The First Facility Management Blog

The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) has announced the development of the Infrared Heater Safety Council (IRSC). This safety education initiative will be dedicated to reducing fires caused by the misuse of infrared heating equipment used in commercial buildings.

The council was formed by gas-fired infrared heating equipment manufacturers who believed a program was needed to promote safe use of their products. The council administers a national safety campaign targeted to reach building inspectors, fire authorities and, through them, facility professionals.

“Infrared heating technology has a long history of safety and has been widely used to heat a variety of commercial and industrial buildings such as warehouses, manufacturing facilities, fire stations, vehicle service facilities, and aircraft hangars,” said IRSC Chairman Joseph A. Wortman. “But like all gas burning products, infrared heaters have installation, operation, and service procedures that must be followed to ensure safety.”

The IRSC’s educational effort focuses attention on the safe use of infrared heaters, including their proper use, application, gas connections, ventilation, and clearances to combustibles. As part of the campaign, a pamphlet that highlights safety precautions, provides an overview of applicable codes and standards, and a safety checklist for fire inspectors, is being distributed to fire marshals and insurance company risk managers.

“We are pleased to support infrared heating manufacturers in the launch of this national safety campaign to reduce improper use of this heating equipment,” said Stephen Yurek, president of AHRI, “Many of the fires associated with infrared heaters are preventable, and for this reason our members want to be part of the solution and put a concerted effort behind safety education.”

To obtain a pamphlet or download a copy, visit IRSC’s Web site at www.irsafetycouncil.org.

About AHRI
The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute is the trade association representing manufacturers of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and commercial refrigeration equipment. AHRI develops standards for and certifies the performance of many of these products. AHRI’s more than 350 member companies account for more than 90% of the residential and commercial air conditioning, space heating, water heating, and commercial refrigeration equipment manufactured and sold in North America.