Safety
Owner’s Manual for Portable Generator
3
1.6 — Electrical Hazards
•
The generator produces dangerously high voltage
when in operation. Avoid contact with bare wires,
terminals, connections, etc., while the unit is run-
ning, even on equipment connected to the genera-
tor. Ensure all appropriate covers, guards and
barriers are in place before operating the genera-
tor.
•
The National Electric Code (NEC) requires the
frame and external electrically conductive parts of
the generator be properly connected to an
approved earth ground. Local electrical codes may
also require proper grounding of the generator.
Consult with a local electrician for grounding
requirements in the area.
•
Use a ground fault circuit interrupter in any damp
or highly conductive area (such as metal decking
or steel work).
•
Do not use worn, bare, frayed or otherwise dam-
aged electrical cord sets with the generator.
•
Before performing any maintenance on the genera-
tor, disconnect the engine starting battery (if
equipped) to prevent accidental start up. Discon-
nect the cable from the battery post indicated by a
NEGATIVE, NEG or (–) first. Reconnect that cable
last.
•
In case of accident caused by electric shock,
immediately shut down the source of electrical
power. If this is not possible, attempt to free the vic-
tim from the live conductor.
AVOID DIRECT CON-
TACT WITH THE VICTIM
. Use a non-conducting
implement, such as a rope or board, to free the vic-
tim from the live conductor. If the victim is uncon-
scious, apply first aid and get immediate medical
help.
1.7 — Fire Hazards
•
Gasoline is highly FLAMMABLE and its vapors are
EXPLOSIVE. Do not permit smoking, open flames,
sparks or heat in the vicinity while handling gaso-
line.
•
Never fill fuel tank indoors. Comply with all laws
regulating storage and handling of gasoline.
•
Do not overfill the fuel tank. Always allow room for
fuel expansion. If tank is over-filled, fuel can over-
flow onto a hot engine and cause FIRE or an
EXPLOSION. Never store generator with fuel in
tank where gasoline vapors might reach an open
flame, spark or pilot light (as on a furnace, water
heater or clothes dryer). FIRE or EXPLOSION may
result. Allow unit to cool entirely before storage.
•
Wipe up any fuel or oil spills immediately. Ensure
that no combustible materials are left on or near
the generator. Keep the area surrounding the gen-
erator clean and free from debris and keep a clear-
ance of five (5) feet on all sides to allow for proper
ventilation of the generator.
•
Do not insert objects through unit’s cooling slots.
•
Do not operate the generator if connected electri-
cal devices overheat, if electrical output is lost, if
engine or generator sparks or if flames or smoke
are observed while unit is running.
•
Keep a fire extinguisher near the generator at all
times.
1.8 — Unit Identification Label
See Figure 1-3. Information from the Unit Identification
Label is required when requesting information or ordering
service parts. For quick and easy reference, record the
Serial and Model numbers printed on the label in the
space provided on the front cover.
Figure 1-3. Unit Identification Label
(000104)
DANGER
Electrocution. Water contact with a power source,
if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
(000105)
DANGER
Explosion and Fire. Fuel and vapors are extremely
flammable and explosive. Add fuel in a well
ventilated area. Keep fire and spark away. Failure to
do so will result in death or serious injury.
000366
