Choosing a location
Portable combustion generators must be used outdoors, preventing exhaust from reaching doors, windows or ventilation inlets. Opening a door does not make a garage or basement safe. Carbon monoxide cannot be ruled out by the absence of a smell, and exhaust can enter nearby occupied spaces.
The location must maintain manufacturer-required ventilation and protect equipment from conditions for which it is not designed. An improvised rain enclosure may trap gases or heat. Access by other people, contact with hot surfaces and exposure to noise also require consideration when selecting the position.
Prevent dangerous backfeeding
Generated electricity creates Electrical risk just as utility electricity does. Supplying an installation by plugging the generator into a wall socket can energise circuits and lines others believe are disconnected. Connection to a building requires a properly designed transfer arrangement and installation by competent personnel.
Earthing, protective devices and the connection arrangement depend on the generator and intended use. Driving an earth rod or adding a residual-current device is not a universal solution. These features must be assessed together against manufacturer instructions and local requirements before electricity is supplied to connected equipment.
Loads, cables and fuel
Expected loads and cables must be compatible with connected equipment. Check damage, connectors and routing to avoid crushing, water exposure and trip hazards. Repeated protective trips require investigation; defeating a protective device does not increase the generator’s safe capacity or resolve the underlying fault.
Refuel only with the engine stopped and cooled, following its instructions. Store fuel in suitable labelled containers away from ignition sources. Spills, loose fuel lines or signs of overheating must be addressed before the equipment is returned to use, including after transport or rough handling.
Manage temporary operation
Assign responsibility for checks, connection and fault reporting. After transport or relocation, reassess operating conditions rather than simply checking that the engine starts. Suspected exhaust exposure requires leaving the affected area and obtaining emergency assistance. Prevent re-entry until trained and appropriately equipped personnel have assessed the situation; an unplanned rescue attempt can expose additional people.
