FactSheet

Using Portable Generators Safely

Portable generators are internal combustion engines used to generate electricity.
They are useful when temporary or remote power is needed, and are commonly
used during cleanup and recovery efforts following disasters such as hurricanes,
tornadoes, etc. This fact sheet discusses specific hazards inherent with the use
of generators and also provides helpful information to ensure that workers and
others using such equipment remain safe.

Hazards Associated with Generators cords—replace them with appropriately

• Shocks and electrocution from improper use rated cords that use heavier gauge wires.
of power or accidentally energizing other Do not overload a generator; this can lead to
electrical systems. overheating which can create a fire hazard.
• Carbon monoxide from a generator’s exhaust. • Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs),
• Fires from improperly refueling a generator or especially where electrical equipment is used
inappropriately storing the fuel for a generator. in or around wet or damp locations. GFCIs
• Noise and vibration hazards. shut off power when an electrical current is
detected outside normal paths. GFCIs and
Shock and Electrocution extension cords with built-in GFCI protection
The electricity created by generators has can be purchased at hardware stores, do-it-
the same hazards as normal utility-supplied yourself centers, and other locations that sell
electricity. It also has some additional hazards electrical equipment. Regardless of GFCI use,
because generator users often bypass the electrical equipment used in wet and damp
safety devices (such as circuit breakers) that locations must be listed and approved for
are built into electrical systems. The following those conditions.
precautions are provided to reduce shock and • Make sure a generator is properly grounded
electrocution hazards: and the grounding connections are tight.
Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for
• Never attach a generator directly to the proper grounding methods.
electrical system of a structure (home, office, • Keep a generator dry; do not use it in the
trailer, etc.) unless a qualified electrician has rain or wet conditions. If needed, protect a
properly installed the generator with a transfer generator with a canopy. Never manipulate a
switch. Attaching a generator directly to a generator’s electrical components if you are
building electrical system without a properly wet or standing in water.
installed transfer switch can energize wiring • Do not use electrical equipment that has been
systems for great distances. This creates a risk submerged in water. Equipment must be
of electrocution for utility workers and others thoroughly dried out and properly evaluated
in the area. before using. Power off and do not use any
• Always plug electrical appliances directly electrical equipment that has strange odors or
into the generator using the manufacturer’s begins smoking.
supplied cords or extension cords that are
grounded (3-pronged). Inspect the cords Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
to make sure they are fully intact and not Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless,
damaged, cut or abraded. Never use frayed or toxic gas. Many people have died from CO
damaged extension cords. Ensure the cords poisoning because their generator was not
are appropriately rated in watts or amps for adequately ventilated.
the intended use. Do not use underrated
• Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed • Keep portable generators as far away as
spaces such as garages, crawl spaces, and possible from work areas and gathering spaces.
basements. NOTE: Open windows and doors • Wear hearing protection if this is not possible.
may NOT prevent CO from building up when a
generator is located in an enclosed space. Workers’ Rights
• Make sure a generator has 3 to 4 feet of clear Workers have the right to:
space on all sides and above it to ensure
• Working conditions that do not pose a risk
adequate ventilation.
of serious harm.
• Do not use a generator outdoors if its placement
• Receive information and training (in a
near doors, windows, and vents could allow CO
language and vocabulary the worker
to enter and build up in occupied spaces.
understands) about workplace hazards,
• If you or others show symptoms of CO
methods to prevent them, and the OSHA
poisoning—dizziness, headaches, nausea,
standards that apply to their workplace.
tiredness—get to fresh air immediately and
• Review records of work-related injuries
seek medical attention. Do not re-enter the area
and illnesses.
until it is determined to be safe by trained and
• File a complaint asking OSHA to inspect
properly equipped personnel.
their workplace if they believe there is a
Fire Hazards serious hazard or that their employer is not
• Generators become hot while running and following OSHA’s rules. OSHA will keep all
remain hot for long periods after they are identities confidential.
stopped. Generator fuels (gasoline, kerosene, • Exercise their rights under the law without
etc.) can ignite when spilled on hot engine parts. retaliation, including reporting an injury or
• Before refueling, shut down the generator and raising health and safety concerns with their
allow it to cool. employer or OSHA. If a worker has been
• Gasoline and other generator fuels should retaliated against for using their rights, they
be stored and transported in approved must file a complaint with OSHA as soon as
containers that are properly designed and possible, but no later than 30 days.
marked for their contents, and vented. For additional information, see OSHA’s Workers
• Keep fuel containers away from flame page (www.osha.gov/workers).
producing and heat generating devices
(such as the generator itself, water heaters, How to Contact OSHA
cigarettes, lighters, and matches). Do not Under the Occupational Safety and Health
smoke around fuel containers. Escaping Act of 1970, employers are responsible for
vapors or vapors from spilled materials can providing safe and healthful workplaces
travel long distances to ignition sources. for their employees. OSHA’s role is to help
• Do not store generator fuels in your home. ensure these conditions for America’s working
Store fuels away from living areas. men and women by setting and enforcing
standards, and providing training, education,
Noise and Vibration Hazards
and assistance. For more information, visit
• Generator engines vibrate and create noise. www.‌osha.gov or call OSHA at 1-800-321-OSHA
Excessive noise and vibration could cause
(6742), TTY 1-877-889-5627.
hearing loss and fatigue that may affect
job performance.

This is one in a series of informational fact sheets highlighting OSHA programs, policies or standards.
It does not impose any new compliance requirements. For a comprehensive list of compliance
requirements of OSHA standards or regulations, refer to Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
This information will be made available to sensory-impaired individuals upon request. The voice
phone is (202) 693-1999; teletypewriter (TTY) number: (877) 889-5627.

DTSEM FS-3286 09/2005