Directive: Temporary Construction and Portable Heaters

Scope

This directive is being issued to clarify the installation and operational requirements for temporary construction and portable gas fired heaters. Specifically, it provides an interpretation of “safe operating condition” and outlines the minimum content to be included in the “instructions” supplied by the lessor to the lessee of such equipment.

Details

Establishments that maintain, lease, or rent out temporary construction or portable gas fired heaters must hold an appropriate operating permit as detailed under section 28 of the Gas Safety Regulation (GSR).

Construction and portable heater rental establishments (the lessor) must comply with all associated requirements under the CSA B149.1, Natural Gas and propane installation code (CSA B149.1).  

CSA B149.1 clause 7.18.7 stipulates - It shall be the responsibility of the lessor of a construction heater, at the time of delivery to the lessee, to ensure that;

• the construction heater is approved and in safe operating condition; and
• the lessee is instructed in the safe installation and use of the construction heater; and components in accordance with the requirements of clause 7.18.

“Safe operating condition” referenced in clause 7.18.7 (a) includes regular maintenance performed by an appropriately qualified individual at regular intervals to ensure the equipment remains in a safe operable condition. This work shall include, but is not limited to, maintenance of the appliance, regulator, hose and fittings.  

The instructions to the lessee by the lessor referenced in clause 7.18.7 (b) shall include, but not be restricted to, the following:

• replacement of containers;
• operation of the construction heater;
• specific tools to be used;
• clearances required from combustible materials;
• shutting off the construction heater;
• checking for leaks; and
• moving the construction heater from location to location.

All gas fired heaters must be certified to an appropriate recognized Canadian standard for use in British Columbia.  

Ventless construction or portable heaters connected to a single propane cylinder, using an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) supplied hose and regulator listed for that model, does not require a gas installation permit or installation by a qualified gasfitter if the following conditions are met:

• the heater is certified to Canadian standard CSA 2.14; and
• displays a current Technical Safety BC temporary heater decal required under s.31 (2) of the GSR.  

CSA 2.14 certified construction or portable heaters compliant with GSR section 31 (2) satisfy any additional requirements under section 26 (2)(d) of the GSR.

A Temporary Heater Gas Installation Permit must be obtained, and all work performed by a qualified gas fitter if; construction or portable heaters are installed in any arrangement other than connected to a single propane cylinder, using an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) supplied hose and regulator listed for that model.  

Temporary construction or portable heaters certified for indoor use with venting attached, must be connected to a venting system, vented to the outside, and installed by a qualified gasfitter. An appropriate gas installation permit is required for temporary heaters connected to a venting system.

Provincial Safety Manager, Gas

References:  

Gas Safety Regulation

Safety Standards General Regulation

CSA B149.1 - Natural gas and propane installation code  

CSA 2.14 Gas-fired construction heaters standard