Electrical Hazards - Generac Portable Products GP Series Owner's Manual

Safety Rules
GENERAL HAZARDS
• NEVER operate in an enclosed area, in a vehicle, or indoors
EVEN IF doors and windows are open.
• For safety reasons, the manufacturer recommends that the
maintenance of this equipment is carried out by an Authorized
Dealer. Inspect the generator regularly, and contact the nearest
Authorized Dealer for parts needing repair or replacement.
• Operate generator only on level surfaces and where it will not be
exposed to excessive moisture, dirt, dust or corrosive vapors.
• Keep hands, feet, clothing, etc., away from drive belts, fans,
and other moving parts. Never remove any fan guard or shield
while the unit is operating.
• Certain parts of the generator get extremely hot during
operation. Keep clear of the generator until it has cooled to
avoid severe burns.
• Do NOT operate generator in the rain.
• Do not alter the construction of the generator or change
controls which might create an unsfe operating condition.
• Never start or stop the unit with electrical loads connected
to receptacles AND with connected devices turned ON. Start
the engine and let it stabilize before connecting electrical
loads. Disconnect all electrical loads before shutting down the
generator.
• Do not insert objects through unit's cooling slots.
• When working on this equipment, remain alert at all times.
Never work on the equipment when physically or mentally
fatigued.
• Never use the generator or any of its parts as a step. Stepping
on the unit can stress and break parts, and may result in
dangerous operating conditions from leaking exhaust gases,
fuel leakage, oil leakage, etc.
• On electric start models, disconnect the POSITIVE (+) battery
cable from the engine starter OR the NEGATIVE (-) battery
cable from the battery terminal, whichever is easier, before
transporting the generator.
EXHAUST & LOCATION HAZARDS
• Never operate in an enclosed area or indoors! NEVER use in
the home, in a vehicle, or in partly enclosed areas such as
garages, EVEN IF doors and windows are open! ONLY use
outdoors and far from open windows, doors, vents, and in an
area that will not accumulate deadly exhaust.
2
• The engine exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which
you cannot see or smell. This poisonous gas, if breathed in
sufficient concentrations, can cause unconsciousness or even
death.
• Adequate, unobstructed flow of cooling and ventilating air
is critical to correct generator operation. Do not alter the
installation or permit even partial blockage of ventilation
provisions, as this can seriously affect safe operation of the
generator. The generator MUST be operated outdoors.
• This exhaust system must be properly maintained. Do nothing
that might render the exhaust system unsafe or in noncompliance
with any local codes and/or standards.
• Always use a battery operated carbon monoxide alarm indoors,
installed according to the manufacturers instructions.
• If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak after the generator has
been running, move to fresh air IMMEDIATELY. See a doctor, as
you could have carbon monoxide poisoning.

ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

• The generator produces dangerously high voltage when in
operation. Avoid contact with bare wires, terminals, connections,
etc., while the unit is running, even on equipment connected
to the generator. Ensure all appropriate covers, guards and
barriers are in place before operating the generator.
• Never handle any kind of electrical cord or device while
standing in water, while barefoot or while hands or feet are wet.
DANGEROUS ELECTRICAL SHOCK MAY RESULT.
• Local electrical codes may also require proper grounding of
the generator. Consult with a local electrician for grounding
requirements in the area.
• Do not use worn, bare, frayed or otherwise damaged electrical
cord sets with the generator.
• Before performing any maintenance on the generator, disconnect
the engine starting battery (if equipped) to prevent accidental
start up. Disconnect the cable from the battery post indicated
by a NEGATIVE, NEG or (–) first. Reconnect that cable last.
• 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 non-conducting
implement, such as a rope or board, to free the victim from the
live conductor. If the victim is unconscious, apply first aid and
get immediate medical help.