FOX Corporation requires implementation of appropriate Environmental, Health and Safety procedures to protect personnel and property against the dangers
of fire when using portable electric heaters.
1.0 SCOPE
This procedure will be used whenever existing heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system modifications are unable to maintain
industry-recommended and regulatory guidelines for temperature controls within office environments.
2.0 Responsibilities
In addition to required Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Program responsibilities discussed in EHS 001, EHS Policy, the responsibilities
described below are necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the procedure.
2.1 Responsibilities
2.1.1 Department Heads
Department Heads will:
- Ensure that compliance with the equipment design specifications for portable electric heaters presented in this procedure is maintained.
- Require that the installation and use of any portable electric heaters has been coordinated and previously approved by the Facilities Department or
applicable building management. - Prohibit the purchase and use of employee-owned electric heaters within their respective departments.
2.1.2 Facilities and Building Management
Facilities and Building Management will:
- Evaluate work locations to determine if the need for portable heaters can be eliminated through adjustments to the building’s heating, ventilation and
air conditioning (HVAC) systems. - Purchase, issue and maintain portable electric heaters for occupant use.
2.1.3 Employees
All Fox employees will observe the established fire prevention requirements for their workplace and observe manufacturer operating instructions (see
attached) at all times.
2.1.4 Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Department
The EHS Department will:
- Coordinate with applicable facilities departments and management personnel to identify, evaluate and approve of authorized electric heaters.
- Periodically review and revise this procedure and coordinate with other departments as necessary.
3.0 Procedure
This procedure will be used whenever existing HVAC system modifications are unable to maintain industry-recommended guidelines for temperature controls
within office environments.
3.1 Equipment Specifications
Numerous portable electric heaters exist that are suitable for use within FOX offices. Where the Facilities Department or building management personnel
have reviewed and approved the use of portable electric heater, specifications for portable electric heaters will comply with the following:
- All portable heaters must be Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) listed or Factory Mutual (FM) approved, ceramic type heaters.
- Portable heaters must not require more than 110 volts of electricity to operate and exceed more than 1000 watts.
- Heaters must be equipped with an automatic timer that limits operation of the heater to no more than eight (8) hours.
- Heaters must connect directly into an electrical outlet without the use of an extension cord or surge protector.
- Heaters must be equipped with a Tip-Over Shutdown safety feature.
- Space heaters must have a thermostat that automatically shuts off when a pre-set temperature is reached.
- The plug must be equipped with a polarized A.C. (alternating current) having one blade longer than the other.
3.2 Heater Use
- Heaters will not be operated with a damaged cord or plug, or after the heater malfunctions, or has been dropped or damaged in any manner.
- Heater electrical cords are not permitted to run under carpeting; do not cover cord with throw rugs, runners or the like.
- Placing items on top of heaters while they are operating is prohibited.
- Heater must be kept at least 3 feet away from any combustible material (i.e. paper, furniture, cloth, etc.).
- Heaters will not be placed where it will create a tripping or evacuation hazard.
- Heaters will be unplugged when not in use.
4.0 REFERENCES
EHS 001, EHS Policy
5.0 ATTACHMENTS
None.