Grounding
WARNING! Before using the generator make sure that it is properly
grounded according to National, State and local codes per site
conditions. Consult with a competent, qualified electrician. Failure
to properly ground the generator is a potential shock hazard and
may result in injury or death.
Before starting the generator or connecting power tools to the receptacles, make sure that the
generator is properly grounded according to National, State and local codes per site conditions. Ground
the generator using the grounding lug located on the cover plate of the Generator Section (see Fig. 1) to
a grounding electrode such as a ground rod with minimum #8 gauge wire. Resistance to ground should
measure 500 ohms or less.
Note:
As normally configured, the engine/generator assembly is isolated
from the frame using rubber mounts.
Simply placing the frame on the ground will not provide a proper grounding connection.
Per OSHA Fact Sheet, “Grounding Requirements for Portable Generators”
Bonding Versus Grounding…
“Bonding and grounding are separate requirements for generators and other electrical distribution
systems. Grounding means the connection, or the establishment of a connection, of an electric circuit or
equipment to reference ground, which includes the generator’s frame. Bonding is the intentional
connection between the grounded circuit conductor (neutral) and the grounding means for the
generator, which includes the generator’s frame. Thus, effective bonding of the neutral conductor to the
generator’s frame is also a concern for the safe use of the equipment. As with grounding terminal
connections, proper bonding of the neutral terminal of a power receptacle may be confirmed via testing
by a competent electrician with the correct equipment, and the ohmic resistance should measure near
zero and must not be intermittent, which indicates a loose connection.”
As a source of additional information, please see the complete OSHA Fact Sheet
“Grounding
Requirements for Portable Generators”
regarding proper grounding of portable generators included as
a separate flyer in the literature sent with the generator.
Grounding by placing the frame on the ground may be achieved if the engine/generator assembly is
bonded to the frame. If the generator has a wheel kit or is positioned in such a manner that the frame is
elevated and/or isolated from the earth then grounding must be accomplished by using the grounding
lug and a grounding electrode such as a ground rod per National, State and local codes per site
conditions; otherwise, proper grounding will not be achieved.
Consult a competent and qualified electrician when determining how to properly ground or modify
this generator assembly per National, State and Local codes per site conditions.
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