Portable generators are vital to the building trades, acting as a convenient, easy-to-move source of spot power on job sites. However, like any tool, safe and proper use is critical to a safe outcome. With portable generators, that means never operating a generator indoors or in any enclosed spaces, thereby limiting exposure to carbon monoxide (CO). Some crews might be tempted to bring generators inside, believing an unfinished structure provides adequate ventilation. But the risks are real and, until recently, there was no comprehensive industry standard to ensure safety.
That changed with the updated ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 Safety and Performance of Portable Generators Standard (G300), which includes a requirement that portable generators include CO shut-off technology. While each manufacturer’s approach is unique, all generators that meet the standard automatically sense CO levels that approach dangerous levels, shutting off the portable generator engine before CO concentrations exceed 800 ppm. Once the engine has been shut down, a notification light remains illuminated for a minimum of 5 min. after shutoff occurs.
Extensive testing in indoor, outdoor, and “real world” situations demonstrates that these shutoffs will prevent more than 99% of fatalities from exposure to CO from a portable generator.
Susan Orenga, executive director of the Portable Generator Manufacturers’ Association, says, “Nearly all fatalities associated with misuse of portable generators happen inside. We want to ensure consumers understand the issues of misusing a portable generator, so PGMA developed its extensive Take it Outside™ education and awareness campaign.”
Orenga stresses nothing is more important than proper use, but adds, “Having the shutoff requirement in the G300 standard is a potentially lifesaving failsafe.”
While CO safety is the big news in the updated standard, the G300 standard contains a comprehensive guide for every facet of portable generator safety and performance, covering topics like general electrical construction requirements, properly guarding moving parts, preventing mechanical hazards and electrical shock hazards, and strict testing that manufactures have to pass, including temperature tests, drop tests, and more.
To read the full PGMA/ANSI G300-2018 standard, visit www.pgmaonline.com.
