How to protect yourself when using generators: tips from the State Emergency Service
Rescuers have developed clear advice and instructions that must be strictly followed so that the use of generators as a source of backup and, now, the main power supply is safe, efficient and reliable, because the winter period is just beginning.
So, the main recommendations for the use of power generators:
First of all, the SNS offers to purchase only certified products only at licensed points of sale and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Placement
The generator must be placed outside the building (preferably under a canopy) or in a separate technical spacious room with working ventilation and the possibility of ventilation.
The distance from the generator to adjacent objects (buildings, walls with windows, cars, etc.) is at least 6 meters. It is allowed to install an electric generator near solid non-combustible walls (without windows) at a distance of at least 1 m. The generator must be installed on a flat, reliable platform.
Any damage to electrical conductors or equipment should be remedied immediately.
Connections
When connecting the generator to consumers, you must follow the appropriate instructions. The connection must be carried out by a qualified electrician.
It is necessary to check the technical characteristics, specification and power of this generator model and wear dry protective clothing (rubber gloves, shoes with rubber soles, preferably means of protection of the organs of vision and hearing) before connecting. In the process, it is worth using high quality extension cords and cables, without damage and cuts. There must be a grounding contact on the plugs of electrical appliances.
Operation
Before starting the generator, check the condition of the wiring and repair the damage. It is also necessary to eliminate the twisting of wires, contact with hot surfaces, the presence of corrosion on the contacts. The electrical elements of the generator should be grounded. Avoid contact of generator power circuits with water and other objects.
It is undesirable to turn on the generator in conditions of high humidity, during rain or snow. It is necessary to avoid contact with rotating generator elements.
During the operation of the electric generator, monitor its technical condition. In case of detection of leaks of fuel, lubricant or extraneous sounds indicating its malfunction, immediately turn it off and de-energize it.
Storage of PMM
Fuel and lubricant for the generator must be stored separately, at a distance of at least 10 m from adjacent objects (buildings, cars) in special canisters. It is safest to store them in a ventilated, secluded area with a canopy and restricted access to strangers and children. Do not allow fuel spillage, close the canisters tightly. In the event of a fuel spill, sprinkle this place with sand, which is then collected in a metal box or bucket.
Actions during the ignition of the generator
In case of ignition of the generator, each citizen is obliged to:
immediately inform the State Emergency Service by phone 101 and name the location of the object, indicate the place of ignition, the situation at the fire, the presence of people, name your name;
de-energize the generator;
take (if possible) measures to extinguish (localize) the fire with primary means of fire extinguishing. It is better to use fire extinguishers to extinguish class B fire (combustion of liquid substances or solids that melt). The specified information can be found on its label. In other situations, it is possible to use a tool or a thick blanket to cover the generator);
if necessary, call other emergency and rescue services;
organize a meeting of the units of the State Emergency Service, assist them in choosing the shortest way to get to the fire station.
Prohibited when using generators:
make changes to the generator design;
place the generator in a closed room without ventilation, as well as in an explosive environment, in basements and in rooms with possible occupancy of people;
smoke and use sources of open fire during refueling and operation of the generator;
open the tank lid with the generator running;
refueling the generator with the engine running or not cooled;
combine generators into a circuit;
being near the generator to strangers or animals;
mix different types of lubricants and fuels;
exceed the maximum permissible current of the generator output connector.
State Emergency Service of Ukraine
