Safety tips for holiday decorating around the office

The holiday seasons are upon us and folks often like to decorate around their office spaces. Some reminders:

• Live trees, wreaths and garland are highly flammable and pose a high risk of fire and are not permitted on campus. Artificial decorations are safer, but also should not be placed too close to a heat source.
• Outdoor grade lights are not to be used indoors. If lights are used, non-filament lights (LEDs) are strongly recommended. They are cooler (temperature-wise) and use less electricity. All lights must be UL approved.
• The use (or misuse, as the case may be) of extension cords is always an issue at UAA. They must not be plugged into a power-strip, or vice versa. Do not place cords under carpets or rugs, through partitions, across walking paths or above ceiling panels.
• Do not attach decorations to fire sprinklers, pulls or extinguishers. Also, do not block ready view and use of such.
• Artificial snow spray is prohibited; it can activate fire alarms and be a respiratory irritant.
• No open flames allowed.

Although not a seasonal issue, aside from official postings (automatic doors, no firearms, etc.), no postings (in this case, decorations) are permitted on windowed doors.

EHSRMS would like to wish all of you a healthy, happy and loving holiday season. Please be safe so you can return to work rested and re-energized.

December Archive