Winter Tips for Generator Safety
Winter is rearing its frosty head across the country. But, just because things are cooling down outside doesn’t mean your business isn’t heating up. Indeed, our generator technicians receive plenty of service calls over the winter months as generator systems break down. It is our pleasure to recommend the following winter generator safety tips that will keep your systems operational and your personnel safe from injury.
- Pay Attention to Position. Whenever using a mobile generator system, always pay attention to where you place it. Ideally, you will want to position the generator in a covered, but not enclosed area. The location should be at least 20 feet from any doors, windows, or vents that lead into any buildings on the site. It is best to position the generator on concrete or asphalt, but if you must place it on soil, be sure to place boards beneath it to keep the wheels from sinking into the mud.
- Watch for Shock Hazards. Any electrical cords connected to the generator should be in good condition and free from damage. You will want to keep your cords away from any pooled water, snow, or ice on the ground. Likewise, pay close attention to the weather and adjust your operations accordingly so that your generator will operate safely during rainy, windy, and snowy conditions. To improve safety and further reduce the risk of electric shock, connect an inlet box and transfer switch.
- Monitor for Respiratory Distress. Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur even around a well-ventilated mobile generator system. Monitor your employees for signs of dizziness, fatigue, headaches, nausea, or shortness of breath. Do not delay medical attention if employees start to experience these symptoms.
- Check Your Fuel. Make sure you are using the proper fuel and that the fuel is stored correctly so that moisture cannot penetrate the tanks and enter your fuel supply. Always store fuel properly and a safe distance away from your generator system.
- Cool It Down Before Filling It Up. Never attempt to add fuel to a hot generator. This is a common cause of generator fires, and it is easily prevented by allowing the system to cool off before topping off the tank.
- Keep Traffic Away. Position barriers around your generator system so that vehicular traffic can’t slip and slide into the system. Vehicle strikes are a common and easily preventable cause of mobile generator damage in winter.
- Adhere to Manufacturer Recommendations. Each generator has specific cold-weather operating recommendations and requirements. Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations in this regard and adjust your generator settings as the weather changes.
Do you have questions about how to operate your mobile generator over the winter months safely? Contact the EGSA certified generator technicians at Gen-Tech Power Generation Specialists by calling (800) 625-8324. It is our pleasure to give you the advice that will keep your generators humming along until spring arrives.