Electric Construction Heaters
| Purpose |
Protecting Workers from injuries associated with the improper operation of electric construction heaters. |
| Definition |
An electric heater is an electrical device that converts an electric current into heat. |
| Hazards
This list of potential hazards is not comprehensive. Workers are required to complete a Hazard Assessment prior to starting this task to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled.
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Physical:
- Electric Shock
- Fire
- Burns
- Slips/Trips
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| Controls |
Engineering:
- GFCI outlet and breakers, if possible
- Non-combustible base material
- Proper securement/place of heaters
Administrative:
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Basic PPE: CSA/ANSI approved safety footwear
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| Work Site Supervisory Responsibility |
Do
- Ensure the heater is placed on a non-combustible material and clear of obstructions to ensure proper airflow and to avoid overheating.
- Keep all combustible materials a minimum of 3 feet away from the outlet/heater face and a minimum of 3 feet from the top, side and rear.
- Avoid using extension cords, unless provided by a certified electrician.
- If an extension cord is used, the connection where the two cables meet should be placed on a non-combustible material such as drywall or gypsum sheeting. The extension cord must also be of equal or greater amperage to prevent the cord from overheating.
- Ensure the heater is placed in a stable location, to prevent potential tip-over.
- Regularly inspect the heater at least once a day, to ensure the heater is in good working condition and meets the safety rules within the Approved Heaters document.
- Provide training and instructions on how to properly install and inspect the construction heater in use.
- Be knowledgeable about manufacturers’ specifications and equipment limitations.
Do not
- Allow untrained Workers to install or operate the equipment without supervision.
- Operate heaters with a damaged cord or plug or after the heater malfunctions, has been dropped or damaged in any way.
- Do not place the electric heater near water or damp places, to prevent electric short or short circuiting.
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| Worker Responsibility |
Do
- Inspect all equipment before use.
- Regularly inspect the heater at least once a day, to ensure the heater is in good working condition and meets the safety rules within the Approved Heaters document.
- Ensure the heater is placed on a non-combustible material, such as drywall or gypsum sheeting.
- Keep all combustible materials a minimum of 3 feet away from the outlet/heater face and a minimum of 3 feet from the top, side and rear.
- Avoid using extension cords, unless provided by a certified electrician.
- If an extension cord is used, the connection where the two cables meet should be placed on a non-combustible material such as drywall or gypsum sheeting. The extension cord must also be of equal or greater amperage to prevent the cord from overheating.
- Report the damage or malfunction to your supervisor and tag the heater out of service.
- Ensure that power cords are hung and not submerged in water or mud.
- Ensure an ABC type fire extinguisher is available with you.
Do not
- Do not remove or tamper with the heater’s thermostat, power cord or receptacle.
- Do not place the electric heater near water or damp places, to prevent electric short or short circuiting.
- Operate heaters with a damaged cord or plug or after the heater malfunctions, has been dropped or damaged in any way.
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