When colder months approach throughout the country, we begin to see various types of portable heaters on construction jobsites. While heaters can take many shapes and sizes, and use different types of fuel, they all come with many of the same hazards.
Common portable heater hazards include:
- Burns
- Explosions
- Oxygen displacement
- Fires
- Carbon monoxide
There are certain guidelines that should be followed in order to minimize the risks that come with utilizing portable heaters on construction jobsites. Be sure your workers are aware of the necessary safety procedures and precautions:
- Only use portable heaters in well-ventilated areas
- Position appropriate fire extinguishers
- Allow heaters to cool down prior to refueling
- Always use CO2 detectors
- Do not run heaters in an unattended area
- Place on level, firm, non-combustible surface
- Be sure the heaters are positioned the appropriate distance from flammables/combustibles
- If using LP gas (propane):
- Protect fuel lines from damage by equipment
- Properly secure and store fuel tanks outside
- When not in use, turn off at cylinder
- Post “no smoking” and “no open flame area” signs around cylinders
- Do not use in subgrade areas
For more information about portable heaters on construction jobsites, contact your local Amerisure Loss Control Consultant at 800-257-1900 or [email protected].
