more information or questions about refrigerant compliance and safety, please speak with your supervisor or contact a member of the Campus Life and Regulatory Compliance team.