Geography / All / Source: / West Chester University
SPACE HEATER SAFETY CHECKLIST
BENEFITS
In the winter, it’s generally acceptable to let workers exposed to the risk of cold stress use portable space heaters to stay warm and avoid hypothermia and other cold stress related illnesses. But portable heaters pose their own hazards, such as burns and carbon monoxide poisoning. So it’s important that you ensure that this equipment is safe to use and that workers use it properly.
HOW TO USE THE TOOL
Adapt this checklist for your operations, OHS program and the requirements in your jurisdiction’s OHS regulations for portable heaters. Require workers and/or supervisors to complete the checklist regularly to ensure the safe use of these devices.
OTHER RESOURCES:
Spot the Safety Violation: Ventilation Issues
SPACE HEATER SAFETY CHECKLIST
YES / NO / COMMENTSDoes the heater bear a label from Underwriters Laboratory (UL), which indicates that the model has been evaluated and found to operate in a safe manner when the manufacturer’s instructions are followed?
Has the heater and its cord been inspected to ensure that it’s operating in a safe manner and showing no signs of wear or damage?
If the heater is operating in an unsafe manner or with a worn or damaged cord, has it been immediately turned off, unplugged and repaired/replaced?
Does the heater contain a built-in control that shuts off the appliance automatically if it’s accidentally tipped over?
Does the heater have a low center of gravity to minimize the potential for tipping over?
Is the heater plugged directly into an electrical outlet, without the use of an extension cord or any type of multiple outlet adapter?
Has the heater been placed in a well-ventilated space that allows heat to escape and air to circulate around it?
Has the heater been placed at least 3 feet away from all combustible materials, such as furniture, paper, wood, clothing, etc.?
Has the heater been placed in the means of egress (such as doorways, corridors, etc.) or in any high traffic areas?
Has the heater been placed in an area in or near water or wet conditions?
Is the heater turned off and unplugged if unattended, even for short periods of time?
Is the heater turned off and left unplugged at the end of the work day/shift?
Completed by:______Date:______
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