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Environmental Health and Safety

Portable Heating Device Directive

lllinois State University recognizes that individuals have different levels of comfort associated with temperature. Electric space heaters are for seasonal use and permitted when these requirements are followed. The Work Management Center should be contacted at (309) 438-5656 if there is inadequate heat in any work area.

Acceptable Areas

  • Space heaters are not permitted in University dormitories or apartments.
  • The heater shall be placed so nothing will fall on top of or be touching the space heater.
  • Space heaters shall not be placed under a desk or in other enclosed areas.
  • Do not run space heater's electrical cord under carpeting or throw rugs.
  • Space heaters shall not be used in bathrooms, laundry areas or areas where water is present.
  • Space heaters shall not be used in areas where gasoline, paint or flammable liquids are stored.
  • Space heaters shall not be used in areas where combustible materials have accumulated or are stored.

Acceptable Equipment

  • Space heaters must be electrically powered (110 volt).
  • Acceptable types include Radiator-style oil-filled or Ceramic Block with heating elements completely enclosed.
  • Heaters with exposed heating elements are prohibited
  • Any space heaters used must be UL or FM listed and must be labeled accordingly.
  • Space heaters must have a thermostat that shuts off the unit when a certain temperature is reached.
  • Space heaters must have a tip over shut down feature. If a space heater is knocked over the unit must automatically shut off
  • Space heaters must be turned off and unplugged when not being used.
  • Space heaters must always be plugged directly into a wall receptacle when in use. Extension cords cannot be used with space heaters.
  • Do not operate space heaters with a damaged electrical cord or if plug is missing the grounding pin.
  • Space heaters must be kept in good working condition.
  • Read and follow the manufacturer's operating instructions.

If a space heater trips a circuit breaker, report this to Work Management Center immediately. Space heaters which are not designed or used in accordance with the criteria noted above will be removed from service. Questions regarding these guidelines should be directed to Environmental Health and Safety (309) 438-8325.

Additional Information and Resources