FIRE PREVENTION POLICY:

~ PORTABLE SPACE HEATERS ~

PURPOSE:

To ensure the safe and responsible use of portable space heaters at UT Southwestern and reduce or eliminate the risk of fires due to the improper use of portable space heaters.

SCOPE:

All portable space heaters in use at UT Southwestern will be subject to the requirements of this Policy.

POLICY:

Requirements:

The following requirements apply to all portable space heaters in use at UT Southwestern:

1.      Must be a “Listed Heater” with Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (look for the UL Listing symbol on the bottom or the back of the unit).

2.      Must have a safety tip-over switch to turn the unit off if it is tipped over.

3.      Heating element must not exceed 212 °F.

4.      Heater must not exceed 1500 watts.

5.      Portable space heaters are not permitted to be used in patient treatment areas or laboratories.

Guidelines:

Guidelines for proper use of portable space heaters:

1.      Do not leave the space heater on while unattended for more than 10 minutes.

2.      Maintain at least three feet of clearance on all sides of the unit from combustible materials (paper, wood, cloth, etc…)

3.      Due to the excessive electrical current demands of these devices, it is important not to overload electrical outlets or else the circuit breakers will trip, which may adversely affect others in the area.  If this proves to be a problem for a particular location, portable space heaters will be restricted.

Enforcement:

This policy will be enforced by Environmental Health & Safety in accordance with the following:

1.      Any portable space heaters found to be in violation of the requirements of this policy will be subject to immediate removal.

Rev. Feb 3, 2005