6 tips for external heat sources.

The cold winter months tend to bring an influx of construction site fire claims. Can you guess the culprit? Read on.

If you work outdoors or in a warehouse during the windy winter months, you know how important it is to keep your team warm. This is why you can have external heat sources in place, such as electric or gas heaters. Although heaters are not inherently dangerous when used properly, they can spark flames, cause injury, and result in property loss if not maintained or used according to safety instructions.

We are here to help you prevent losses and keep your team safe. Follow our construction site fire safety tips to use external heating units safely this season.

1. Choose the right external heater for the job. Depending on the size of your space and the nature of your work, the safest heating unit may vary. If possible, a permanent heating system is usually the safest option. If permanent heating is not possible, consider the advantages and disadvantages of indirect, direct and electric heat sources.
2. Check the safety standards. All external heat sources should be approved and operated according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Have any manuals and documentation handy and follow all safety protocols as written.
3. Establish safe surfaces and surroundings. External heat sources should only be placed on flat, dry, non-combustible surfaces. If you use an electric heater, use ground fault protection. Maintain a perimeter of at least four feet (or as directed in the unit’s manual) between the heat source and any structures or equipment. Make sure the heat source is properly secured so that it does not move or tip over while driving.
4. Monitor external heat sources regularly. Having the heat source inspected by a professional can help reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire. Check ventilation frequently. Repair or replace damaged parts before they malfunction or ignite flames.
5. Turn off heat sources. Before leaving for the evening, establish a safety protocol to ensure that the heating unit is properly turned off. Choose a point person whose job it is to turn off the device and consider adding a second person to check the device each night. Additionally, create a check-out checklist that includes turning off the heat source and signing off on the task when it’s done.
6. Train your team. Each team member should be well versed in using and turning off heat sources. Include this instruction in onboarding new team members and conduct regular refresher courses. Equip team members with personal protective equipment (PPE) to reduce the risk of injury from fires. Also, make sure they know where the fire extinguishers are on the construction site.

Construction site fire safety is just the beginning. When using an external heater at home, safe habits are just as important. See what you can do to protect your family. Then talk to a local, independent agent to get all the coverage you need.