Space Heaters

Accessible Transcript

Wisely Warming Up Western

Portable space heaters are responsible for starting a large percentage of house fires.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that more than 25,000 residential fires every year are associated with the use of space heaters (large ignition source)—resulting in more than 300 deaths.

These fire could have easily been prevented if the space heater in question possessed the safety features now in place on Canadian Safety Association (CSA) approved space heaters.

Western believes it is ideal for the use of space heaters to be limited. Please contact Facilities Management, Client Services (ext. 83304) if you are experiencing issues with the heat of your work setting.

If the heat problem cannot be solved, then an acceptable space heater may be utilized.

The acceptable space heater includes:

  • Safety approval certification by CSA, UL or equivalent. Visit the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) website for a list of recognized certification marks and labels.
  • Tip-over switch
  • Automatic shut-off (i.e. thermostat, timer)
  • Three pronged plug plugged directly into a wall socket (no extension cords or power bars allowed)
  • Placed on level surface away from foot traffic
  • Positioned 1.5 meters from any combustible materials (paper, clothing)
  • Never left unattended (turn off when not in use and when not in room)

Coil space heaters are not allowed.

For issues, questions, and concerns please use ASK HR to contact us:

Occupational Health & Safety
Western University
Human Resources
Support Services Building, Rm 4159

OR call 519-661-2194

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