Space Heater Safety Topic

Overview of portable space heaters including their risks and CPSC loss prevention tips.

General

Space heaters and other similar heating devices are commonly used in many workplaces as an additional source of warmth in the winter months. Space heaters pose a higher risk of igniting a potential fire than other standard central heating devices/systems. Because space heaters vary significantly in type, size, and design, they also present a greater potential for human error. Employers and employees alike should be cognizant of the manufacturer’s individual instructions for installation, fueling, operation, and maintenance.

Risks

The utilization of space heaters in an industrial-type setting also poses additional risks- fire being chief among them. To decrease the risk of potential fire – space heaters should always be kept away from flammable items such as chemicals or clothing. To prevent accidental electrocutions, space heaters and other devices should never be used in an area where water is present (this includes outside settings where rain is prominent). To further ensure the safety of…