10 Safety Precautions When Using Portable Generators

Improper and careless handling of portable generators can result in serious hazards and consequent injuries such as burns, electric shock, or any other physical harm. So it’s extremely useful to go through the below detailed safety precautions in order to have a smooth and stress-free handling of generators.

1. Adhere to the Safety Documentation

Make sure you have thoroughly read the safety documentation manuals before laying your hands on a generator. Additionally take close note of all the warnings associated within the manuals.

2. Secure the Generator Before Leaving Idle

Leaving a generator open and unattended can make it vulnerable to a dangerous situation. Hazardous instances can be avoided:

• By only leaving the generator alone when placed on a flat surface where it has no chance of slipping or rolling away.
• By locking the wheels. While if there are no wheels, you can always insert wedges under the tires to restrict the generator from sliding away.
• By keeping the generator out of the way from populated walkways to avoid any tripping or bumping from someone walking by.

3. Avoid Running in Power Cord

Avoid directing the generator’s power cord through main walkways as this can become a potential tripping concern. Also if these cords are unintentionally pulled or stretched, the cord or the generator outlet can get damaged. Do see the generator stays close to the maintenance area as much as possible and also protect the power cord with cable covers or board signs to avoiding any walking over.

4. Keep Away Moisture

Use strict caution when operating the generator near wet areas. It’s not a new fact a standing water is vulnerable to electrical conduction that can give you a severe shock. In addition any contact with water can considerably damage your generator. Water entering into generator outlets or extension cord can cause potential short circuits or breakers to trip.

5. Never Overload Outlets

Splitters do allow you to plug in additional equipment, but do see that it can also draw out more electricity that it is safe. This most often results in damaged diodes, overheated outlets, burned fuses and short circuits. If your work calls for splitters to be used regularly, then contact the manufacturer and acquire the details of the precautions needed.

6. Refuel With Care

When refueling or using fuel tanks do take the following precautions:

• Avoid refueling when the machine is hot or currently active.
• Keep fuel tanks away from common walking paths.
• Do not smoke or use any flame near the generator tank.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know its proper use and handling.
• Store fuel in a manufacturer certified container in a nicely ventilated area.

7. Use the Generator in a Well-Ventilated Area

Exhaust fumes generated from gas tank in a generator include carbon monoxide—an odorless, invisible and severely harmful gas. Due to this reason avoid operating the generator in a poorly ventilated or closed location as much as possible. Note this principle also applies on CARB complaint generators.

8. Protect Your Ears

Excessive noise from the generators can damage your hearing ability. So when working near load and roaring generators, protect your ears first before starting the machine. Some worthy protection tools include foam earplugs, sound-cancelling headphones, etc.

9. Service the Machine on Regular Basis

Keep in mind the following things when performing maintenance of the generator.

• Do not work when you are tired.
• Avoid keeping the machine turned on unnecessarily.
• Apply extreme caution when working with electrical components.

If some parts need to be replaced or service required, hire a certified technician to do the job rather than trying it for yourself.

10. Keep the Machine and Surrounding Area Clean

To protect the generator and increase its lifespan keep it free from air dust and debris as much as possible.

• Remove the accumulation of grease, ice, or any other material that could make the generator’s skin slippery.
• Remove any rags or dry cloths that could easily ignite a fire.
• Clear away any oil or gas spills before starting the machine.
• Avoid any contact with water.