Portable generators, because they are typically small in size and have a quiet presence, are often ignored. However, generators are very powerful pieces of equipment and can do serious harm to a negligent operator. Not only that, innocent bystanders are at risk for injury when a generator is being used improperly. For these reasons, generators deserve just as much consideration as any other safety practice or precaution. It’s no coincidence that the first few pages of a generator owner’s manual are chock full of safety tips.
From carbon monoxide poisoning to electrical and fire hazards, there are several serious risks involved when operating a generator. The good news is, with some basic knowledge and a conscious commitment to safety, most potential dangers can be avoided.
First Things First
Before operating the generator, it’s wise to become familiar with the owner’s manual. Just taking a few minutes to read through the basics and become familiar with the unit will go a long way.
Performing a quick visual inspection is the next step before starting the generator. This will alert the operator of potential safety hazards that may have occurred during transport. Check for any major damage including loose, cut or frayed wiring. A pre-operation inspection is especially essential on jobsites where the unit is frequently moved to different locations. The more the generator is moved around, the more damage it will subsequently sustain.
Don’t Breathe It In
Most people are aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. What makes it especially dangerous is that it’s invisible, odorless, tasteless and virtually undetectable — and its effects can be severe, even fatal. As stated previously, the best way to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning goes right back to location, location, location. Never operate an engine-powered generator in an enclosed space. This includes garages, sheds, basements and any indoor space, regardless of how well ventilated it may appear to be. Even if the space is only partially enclosed, or has an open a window or door, a serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is still present.
Never operate a generator near a building where the carbon monoxide fumes could enter through open windows, doors or vents. Generally the unit should be kept at least three feet away from any occupied buildings. Following this guideline will ensure the safety of those working with the generator, as well as innocent bystanders that may be in close proximity.
To prevent a dangerous level of carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s also important to recognize and respond to symptoms. Initial signs of poisoning consist of headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue and disorientation, and are often mistaken for influenza or food poisoning. If these are ignored, more serious symptoms will occur and may include increased heart rate, hallucinations, seizures and unconsciousness. If anyone working near a generator experiences any of these warning signs, it’s crucial to get fresh air immediately or seek medical attention. Remember, symptoms can turn deadly within a matter of minutes, so it’s important to recognize and respond to them at the first sign.
Harmful effects that can’t physically be seen are some of the most dangerous. But just because a safety threat is invisible doesn’t mean it’s unpreventable. Encountering electric shocks is always a possibility when working with a generator, so understanding how to avoid them will be essential for jobsite safety.
Absorb the Shock
Though there are different degrees of electric shock severity, any amount will cause pain. Beyond delivering an unpleasant jolt, a severe shock can result in bodily harm, including nerve and tissue damage. Fortunately most shock hazards can be prevented by following a few simple guidelines.
Even when an operator practices careful and safe generator use, the unit can still malfunction and accidents can happen, which is why properly grounding the generator during set up is critical. This step is one of the most commonly overlooked safety precautions, but takes very little time. All generators will include a small grounding lug. Simply wrap grounding wire around the lug and burrow it into the ground. If a malfunction happens to occur, the ground — not the operator — will absorb any electrical shock.
A careful operator will also take caution to prevent backfeeding, which occurs when electrical power flows in the opposite direction as usual. Because of the dangers to both utility workers and residents served by the same utility transformer, it’s illegal to plug a generator into any public service line, including standard outlets in a home or garage. A utility worker repairing a power line miles away from the generator can still be electrocuted due to backfeeding if the generator is plugged into that line.
While many operators may not be aware of backfeeding, a more commonly understood hazard is the danger of electricity and water. In fact, when dealing with anything electric, even a small amount of moisture can be dangerous. Be sure the generator is completely dry before operation, and in the event of rain or snow conditions, shelter it with a protective cover or tarp. Anyone touching the generator should always be sure his or her hands are dry before coming in contact with the unit.
Even when it’s completely shut off, any direct contact between the generator and water should still be avoided. For this reason, never clean a generator with a pressure washer or by dumping water on it. If the engine and generator are extremely greasy or dirty, spray on a nonpetroleum-based degreaser and wipe it clean with a cloth or soft brush. A damp cloth may be used for smaller spot cleanings, but be sure to dry the unit entirely before operating again.
Most electrical problems will cause unpleasant shock hazards, but the most severe may cause sparks and even a fire. To prevent additional fire hazards during generator use, follow a few basic rules — and use a little common sense.
We Didn’t Start the Fire
When considering fire safety, location is once again key. Keep the generator away from wood, dry grass and leaves, as these can ignite quickly.
Just as it’s important not to place the generator near anything flammable, don’t place anything flammable near a generator. Fuel, matches, oily rags, trash or anything else that could be even slightly flammable should be kept a good distance away at all times. When it comes to gas and diesel powered units, this principle must also be applied to fuel storage. Use only approved containers, and store all fuel and other flammable liquids away from the generator.
Additionally be very careful when handling fuel and filling the tank. Check the fuel level prior to operation and fill if necessary, using caution to prevent spills. In the event that fuel needs to be added before a job is done, first shut off the generator and wait for the engine to cool completely. Never add fuel to the engine when the unit is running.
To prevent damage to equipment and a fire in the power cord, do not overload the generator. Every unit has a wattage output, which must not be exceeded by the total wattage draw of the equipment being powered. Furthermore, plug all equipment directly into the generator if possible. However, in the event extension cords are required, be sure they are heavy-duty, outdoor-use rated and properly sized for the particular unit.
Finally, a little common sense will go a long way in preventing a potential fire. It may go without saying, but the most obvious safety tip should be an easy one to follow — don’t smoke near the generator. Fire prevention is as simple as that.
Stay Injury-Free
Beyond these serious dangers, personal injury can also occur with improper generator use.
A generator is a major piece of equipment and potential for physical injuries does exist. It’s important to recognize these potential dangers and abide by the necessary steps to prevent them.
Certain parts of engine powered units can become extremely hot, particularly the muffler. Never touch a muffler, even after the engine and generator have been shut off, as severe burns can occur. Some manufacturers include guards around the muffler to prevent this potential danger. Look for this safety feature when purchasing or renting a generator to eliminate the potential hazard.
The engine itself will also become very hot with prolonged use, so exercise caution when shutting it off at the end of a long period of operation. Proceed with turning off and disconnecting all powered equipment first, and then turn off the generator. Always allow plenty of time for the unit to cool down before moving, or doing any maintenance checks or repair work. Cool down time will vary based on how long the generator has been running, so it’s best to allow several minutes. At the end of the day, store the generator and extension cords in a safe, dry place protected from weather elements.
Keeping people and property safe is a crucial consideration for any emergency management professional. Serious and fatal accidents can occur, but most can be avoided by taking a little extra time to exercise safe and proper use. To protect yourself and others around you, keep in mind these tips and those listed in the owner’s manual and be sure to observe them at all times.
Pam Meyer is an equipment sales manager for Subaru Industrial Power Products. With nearly 30 years experience in power equipment sales, she is an expert on portable generator safety.
