How to Ensure Your Customers' Safety When Renting Generators

by Jenny Lescohier
Created: January 4, 2013

Generators can be indispensable for providing remote power to operate tools, lights, etc. on construction sites. And overall, they are a relatively safe means to that end. Yet, like any equipment, they can present safety concerns if used improperly.

Overloaded cords can result in fires or equipment damage. Check cord ratings to avoid overloading them by trying to draw more power than they can safely handle.
Overloaded cords can result in fires or equipment damage. Check cord ratings to avoid overloading them by trying to draw more power than they can safely handle.
Accurately calculating power needs is critical to generator safety. A generator specialist can help you determine the unit that will best meet your specific jobsite requirements.
Accurately calculating power needs is critical to generator safety. A generator specialist can help you determine the unit that will best meet your specific jobsite requirements.
The electricity provided by a generator is exactly the same as that supplied by normal utilities and carries with it the same hazards for shock and electrocution.
The electricity provided by a generator is exactly the same as that supplied by normal utilities and carries with it the same hazards for shock and electrocution.
A generator should always be placed with 3 to 4 feet of clearance on all sides. This allows for air movement around the generator and helps increase ventilation and prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
A generator should always be placed with 3 to 4 feet of clearance on all sides. This allows for air movement around the generator and helps increase ventilation and prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
The electricity provided by a generator is exactly the same as that supplied by normal utilities and carries with it the same hazards.
The electricity provided by a generator is exactly the same as that supplied by normal utilities and carries with it the same hazards.
For those working near a generator, the noise level can be high enough to warrant hearing protection. Check the owner's manual and manufacturer's specifications to help determine if your model...
For those working near a generator, the noise level can be high enough to warrant hearing protection. Check the owner's manual and manufacturer's specifications to help determine if your model requires hearing protection.
Many portable generators provide GFCI protection and covered outlets to minimize electrocution hazards.
Many portable generators provide GFCI protection and covered outlets to minimize electrocution hazards.

Improper storage can be dangerous

Another danger associated with generators has more to do with the fuel used to run them that with the generator itself. Where the fuel is stored can bring operators into harm’s way.

Flammable liquids should be handled and stored according to OSHA’s 29 CFR 1926.152 standard. This includes common sense ideas like not storing fuel indoors and storing fuel in properly labeled containers away from the generator and any other heat source. The heat from the generator can cause fuel vapors to ignite even in a sealed container. This is important information for both your customers and your business.

More safety considerations

For those working near a generator, the noise level can be high enough to warrant hearing protection. Check the owner’s manual and manufacturer’s specifications to help determine if your model requires hearing protection. Keep in mind that offering customers hearing protection when it might not be strictly required will not put anyone in danger and might help to protect your customers in the long run. Customers should also be offered all types of personal protection equipment (PPE) like safety glasses, non-conductive gloves and shoes. Remind them to remove jewelry and wear tight-fitting clothing.

Post OSHA electrical safety Quick Cards and Fact Sheets at your rental counter as reminders. You can download them for free at: www.osha.gov/pls/publications/publication.html

Also, explain to employees and customers they should not lean on generators or place objects on or against them. When possible, only one hand should be in contact with a generator. Make use of meter probe holders and insulated tools.

While some generators are meant to be portable, they can still weigh several hundred pounds, so care should be taken during transport. Be sure to check local vehicle speed limits when towing and never drive faster than is safe, no matter what the speed limit is. Tell customers to use chock blocks when the unit is not connected to the tow vehicle.

Also, be aware of moving and hot parts. Don’t put anything, including appendages, near the moving or hot parts of a generator or a compressor. Some models have a voltage selector switch on the inside of the machine so operators can’t change it while the unit is running.

Generators are an important tool to help your customers get their job done, and their use doesn’t have to be a hazard to operators. If a generator is treated with the respect that is typically given to utility-supplied electricity, the injuries to operators can be kept to a minimum.