General Hazards; Electrical Hazards - Generac Power Systems 6379 Installation Manuallines

Safety
The manufacturer cannot anticipate every possible circumstance that might involve a hazard. The warnings in this
manual, and on tags and decals affixed to the unit, are not all-inclusive. If using a procedure, work method, or operating
technique the manufacturer does not specifically recommend, ensure that it is safe for others. Also make sure the pro-
cedure, work method, or operating technique used does not result in unsafe conditions.
1.3 — General Hazards
• For safety reasons, the manufacturer recommends that this equipment be installed, serviced, and repaired by an
Authorized Service Dealer or other competent, qualified electrician or installation technician who is familiar with
all applicable codes, standards, and regulations.
Ensure that the transfer switch is installed, operated, and serviced in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
•
tions and recommendations. Following installation, do nothing that might render the unit unsafe or in noncompli-
ance.
Keep the area around the transfer switch clean and uncluttered. Remove any materials that could become haz-
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ardous.
When working on this equipment, remain alert at all times. Never work on the equipment when physically or men-
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tally fatigued.
• Inspect the portable generator regularly, and promptly repair or replace any worn or damaged components using
only factory approved parts and procedures.
1.4 — Electrical Hazards
• All generators produce dangerous electrical voltages and can cause fatal electrical shock. Utility power delivers
extremely high and dangerous voltages to the transfer switch as well as the generator when it is in operation.
Avoid contact with bare wires, terminals and other connections. Ensure all covers, guards, and barriers are in
place, and that they are properly secured and/or locked before operation. If work must be done around an oper-
ating unit, stand on an insulated, dry surface to reduce potential shock hazard.
• Do not handle any kind of electrical device while standing in water, while barefoot, or while hands or feet are wet.
DANGEROUS ELECTRICAL SHOCK MAY RESULT.
• If it is necessary to stand on metal or concrete while installing, operating, servicing, or repairing this equipment,
lay down a dry wooden platform and cover with insulated mats before beginning.
Verify that the portable generator is properly grounded.
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• Wire gauge sizes of electrical wiring, cables, and cord sets must be adequate to handle the maximum electrical
current (ampacity) to which it will be subjected.
• Before installing or servicing equipment, verify that all power voltage supplies are positively turned off at their
sources. Failure to do so can result in hazardous and possibly fatal electrical shock.
• Connecting a portable generator to an electrical system normally supplied by an electric utility is by means of the
transfer switch so as to isolate the generator's electric system from the electric utility distribution system when
the portable generator is operating. Failure to isolate the two electric system power sources from each other by
such means will result in damage to the portable generator and may also result in injury or death to utility power
workers due to backfeed of electrical energy.
• In case of accident caused by electric shock, immediately shut down the source of electrical power. If this is not
possible, attempt to free the victim from the live conductor. AVOID DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE VICTIM. Use
a nonconducting implement, such as a dry rope or board, to free the victim from the live conductor. If the victim is
unconscious, apply first aid and get immediate medical help.
• Do not wear jewelry when working on this equipment. Jewelry can conduct electricity resulting in electric shock,
or may get caught in moving parts resulting in injury.
2 Transfer Switch Installation Guidelines