Fuel Construction Heaters
| Purpose |
Protecting Workers from injuries and incidents associated with installing, maintaining, securing, positioning, and utilizing construction heaters. |
| Definition |
A portable heat source that assists in producing and radiating heat, typically to raise the temperature of a room or building. Common portable heat sources used in construction include gas and propane heaters. |
| 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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Chemical:
Physical:
- Fire/Explosion
- Burns
- Slips/Trips
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| Controls |
Engineering:
- Portable Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector
- Proper securement/place of heaters
Administrative:
- Emergency Response Plan (ERP)
- Manufacturers’ Specifications
- ABC fire extinguisher
- Hazard Assessment
- Training on proper use of heaters
- Approved Heaters Document
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.
- Ensure all combustibles are kept at a safe distance from the heater, in accordance with the minimum distances outlined in the Approved Heaters document for each specific heater type.
- Ensure the heater is properly secured or chained. This will prevent the heater from falling over and potentially starting a fire, as well as to prevent unauthorized personnel from moving it.
- If the heater is powered by propane, ensure the propane tank is kept outside and secured in an upright position.
- Regularly inspect the heater at least once a day, to ensure the heater is in good working condition and meets the safety rules with the Approved Heaters document.
- Only certified gas fitters are to install these heaters to the main gas connection, if the heater needs to be moved, contact the supplier.
- If issues are identified with the heater, turn off the fuel supply at the source, and contact the supplier.
- Ensure there is proper ventilation by opening windows or doors which can assist in getting rid of CO emissions.
- Ensure your Carbon Monoxide detector is working and test the CO levels.
- Ensure an ABC Fire Extinguisher is always in the immediate area of the heater.
Do not
- Allow untrained Workers to install or operate the heaters.
- Attempt to connect / disconnect or service the heater, without contacting the supplier or referring to the manufacturer for instructions, as required.
- Allow open flame type heaters.
- Use the heater if there is improper ventilation.
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| Worker Responsibility |
Do
- Ensure the heater is placed on a non-combustible material.
- Ensure all combustibles are kept at a safe distance from the heater, in accordance with the minimum distances outlined in the Approved Heaters document for each specific heater type.
- 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 gas supply hose is positioned to avoid fire and tripping hazards.
- If issues are identified with the heater, turn off the fuel supply and contact your supervisor.
- Ensure the propane tank is kept outside and secured in an upright position.
Do not
- Attempt to connect / disconnect or service the heater, without contacting the supplier or referring to the manufacturer for instructions, as required.
- Relight the heater without proper training and Supervisor approval.
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