Portable Generator Safety
Construction and general industry · Ver en español
Talking points
- Never operate a portable generator indoors or in enclosed spaces. Carbon monoxide from the exhaust can reach lethal levels in minutes — even with the door open.
- Position generators at least 20 feet from buildings and away from windows, doors, and air intakes. Set the generator so exhaust cannot reach doors, windows, or air intakes — carbon monoxide has a 50 ppm exposure limit, and keeping exhaust out of occupied spaces is the only reliable way to stay under it.
- Generators must be properly grounded per the manufacturer's instructions and OSHA requirements. Some generators are designed with a separately derived system that requires a grounding electrode.
- Never backfeed a generator into a building's electrical system by plugging it into a wall outlet. Backfeed energizes the utility lines and can electrocute utility workers and neighbors.
- Protect generator outlets with GFCI devices for all 15-, 20-, and 30-amp, 120-volt receptacles. Refuel only when the generator is off and cool.
Ask the crew
Where is our generator positioned right now — and is it far enough from the building and properly grounded?
Standards this talk is built on
A toolbox talk is a short safety briefing. It supports the training a standard requires; it does not replace it.
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Sign-in sheet
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| Name | Signature | Date |
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