The Dos and Don'ts of Using Space Heaters in the Workplace

If you're planning to warm your workplace with space heaters this winter, there are several things you should and shouldn't do. Space heaters offer a quick and easy way to warm indoor spaces. They work by consuming energy -- typically electricity -- to generate hot air. But space heaters can increase the risk of a fire when used incorrectly.

Do Read the Owner's Manual

Before using a space heater in the workplace, read the owner's manual. There are different types of space heaters, some of which include convection, infrared (IR), oil and ceramic. While they all generate hot air, they work in different ways. By reading the owner's manual, you'll know how to correctly and safely use the space heater.

Do Create 3 Feet of Clearance

You should create at least 3 feet of clearance around each space heater. Space heaters are typically used indoors. When placed near a flammable object, though, they may cause a fire. Thousands of homes and commercial buildings have been burned down due to space heaters. You can still use space heaters in the workplace, but you should create a minimum of 3 feet of clearance around them.

Don't Connect to Extension Cords

Avoid using extension cords in conjunction with space heaters. Space heaters draw a lot of power. Most of them are rated for 1,500 watts. When connected to an extension cord, all of that power may damage the extension cord. The extension cord may melt, or may ignite. Rather than connecting them to an extension cord, plug the space heaters directly into a nearby wall outlet.

Don't Leave Running Unattended

Never leave space heaters running unattended. Walking away from a space heater for just a split second could result in a fire. The space heater may ignite dust on the heating element, or it may create an electrical short. You should only use a space heater if you or someone else is there to watch it.

Don't Stack on Top of Objects

Another mistake to avoid is stacking space heaters on top of objects. Most space heaters are small and portable. With their small size, some people assume that it's okay to stack them on top of objects. But the problem with stacking space heaters on top of objects is that it increases the risk of a fire. When stacked on top of an object, a space heater may fall over. For safety purposes, place space heaters directly on the floor while ensuring that they have at least 3 feet of clearance around them.