UTMB HANDBOOK OF OPERATING PROCEDURES

Section 8 Policies Subject 8.1 Health and Safety Policy 8.1.19 Portable Heating Devices

11/14/06 -Originated -Reviewed w/changes -Reviewed w/o changes Environmental Health & Safety -Author

Portable Heating Devices

Definitions	Portable Heating Device - any type of portable heating equipment that is free-standing and or a self contained unit that generates and delivers heat to a local zone within the building or area.
Policy	The use of any portable heating device, including but not limited to: space heaters, area/room heaters, scented wax heaters, drink warmers, hot plates and any similar items, is expressly prohibited in all buildings owned or leased by the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB). UTMB is committed to maintaining a safe environment that is in compliance with all life safety and fire safety regulations. Portable heating devices pose serious fire and electrical hazards which threaten the safety of UTMB occupants and property. Any planned deviation from this policy will require prior approval from Environmental Health and Safety-Occupational Safety and Fire Prevention. NOTE: Coffee makers are not included in the intent of this policy.
Responsibility	It is the responsibility of all supervisors to ensure compliance with this policy. All employees, faculty, students and volunteers are responsible: • for ensuring no portable heating devices are located or used in any buildings owned or leased by UTMB. • for reporting any use of a portable heating devices on properties owned or maintained by UTMB to Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). • to dress appropriately for the weather. Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). • Monitor compliance with this policy • Order the removal of or remove any portable heating devices found in violation of this policy • Follow up on any reports of portable heating devices use on properties owned or maintained by UTMB

Responsibility, (continued)	The assumed need for portable heating devices to provide adequate warmth may indicate a malfunction of the central heating and cooling system and should be brought to the immediate attention of UTMB maintenance.
References	IHOP 8.3.1 Resource Conservation Policy IHOP 3.7.2 Personal Appearance