Generator Safety Tips That Will Save Your Life

Generators are emergency equipment that provide a secondary source of power when there is an electric failure. Many survivors of disasters use portable generators because of power failure. Generators can be helpful during a power outage, but they present serious health and safety concerns.

Safety Tips for Standby Generators

A standby generator is a backup for electricity outrages and it operates automatically within seconds once power loss has been detected. The power loss signal reaches to transfer switch and the electrical load is taken by the generator. The standby generator begins supplying power to the connected circuits.

1. Run it on a level surface

Many generators own a “splash” lubrication system that takes out oil and splashes on the moving parts. That system can function properly only if the unit is on level ground. But if you place the generator on a slope more than 10 degrees, the dippers of the generator can’t reach the oil, leaving the parts of the engine dry. That’s a key for catastrophic failure. Keenly read the manufacturer’s warnings and place your generator on a level surface.

2. Maintain The Fuel Quality

Unclean or old fuel is the major cause of creating problems for the generators. Every generator manufacturer recommends adding fuel stabilizers to minimize fuel breakdown and dirt buildup.

3. Don’t Overload Your Generator

Generators produce electricity by burning fuel and the most common fuel among them is unleaded gasoline. The electricity output is measured in watts and generators range from 1,000 watts up to 10,000 or more. A generator is needed that can meet or exceed the power of your appliances or your home need. 

4. Practice Power Management

You should practice proper power management. Even if you have enough watts to run your appliances, you don’t need to run everything at the same time. Run only what is required the most at a time and turn appliances one at a time. Some items require extra power when they are first turned on so pretty sure no one wants to create power spikes.

5. Don’t Plug a Generator Into a Wall Switch

Generator Safety for Portable Generators

Portable generators are suitable for outdoor activities like camping and recreational vehicles. It is optimal to operate electrical heaters, running refrigerators and charging gadgets. To enjoy the advantages of portable generators it is important to follow portable generator safety tips.

1. Operate It Outside

It is extremely important to place the portable generator outside the home or in an open area because portable generators release carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous, colorless and odorless gas that can take human life in no time. It can even lead to carbon monoxide poisoning that can kill a person in less than 5 minutes.

2. Prefer CO Shutoff Sensor

To eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, purchase a generator that has a built-in feature of the CO shutoff sensor. It is responsible for automatically shutting off the generator if the carbon monoxide level rises above the level. It also ensures that the engines emit less CO in the first place.

3. Say no to Wet Conditions

Always operate a generator in dry weather conditions, in an open area and on a dry surface where water cannot form puddles or drains under it. Never forget to dry your hands before touching the generator. Also, make sure you are standing in a dry place when operating a generator.

4. Use Heavy Duty Power Cords

Generator cords are specifically built for all sorts of conditions. They are all-weather cords that are split with three or four 120-volt outlets on end. These are useful and safe for generator use.

5. Refuel When Cool

Generators run hot if they are used for an extended time span. Make sure you turned it off and let it cool down before refueling. Store extra fuel in a separate area where children can not reach. Also, ensure there is nothing combustible nearby your running generator.

Use Backup Power Safely

When used properly, portable and standby generators are a great option to provide backup power during brownouts or blackouts. Learn how to use generators safely with the following tips:

Generators

1. 1. Location
      • Always keep generators at least 20 feet away from your home
      • Never operate a generator in an enclosed space
      • Make sure the generator has 3-4 feet of clear space above and on all sides for proper ventilation 
      • Keep generators away from door, windows, and vents
      • Always direct exhaust away from your home
   2. Use
      • Always use grounded cords and inspect cords for damage prior to use
      • Use the proper cord for the wattage being used
      • Always use GFCI protection 
      • Make sure to start/stop the generator when no electrical loads are connected 
      • Keep generators dry, do not operate when wet, and refuel when cool
      • Do not overload generators
      • Do not plug a generator directly into your home, connect items being powered directly to the generator 

Transfer Switches

• • Transfer switches whether manual or automatic, allow you to choose between utility power or backup generator power 
  • Transfer switches are the only way to safely power your home’s electrical system
  • Using a transfer switch prevents backfeeding. This occurs when your generator becomes a power source for the surrounding area and can damage your home, your neighbor’s home, and injure workers trying to restore power

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning Prevention

• • Improper use and installation of generators could cause CO poisoning 
  • Make sure your home has carbon monoxide alarms outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home
  • CO can kill in as little as 5 minutes
  • Symptoms of CO poisoning
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Tiredness
  • If you experience CO poisoning systems, get fresh air, do not reenter areas, and call 911

Advanced Generator Safety Tips

The following tips will be useful for experts, professional technicians, and professional operators. Previously mentioned tips are inclusive while applying advanced safety tips for generators.

1. Know About Hazards Caused by Generators

Electrical Hazards

Always ensure, the person who is maintaining generators is a trained electrician as well. Transfer systems must be installed if you are seeking to connect them directly with your electrical system. These switches allow a generator to power hardwired appliances. Only use cords recommended by the generator’s O&M manual. Three-pong cords must be used to prevent damage.

Fire Hazards

Generators can produce enough energy to ignite combustible materials for some time even after they are shut down. Store generator fuel away from open flames and heat sources. Store the fuel in an appropriate incombustible container and away from children. Vapors from gasoline can travel a long way to ignition sources that are very endangering.

Noise Pollution

Normally generators are very noisy and vibrative, making it one of the genuine reasons to install it outside. The noise can damage hearing and cause fatigue.

2. Don’t Forget To Ground Your Generator

A grounding line is essential to prevent electrocution. Grounding wires and cabling is easy to extend anywhere for directing electricity away from appliances and to the ground. This is essential for rainy weather conditions, during construction sites, and on the above groundwork. Each Generator manual will give the appropriate instructions on the earthing requirements. Follow these generator safety tips very carefully.WI