Electrical Hazards; Fire Hazards - Generac Power Systems 005981-2 Owner's Manual

Safety Rules
• 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.
This generator is equipped with a spark arrestor muffler. The
spark arrestor must be maintained in effective working order
by the owner/ operator. In the State of California, a spark
arrestor is required by law (Section 4442 of the California
Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws.
Federal laws apply on federal lands.
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.
• 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.
2
NOTE:
• Always use a battery operated carbon monoxide alarm indoors,
installed according to the manufacturer's 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.
• The National Electric Code (NEC) requires the frame and external
electrically conductive parts of the generator be properly
connected to an approved earth ground. Local electrical codes
may also require proper grounding of the generator. Consult
with a local electrician for grounding requirements in the area.
• Use a ground fault circuit interrupter in any damp or highly
conductive area (such as metal decking or steel work).
• 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.

FIRE HAZARDS

• Gasoline is highly FLAMMABLE and its vapors are EXPLOSIVE.
Do not permit smoking, open flames, sparks or heat in the
vicinity while handling gasoline.
• Never add fuel while unit is running or hot. Allow engine to cool
completely before adding fuel.
• Never fill fuel tank indoors. Comply with all laws regulating
storage and handling of gasoline.
• Do not overfill the fuel tank. Always allow room for fuel
expansion. If tank is over-filled, fuel can overflow onto a hot
engine and cause FIRE or an EXPLOSION. Never store generator
with fuel in tank where gasoline vapors might reach an open
flame, spark or pilot light (as on a furnace, water heater or
clothes dryer). FIRE or EXPLOSION may result. Allow unit to
cool entirely before storage.
• Wipe up any fuel or oil spills immediately. Ensure that no
combustible materials are left on or near the generator. Keep the
area surrounding the generator clean and free from debris and
keep a clearance of five (5) feet on all side to allow for proper
ventilation of the generator.