Mitigating Outdoor Heater Risks

Posted January 15, 2026

Mitigating Outdoor Heater Risks

Although outdoor heaters can be beneficial, they also come with unique risks. Without proper precautions, these appliances could pose significant fire safety concerns and cause serious injuries. It’s vital for commercial property owners with outdoor heaters on-site to understand their related hazards and ensure compliance with applicable standards.

Both electric and propane heaters pose similar hazards, particularly in terms of fire safety. For instance, these appliances could spark fast-spreading fires if placed near flammable materials or other sources of ignition. Poor placement or insufficient securement methods could also prompt them to tip over and generate extensive fires. If these appliances tip over in crowded areas, they may strike nearby individuals as they fall, possibly resulting in severe injuries. Without knowledge of safe handling methods, employees could also experience burn injuries when setting up, adjusting or moving outdoor heaters.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards (i.e., sections 11 and 69 of NFPA 1 and NFPA 58) provide recommendations for commercial property owners to follow when operating outdoor heaters on-site. Federal agencies (i.e., OSHA), states and local jurisdictions have implemented these standards within their regulations and municipal codes, ultimately making them legally binding.

For electric heaters, the NFPA recommends selecting heaters listed by a qualified electrical testing laboratory. Following the manufacturer’s instructions is also essential. Heaters should be placed in stable areas where they cannot be easily overturned and at least 3 feet away from any combustible materials. Whenever possible, heaters should be plugged directly into appropriate power receptacles. If extension cords must be used, they must have sufficient current capacity and be plugged directly into approved receptacles or adapters. Each cord must serve only one heater and be properly grounded. Cords that are spliced, deteriorated or damaged should be avoided, and extension cords or multiplug adapters must not be used as substitutes for permanent wiring. Additionally, cords should not be attached to structures or run through walls, ceilings, floors, or under doors or floor coverings. They must not be exposed to environmental or physical damage. Electric heaters must always be unplugged when they are not in use.

The NFPA also provides several recommendations for the safe use of propane heaters. Only propane heaters listed by an organization recognized by the authority having jurisdiction should be used, and manufacturer’s instructions should be followed. Installation, modification and maintenance should be performed by a qualified professional. Propane heaters should never be used in enclosed spaces. Their placement must comply with commercial property occupancy guidelines.

Like electric heaters, propane units should be placed where they cannot be easily overturned. They also must be kept at least 3 feet away from combustible materials. Additionally, hoses should be kept short, visible and protected from damage. Propane cylinders must be stored properly, away from ignition sources and protected from physical damage, tampering, and extreme temperatures. Cylinders should always be stored upright with the valve facing upward and should never be stored inside buildings or on rooftops. When stored outdoors, cylinders must be placed at least 5 feet from any doorway or opening in buildings with two or more exits, 10 feet from buildings with only one exit, and 20 feet from any vehicle service station fuel dispenser. Propane heaters should be turned off when not in use.

In addition to adhering to NFPA recommendations, commercial property owners should implement regular inspection, cleaning and maintenance schedules for their outdoor heaters, making repairs or replacements as needed. It is also essential to train employees on proper safety practices when handling these appliances. Employees should never use outdoor heaters that appear damaged and must always position them on flat, stable surfaces, securing them with appropriate materials. Outdoor heaters and their components, including cords, should be kept away from walkways and high-traffic areas to prevent accidents. If smoke or gas is detected, heaters should not be plugged in or ignited. Control knobs should be adjusted gradually to avoid overworking the units. Before moving heaters, they should be unplugged or switched off, gas disconnected (if applicable) and allowed to cool down; burners and reflectors should never be touched while the heater is on. In the event of a fire caused by an outdoor heater, employees must follow workplace emergency procedures.

Contact the team at Horst Insurance today for more risk management guidance.