Generator Safety

Power generators are designed to supply electricity to your homes, offices, and facilities in case of power breakdown or interruption in electric power supply from city source. In some cases, the power generator works as the primary source of electric power where any city source is not available. In this article, we will discuss some very important aspects of power generator safety which must be considered during the selection of power generators, installation & connecting power generators, maintenance of power generators, and operation of the power generator.

Safety during the Selection of Power Generator

The selection of a power generator is one of the most important steps in our all safety of power generators because it led the foundation of the safety approach toward overall safety in the area for which the generator is being selected. Power generator selection must be based on the consumption of current electric energy and a 25% increase in future anticipation of energy consumption. If we select a power generator of 100KVA while our consumption is 50KVA it bigger than our requirement which results in the overconsumption of fuel and increases the cost of electric power generation. Similarly, if we select a power generator of 75KVA and our utilization of 50KVA it is the best fit for the supply of energy. Now the question is what is safety in the selection of a power generator? If we select the wrong power generator it can overburden or unburden the supply lines which can increase fire risk. Also, it is not healthy for electric appliances to supply them with high or low voltages.

Safety during Installation & Connecting Power Generator

Installation of a power generator is one of the important steps where we are required to compliance safety standards and regulations. To under these requirements, few questions can be raised;

1. Where to place the power generator?
2. What is Safe distance from the facility building?
3. Does it require a firm foundation/shock/vibration reducer?
4. Does it require an external fuel supply stank?
5. Does earthing need to connect the power generator?
6. Where to install electric DBs and changeover devices?
7. Does the generator need to be installed inside a purposeful generator room?
8. Do generator operator space is designed?
9. Is there enough space for maintained work?
10. Do Lighting is considered in design?
11. Do ventilation is considered in design?
12. Do storage space considered in the design?
13. Safety/warning signs considered in design?
14. Do the area around the power generator protected with anti-shock mats?
15. Do the appropriate type and the number of fire extinguishers placed nearby the power generator?
16. Does a carbon monoxide detector require?

If we considered all the above questions in space readiness, we will cover all risks associated with the institution and connection of the power generator. There are some standards that help us to get appropriate answers to the above question that includes IBC, NFPA E 10, or Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

Note: “Remember power generator must be 20 feet away from the building or ¼ of the building’s height”.

Once the power generator is installed and connected than commissioning and testing phase must be completed to check the compatibility of the generator with the supply lines, electrical installations, and electric appliances. Document all findings for future records and references and keep them in a safe place.

Note: “For maintenance 3-4 ft. space must be available around the power generator”.

Safety during Maintenance of Power Generator

Power generators require regular maintenance like other machines and safety is also important in it. During maintenance work, the power generator must be in testing mode and all inbound and outbound circuit breakers must be isolated. The tool used for maintenance must be as per the power generator manufacturer's recommendations. The area must be barricaded if maintenance is done during rush hours so that any unauthorized entry into the power generator area. Lastly, power generator maintenance information must communicate in advance to important offices so that any emergency can be managed in a timely manner. After maintenance, the area should be boxed up clean, and clear from all hazards and connected to all isolated breakers. Sign the maintenance report with all findings and recommendations if any.

Note: “Logout/tag devices should be used for isolation power generator”.

Safety during Operating a Power Generator

It is very common that most accidents happened during power generator operation/running time. There are multiple hazards associated with power generator operation that includes from both sides i.e operator/human error or mechanical failure. There must be written protocols for power generator operation and must be available to the operator. The protocols must full fill routine operations and emergency procedures required during power generator operation.

Few tips for operators need to consider during power generator operation;

1. Check the fuel level before starting the power generator?
2. Check the coolant level before starting the power generator?
3. Check battery terminals before starting the power generator?
4. Check if any interlock is on hold position and release?

Once all these checks are done to start the power generator and supply load to DBs – during operation check temperature and power generator behavior so that can be stopped if anything goes wrong. 

Power generator Operator Safety

The person who operates the generator life is at high risk if safety is not considered. Here are a few tips which will help to ensure the safety of the power generator operator. 

1. The power generator operator must be trained and certified – so that technical errors could be avoided.
2. A seating space must be provided near the emergency stop button so that operator could monitor the power generator during the operation
3. Person protective equipment includes gloves (working & high voltage), Ear Muff (if the noise level is more than 85 dB), safety goggles, safety helmet, dust mask, safety shoes (oil resistant), and protective clothing.
4. Is there a welfare facility for the operator
5. Train on firefighting using the fire extinguisher
6. The working hours define (maximum 8 hours)
7. Provide emergency communication facility
8. Active supervision of the operator ensures everything is in place and operates in a defined manner

If all the above points cover operator safety can be ensured and maintain operation without delays or safety noncompliances.

Conclusion

It is concluded that power generator safety is not a single-step job – it is composed of multiple stages and a holistic approach. Every aspect of power generator management is equally important therefore we must keep safety on high priority from the planning phase to the operation phase to ensure the safety of our power generator and associated people.