Space Heaters

As defined by the Office of State Human Resources (OSHR), a space heater is an appliance that warms a small area, such as one room, typically by radiant electric or fuel-fired heat.

What you need to know

While space heaters can be a convenient way to stay warm, they can also pose serious fire hazards if not used properly.

To ensure your safety and the safety of others, please follow these guidelines:

  • Prohibited Locations: Space heaters are prohibited in residence, laboratory, academic, business, assembly, health care patient rooms and athletic locations on campus. The exceptions are listed below:
    •  It is impossible to maintain a suitable indoor working environment temperature between (68° F – 76° F) as documented by the HVAC personnel or other qualified person.  Submit a Facilities Management FM 311 customer service request to evaluate the HVAC system and if necessary, adjust the temperature. 
    • The employee has a qualified medical condition as documented by the Human Resources Employee Relations office.  Contact the UNC Charlotte Human Resources department to submit an accommodation request. 
  • Safety Authorization: Space heaters shall not be used without authorization from the Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) office.  To request authorization, please submit a Fire & Life Safety Space Heater safety service request.  If a space heater is authorized for use, you will receive an email confirmation from the EHS office. 
  • Space Heater Registration: All space heaters must be registered. Complete the Space Heater Use Permit Form to register your space heater. This does not constitute approval.
  • Approved Types: The space heater must be ceramic or another approved cool surface heater weighing less than 10 pounds. The space heater must contain fully enclosed heating surfaces, be provided with a thermostat, tip over safety shut off, and be listed by an approved listing agency such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Factory Mutual (FM) or Electrical Testing Laboratories (ETL). Fuel fired space heaters shall not be used in office spaces. 
  • Place Heaters Safely: Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as furniture, bedding, paper, and clothing.
  • Never Leave Heaters Unattended: Turn off and unplug space heaters when you leave the room or at the end of the workday.
  • Check for Damage: Regularly check your approved space heater for damage to the cord or plug. If you find any damage, discontinue use immediately.
  • Avoid Extension Cords: Plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet.  Avoid using extension cords, as they can overheat and cause a fire. Electrical circuits shall not be overloaded.  Do not position the space heater power cord under a floor mat, rug, carpet or door.  Do not reset any tripped breakers.  Call Facilities Management to reset tripped electrical circuit breakers. 

SERVICES

The Environmental Health and Safety Office offers the following services:

  • Space heater assessments
  • Space heater authorization
  • Space heater loan
  • Inspections

Resources