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: If one or both of the above exceptions apply, the employee seeking to use a space heater must complete the Space Heater Use Permit Form.
- Purchasing 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.
- Space Heater Use: The user of the space heater must follow all manufacturer’s operating instructions and requirements.
- 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 Inspect your approved space heater at least annually for damage to the cord, plug or other components. 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. Do not position the space heater power cord under a floor mat, rug, carpet or door to prevent tripping hazards.
- Electrical Circuit: Electrical circuits shall not be overloaded. Do not reset any tripped breakers. Call the Facilities Management department to reset tripped electrical circuit breakers.
The Environmental Health and Safety office may conduct inspections to evaluate the need for use of a space heater.
SERVICES
The Environmental Health and Safety Office offers the following services:
- Space heater assessments
- Space heater authorization
- Space heater loan
- Inspections