Space Heater Permit Request

The use of portable space heaters on the GGC campus is highly discouraged due to the increased risk of

fire and energy required to operate. Portable space heaters should not be used to replace a buildings

fixed heating system.

Exceptions to accommodate medical conditions will be considered through EHS.

How to request an evaluation for the use a portable space heater:

1. Submit a request through Facilities to determine if the heating, ventilation and air conditioning

(HVAC) system requires repair or to determine if the temperature can be adjusted.

a. Request description should read “Evaluate office area for possible need for space heater.”

- Facilities maintenance will evaluate work area and determine if heating conditions are

within normal operating parameters.

2. If it is determined that the work area cannot be adjusted to the requested parameters and or would

require supplemental heating, the request will then be forwarded to Environmental Health and Safety

(EHS) to determine if it is safe to operate a portable space heater.

3. The requestor completes the user and space heater information and submits the request form (see

attached) to EHS at envirohealthsafety@ggc.edu.

a. EHS will evaluate the area. EHS will grant a permit for space heater operation when the work

area is determined safe for space heater operation and the proper space heater is obtained by the

requestor. The request form is used by EHS to evaluate the area and space heater and serves as the

permit once approved by EHS.

b. Permits are issued for a 6 month period and are required for each space heater. A separate

request is required for each device. The permit(s) must be maintained in the immediate vicinity of the

approved location and available upon request from any GGC employee.

c. Permits can be revoked at any time due to non-compliance with the requirements listed

below.

4. Prior to permit expiration a new request must be submitted to envirohealthsafety@ggc.edu.

Portable space heater requirements:

1. Portable space heaters are not allowed in residence halls.

2. Space heaters must be UL (Underwriters Laboratory) listed, or FM (Factory Mutual) approved.

3. Space heaters must be plugged directly into an approved wall receptacle.

• The use of extension cords or surge suppressors are not authorized.

• Receptacles installed in cubicles are not approved wall receptacles for space heaters.

4. Must be located more than 36 inches away from combustible materials such as paper, furniture,

clothing, curtains, etc.

• Zero clearance space heaters are preferred.

5. Must be located in plain sight and clearly visible on the floor.

6. Cannot be placed in a high traffic area.

7. The cord shall not be placed under carpets or paper, or across aisles or other walking paths.

8. Nothing shall be placed on the heater.

9. Can only use electric heaters; no gasoline, kerosene and propane heaters are permitted.

10. Heater must be capable of automatic shut-off if tipped over.

11. The heating element cannot exceed a temperature of 212*F (100*C).

12. Must be turned off and unplugged when the area is not occupied.

13. Must be inspected regularly by the operator for any damage to the unit or the cord.

14. All portable space heaters are subject to survey and approval by the EHS designee.

Environmental Health and Safety reserves the right to inspect and declare any space heater

"unapproved" if it creates a hazard or is inappropriate for a particular location based on specific

circumstances, codes, and/or legal requirements.