LP-Gas and Temporary Heaters on Construction Sites
Learn what the construction rules ask of the worker who sets up or runs LP-gas containers and temporary heaters: approved equipment, indoor use, spacing, storage, ventilation, clearances and flame-failure protection.
Based on OSHA 29 CFR 1926.153 (LP-Gas) and 1926.154 (Temporary heating devices) · about 6 min read
Need proof of training? The full course (25 min) adds practice questions, a job scenario, the final quiz and a certificate your employer can verify.
The systemContainers, valves, connectors, manifold valve assemblies and regulators are of an approved type.
CylindersAll cylinders meet the Department of Transportation specification identification requirements in 49 CFR part 178.
AppliancesLP-gas consuming appliances are approved types.
Converted appliancesAn appliance made for a different gaseous fuel may be used with LP-gas only after it is properly converted, adapted and tested for performance with LP-gas before it is placed in use.
Indoor use is the exception. It is permitted when operational requirements make portable use of containers necessary and their location outside of buildings is impracticable, and then in accordance with the indoor rules.
Systems with containers larger than a nominal 1 pound of LP-gas capacity are equipped with excess flow valves
Those containers, when connected for use, stand on a firm and substantially level surface and, when necessary, are secured upright
The maximum water capacity of an individual container is 245 pounds (nominal 100 pounds of LP-gas)
Hose, regulators and what not to hang on the cylinder
RegulatorsDirectly connected to the container valves or to manifolds connected to the container valves.
No aluminumAluminum piping or tubing is not used.
HoseAs short as practicable, while long enough to allow the spacing the rule requires without kinking or straining.
No structural supportsContainer valves, connectors, regulators, manifolds, piping and tubing are not used as structural supports for heaters.
Heat and damage: locate containers, regulating equipment, manifolds, pipe, tubing and hose to minimize exposure to high temperatures or physical damage.
Portable heaters, including salamanders, have an approved automatic device that shuts off gas to the main burner, and pilot if used, if the flame fails
Those with inputs above 50,000 B.t.u. per hour also have either a pilot that must be lighted and proved before the main burner can be turned on, or an electrical ignition system
A note to the rule sets a narrow exception for portable heaters under 7,500 B.t.u. per hour input used with containers having a maximum water capacity of 2 1/2 pounds
In multiple container systems, heaters have an approved regulator in the supply line between the cylinder and the heater, and the cylinder connectors have an excess flow valve to limit gas flow if the fuel line ruptures
These spacing rules sit in the rule's paragraph on containers and equipment used inside buildings or structures.
6 feetFor temporary heating, heaters other than integral heater-container units are located at least 6 feet from any LP-gas container.
Do not aim at the containerBlower and radiant type heaters are not directed toward any LP-gas container within 20 feet.
Also allowed: heaters specifically designed for attachment to the container or to a supporting standard may be used, as long as they are designed and installed to prevent direct or radiant heat application onto the containers.
Two or more heater-container units in an unpartitioned area on the same floor: the containers of each unit are separated from the containers of any other unit by at least 20 feet
Containers manifolded together for a heater or heaters in an unpartitioned area on the same floor have a total water capacity of no more than 735 pounds (nominal 300 pounds of LP-gas), and such manifolds are separated by at least 20 feet
Filling of portable containers, or containers mounted on skids, from storage containers is done not less than 50 feet from the nearest building.
Reference: 29 CFR 1926.153(e)(2)
Temporary heaters
Fresh air
Fresh air is supplied in sufficient quantities to maintain the health and safety of workers. Where natural means of fresh air supply is inadequate, mechanical ventilation is provided
When heaters are used in confined spaces, special care is taken to provide sufficient ventilation to ensure proper combustion, maintain the health and safety of workers, and limit temperature rise in the area
Reference: 29 CFR 1926.154(a)
Temporary heaters
Clearance and stability
CombustiblesInstall heaters with clearance to combustible material not less than the amount in the rule's Table F-4, unless the heater is listed for installation with lesser clearances, in which case follow its approval.
FloorsA heater not suitable for use on wood floors is not set directly on them or on other combustible materials. It rests on suitable heat insulating material or at least 1-inch concrete, or equivalent, and the insulating material extends beyond the heater 2 feet or more in all directions.
Tarps and canvasAt least 10 feet from combustible tarpaulins, canvas or similar coverings, and the coverings are securely fastened against wind.
LevelHeaters in use are set horizontally level, unless the manufacturer's markings permit otherwise.
Fact-checked against the regulation text on October 09, 2026. This certificate records completion of awareness training based on OSHA 29 CFR 1926.153 and 1926.154. It is not an OSHA card or license. These sections do not set their own training requirements, and this certificate does not by itself meet the employer's training duty under 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2). Your employer must still instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to their work environment to control or eliminate any hazards or other exposure to illness or injury.
This guide explains the rule in plain words. Always read the regulation itself and your employer's site-specific procedures.