Safe Use of Portable Heaters

• Portable heaters are designed to supplement a rooms primary heat source. Portable heaters are not designed for continuous use and should not be used as a primary heating source for an area.
• Maintain 3 foot minimum clearance between the heater and any combustible materials (i.e. trash / recycling bins, furniture, coat racks, draperies etc.)
• Portable Heaters must be plugged directly into an electrical outlet (Do not use extension cords)
• Electrical cords should not be located across doorways, aisle ways, under rugs or in areas where the cord may be exposed to possible physical or environmental damage.
• Portable heater ventilation openings should not be altered or obstructed.
• Portable heaters should be turned off and unplugged when the office is not occupied.
• Portable heaters are not designed for use in areas where flammable or combustible liquids or gases are used or stored.
• Portable heaters should not be used in dusty environments (work shops, agricultural buildings etc.)
• Portable heaters should not be placed in high traffic areas.
• Portable heaters need to be provided with automatic safety switches that turn off the unit if it is accidentally tipped over.
• All portable heaters shall be Underwriter Laboratory (UL) Approved.

Steven G. Triebold
Fire Protection Engineer
Environmental Health and Safety
Penn State University
(814) 865-6391

10/03