Kathy Jacobs, RN, CCRN, safety officer at Avera, says that her facilities only allow employees to use radiant panel space heaters under certain situations. Jacobs explains that compared to coil heaters, radiant panels have flat surfaces that give out even heat and aren t too hot to touch with the hand. It was the electricians at Avera who initially approached the facility s electrical committee and convinced the group to prohibit coil space heaters. Not only was the maintenance department being asked to repair damaged heaters, but there were some close calls, including one worker who had her nylons melt to her leg because she was too close to the appliance, according to Jacobs. Confiscating heaters Generally, if Jacobs finds an unapproved space heater in the hospital, she asks the employee to take it home.
Repeat offenders have their heaters confiscated for good.
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