Portable space heaters can pose a major workplace fire safety hazard. Use of unapproved or unsafe space heaters – or use of space heaters in an inappropriate or unsafe manner - presents a significant fire risk. They are nice to have for extra warmth, but they can cause burns and fires if not used properly.
Each year, many serious fires result from the improper use of these heaters. Because of their mobility, these stoves pose a hazard when placed near combustible materials or where they can block a means of egress. Portable Electric Heaters (Section 11.5. 3).
When choosing a portable space heater to use in the workplace, there are a few requirements that must be considered: Space heaters must be approved by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), such as Underwriters Laboratory, Inc. (UL). Those not approved, should not be used.
Non-business related small appliances, such as space heaters, are not permitted in the office unless approved by management. Re-locatable power taps (power strips) can be used in conjunction with small appliances if listed and labeled for such use.
Dry Air: Space heaters can reduce humidity levels in a room, leading to dry skin, irritated sinuses, and other respiratory issues. Overheating: Many space heaters can overheat if left on for extended periods, which can damage the unit or create a fire risk.
Use of space heaters should not be allowed unless supervisor or management approval is provided prior to use.
Vented and Unvented Combustion Small Space Heaters
They may also bring unwanted nitrogen oxide into the home; nitrogen oxide can cause asthma and other respiratory problems. These heaters can also introduce water vapor into the home, which can result in mold and other structural damage.
Heaters must be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing and rugs. Locate space heaters out of high traffic areas and doorways where they may pose a tripping hazard.
Cal/OSHA's Heat Illness Prevention in Indoor Places of Employment regulation applies to most indoor workplaces, such as restaurants, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities. For indoor workplaces where the temperature reaches 82 degrees Fahrenheit, employers must take steps to protect workers from heat illness.
While it's not recommended to leave any space heater on if you're not monitoring it, oil-filled, radiant space heaters are considered safer than ceramic convection (hot air) types, according to Roberson.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure that you know how to use it properly. Never leave the space heater unattended while it is running.
Other sources of heat
Schiavon suggests trying an electric blanket or heated foot warmer. These warming devices are generally more energy efficient and likely safer than space heaters, he said.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, space heaters are involved in more than a thousand home fires every year.
The heating element of the heater is made up of an alloy which has very high resistance. So, when current flows through the heating element, it becomes too hot and glows red due to the heating effect of current. But the resistance of cord which is usually of copper or aluminium is very low so it does not glow.
There are no federal workplace safety rules that prohibit portable electric space heaters in the workplace. OSHA rules do require that electrical equipment must be used according to manufacturer specifications on the unit's label and in the user manual.
Question: California regulations set the dosimeter threshold level at 80 dBA for hearing conservation and 90 dBA for compliance.
According to the new standards, all indoor places of employment where the temperature reaches 82 degrees Fahrenheit or above must comply with regulations around access to water, cool-down areas, acclimatization, training, and more.
Heat Standards in Specific States
The following states have standards for heat exposure: California. California's Heat Illness Prevention Standard requires employers to provide training, water, shade, and planning. A temperature of 80°F triggers the requirements. See CalOSHA's website.
While there is much debate about this topic, the general, expert consensus is a resounding “no” — and you should never leave it running overnight. “No, it's absolutely not safe to use a space heater at night,” states Glenn Gault, CEO at Gault Heating & Cooling.
Most properties have guidelines that restrict the use of open-flame appliances due to their high risks. The restrictions are meant to protect other tenants and the property.
During the Day: It's safe to leave your heater on for 6-8 hours if you're in the room.
Portable heaters can cause fires if they are placed too close to combustible materials, such as drapes, furniture or bedding, so make sure to place them at least three feet away from these materials.
Since CO has no odor, color or taste, it cannot be detected by our senses. This means that dangerous concentrations of the gas can build up indoors and humans have no way to detect the problem until they become ill.
Overusing the heater or using an oversized heater can result in elevated levels of carbon monoxide or nitrogen dioxide fumes in the air. These fumes can cause cold or flu-like symptoms, headaches, and eye, nose and throat irritation.