CSU Environmental Health Services conducts random health and safety (H&S) inspections for the majority of campus buildings within a yearly repeating cycle. Many proctors will be emailed a copy of the H&S report after field inspections are compiled and completed. Please review the reports and make any corrections necessary in your buildings and areas. The first page of the report details how to use the interactive EHS web page to input information regarding any corrections or remediation of deficiencies or violations listed in the report. Hazard ratings are assigned to deficiencies according to the relative level of danger or health threat that they may pose. Most listed deficiencies are categorized, reported and listed due to violation of regulations or policies.

Building reports often list excessive electrical safety violations and deficiencies. Many of these are due to the improper use or application of extension cords. Cords used must be of the proper gauge relative to the equipment they are supplying power to. Light duty multi receptacle (1 into 3) extension cords are not permitted for campus or industrial use and should not be utilized. Only extension cords with one receptacle on the end should be used when needed; not as permanent or make-shift wiring. When possible, try to use a surge strip first in line from the outlet, and then attach proper extension cords from the surge protector to the equipment or appliance. Please pass the above information on to your building’s users and occupants.

CSU Environmental Health Services Portable Heater Use Guidelines

1. Portable electric heaters shall be listed and approved by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL).

2. Portable electric heaters should be of the fail-safe type, which are equipped with an automatic tip-over safety shut-off switch.

3. Portable electric heaters should be placed at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from combustibles: paper, curtains, furniture, clothing, bedding or anything else that can burn. Observe clearances recommended by the manufacturer.

4. Never leave your electric heater running when you leave the room or area, or while sleeping.

5. Never dry clothes or other combustibles on or directly over heaters.

6. Always plug your electric heater directly into a wall outlet or use a UL approved surge strip with circuit breaker, don’t use extension cords.

7. Do not extend the electric cord of the heater through wall openings, under doors or floor coverings. Arrange the cord away from traffic areas where it will not be tripped over or otherwise subject to damage.

8. Do not operate an electric heater with a damaged cord or plug or after the heater malfunctions or has been dropped or damaged in any manner.

9. Do not operate electric heater in or near water or in extremely damp conditions.

10. Liquid and/ or solid fuel (gasoline, kerosene, pellet, propane etc.) space heaters are not permitted for use inside buildings or in areas with inadequate ventilation.