Can You Use an Electric Space Heater Safely in the Office?

During the cold months of winter, many people turn to an electric space heater in their homes. But are they safe to use around the office? If so, what precautions should employees take? Safety is a primary concern anytime an electrical device is used indoors.

However, this risk can be minimized if you follow some simple tips:

Use Proper Space Heater Safety Precautions

• Space heaters come in several forms including those mounted on walls and those that sit on the floor and all can pose safety risks if not used properly:
• Plug space heaters into outlets that have built-in circuit breakers or ground-fault-circuit interrupters (GFCIs). These devices help prevent short-circuiting and electrical fires.
• Follow all manufacturers’ instructions for operation and use of the space heater, including placing it on a level, hard, nonflammable surface. Floor outlets should be free of carpets or other items that can burn. Never block the airflow from a fan or from ventilation openings on the appliance.
• Keep combustible materials at least three feet away from any exposed heating elements…and remember to keep children and pets away as well. If you’re using an infrared type heater, make sure no one can touch it when in operation because they will get burned. Note: Some manufacturers recommend against having electric heaters installed directly on top of carpeting because heat may cause some carpets to smolder and eventually ignite.

• If you plan to use a space heater in your office, make sure it is in good working order and will automatically turn off when tipped over or if the power fails.
• Never leave an operating space heater unattended…especially in bedrooms or bathrooms where items can fall into bathtubs or showers, increasing the risk of shock hazards.
• Check out the Department of Labor’s website at www.osha.gov for more work safety tips on using space heaters in an office setting…or ask your employer about consulting a safety professional on proper procedures.
• Offices and cubicles offer limited heating opportunities as it is…so space heaters may not be such a good idea. If you do choose to use one, however, safety should be your first priority.
• Be sure to supply plenty of blankets and winter wear at the office, just in case there’s a power outage.
• Of course for many people (such as me) no matter how much heat is on or how many layers of clothing we put on. We still shiver like crazy during these months… But aside from our natural response to the cold weather. What might the official word be on using an electric heater indoors? Is it safe? Will we catch pneumonia if we decide not to brave the outside chill. And instead curl up under a blanket with our space heater?
• The official word on this is that it’s not really a good idea to use an electric space heater. Especially if you are operating one in combination with other heaters or appliances. It can cause problems in terms of overheating and wasting energy. But that doesn’t mean you won’t hear lots of people using them during the winter months. Many times in their cubicles.

So what kinds of precautions should be taken when using an electric space heater in the office?

Plug-in models should be plugged directly into wall outlets. Never use an extension cord with these devices as they could overheat and start a fire.

If there is no built-in GFCIs (ground fault circuit interrupters), they should be installed on the circuit supplying electricity to the heater.

Never place a heater where it can fall over or be knocked down. Also, always unplug them before cleaning and don’t use anything flammable to clean electric space heaters (and don’t vacuum around them either).

Don’t use any type of space heater in bathrooms or near bathtubs or showers. Even if they are not being used.

Finally, never operate an oven range or clothes dryer along with an electric heater as they draw too much current. If you can help it, unplug these appliances when using an electric heater…or just hold off until later when your office is warmer and there is no need for outside heating sources.

Conclusion:

Electric space heaters can be dangerous if they are not used properly. So it is best just to avoid using them in the office unless absolutely necessary.

If you do choose to use one, then please take all necessary precautions. And consider what I’ve mentioned above when bringing the idea of a space heater into your office life.

And even if you don’t use a space heater or any other kind of outdoor heating device. There are still some things you can do to keep warm. Such as getting an electric blanket for the winter months. If you find yourself shivering uncontrollably during work hours each morning. While everyone around seems fine then perhaps an electric blanket would be good for your health…and your productivity.