Space
Heater Policy
December 2003
General:
Three
significant issues govern the use of space heaters in campus
buildings — fire safety, electrical loads, and energy
efficiency. First, all space heaters used on campus must be
approved for fire safety, as classified by the National Fire
Protection Association. No liquid fueled space heaters (e.g.,
kerosene heaters) shall be used in any residential, office,
classroom or research buildings. Second, if someone feels that
a space heater is necessary for adequate warmth, this may indicate
that the central heating system needs repair. The UT Tyler Power
Plant should be consulted if the central heating system seems
incapable of meeting comfort requirements. If the UT Tyler Power
Plant is unable to adjust heating conditions in the affected
area, Physical Plant Department personnel will determine whether
the electrical load carrying capacity is sufficient for adding
an approved space heater to the area. Last but certainly not
least, energy efficiency is also very important. Electric space
heaters can be a very costly means of heating.
Usage
Guidelines:
-
Dress appropriately for the weather using layers of clothing
to avoid becoming chilled when going from car to office or in
between buildings.
-
Always
read and follow the manufacturers’ operating instructions
before operating a space heater.
-
Always turn off the space heater or unplug it when you leave
the office for an extended period (i.e., for a meeting, for
lunch, and at the end of the day). Note: Any space heater found
activated for extended periods of time with no personnel in
the area, after-hours or on weekends, etc. will be removed.
-
The space heater must be the grounded type and have a cord with
a three-prong plug. It must have the Underwriters Laboratories
(UL) listing mark.
-
The space heater must cut itself off if tipped over.
-
The space heater must be thermostat-controlled and have elements
that are protected from contact.
-
The
space heater must be clean and not covered with dust. The cord
must be in good condition and not frayed.
-
Do not use a space heater where flammable or explosive vapors
or dust may be present.
-
Do
not use a space heater where toxic or radioactive materials
may be present.
-
Do not place a space heater near combustible materials such
as papers, magazines, drapes, or office furniture. Follow manufacturer
guidelines for placement of the heater. If you do not have these
guidelines, be sure to provide at least 36 inches of clearance
in front of the heater and 18 inches clearance around the sides
and back.
-
Do not plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip.
It should be plugged directly into a permanent wall outlet.
-
Never run a power cord under a carpet or floor mat.
Recommended Space Heater:
The recommended space heater at UT Tyler is the “Cozy
Legs” radiant heat panel. This unit has been deemed most
appropriate considering the three issues outlined above. This
unit can be acquired by calling toll free 1-877-266-3532 or
by ordering on line at www.heatershop.com/desk_heater_leg.html.
At a cost of approximately $75, these units may be purchased
with departmental M&O funds. To insure proper installation,
the UT Tyler Physical Plant Department should install these
units via work order.
Existing
Space Heaters:
If
you have an existing space heater, please contact the UT Tyler
Office of Environmental Health and Safety for an inspection
of the unit. If deemed unsatisfactory, the unit must be removed
or will be confiscated. If deemed satisfactory, the unit may
remain until it needs to be replaced. At that time, the recommended
unit should be acquired.
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