Ensuring Safety in Commercial Generator Operation

Your commercial generator power system is essential to maintain uninterrupted business operations when the main power grid fails. These heavy-duty machines can provide you with a reliable source of power to keep your critical business systems running, even in adverse weather conditions. However, operating a large commercial generator carries certain risks, so safety should be a top priority to protect yourself, your employees, and your property. Here are the key safety considerations to keep in mind when using one of these powerful machines at your California facility.

Proper Generator Installation

If you have just purchased a commercial generator, you will need to ensure it is installed properly. It should be set up according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and local building codes. It is essential to place the generator in a well-ventilated area that is at least 15 to 20 feet from any doors, windows, or vents. There should also be enough clearance around the generator to ensure maintenance technicians can work comfortably and to prevent fire hazards. At Valley Power Systems, our technicians are highly trained in generator installation and will ensure that all these factors are considered during the process.

Comprehensive Employee Training

An emergency situation can arise at any time, so it is important to have more than one person who can use the generator at your facility. However, only authorized individuals should handle the power system to ensure safe operation. It is crucial to make sure that each and every employee who may work around the generator receives proper training. Your training program should include generator operation, load management, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. Through understanding the hazards associated with generator usage, your employees will be better equipped to take the proper safety measures in your absence.

Safe Fuel Storage

Fuel spills can quickly turn dangerous in a workplace, leading to devasting fires and injuries. The best way to prevent fuel spills and accidents is to ensure extra fuel is stored away safely. Fuel should be placed in approved containers in a cool, dark place on level ground, and only authorized personnel should handle the fuel. Keep it far away from any equipment that could give off heat or sparks, and ensure you have adequate signage in place for proper re-fueling procedures. To reduce risks, fuel should only be refilled when the generator engine has completely cooled down.

Regular Generator Maintenance

Routine maintenance and inspections play key roles in generator safety. Your generator technician will be able to ensure the unit is in good working condition and inspect it for any performance issues that could cause safety concerns later down the line. Maintenance tasks typically include oil and filter changes, battery inspections, engine exercises, fuel inspections, fluid checks, and more. Having this generator maintenance performed regularly is essential to ensure compliance with generator safety standards.

Valley Power Systems is proud to offer customized maintenance plans to fit your needs. Our technicians take a comprehensive approach to generator maintenance to ensure nothing is overlooked. If they notice any issues during their inspection, they will recommend a cost-effective solution to ensure your generator continues to run safely and efficiently for years to come.

Professional Electrical Work

When your generator needs electrical work, only a professional should handle the task. They will ensure the unit is properly grounded and connected to the building’s electrical system for safe performance. Completing this task without the proper training can be extremely dangerous, resulting in electric shocks or even death. To mitigate electrical risks, you should always work with a qualified electrician for generator electrical installations, repairs, or maintenance.

Hearing Protection

While some units are definitely quieter than others, generators are naturally loud in operation. Employees who may work in close proximity to the generator should wear hearing protection devices to prevent hearing loss. It is also recommended to invest in a sound-attenuating enclosure for your generator to minimize noise pollution at your facility.

Fire Safety

Since generator power systems contain flammable fuels, you should take fire safety measures. This includes placing fire extinguishers near the generator and training all employees on how to use them. Taking this precaution can mitigate your risk of fire while also providing an extra layer of protection for your employees and property.

Carbon Monoxide Detection

Generator exhaust emits a gas called carbon monoxide (CO), which is extremely dangerous because it is virtually undetectable by humans. It is odorless, colorless, and tasteless. Exposure to high levels of CO can be deadly. Many of today’s generators come with CO detectors, which automatically shut down the power system if it senses higher than normal CO levels. However, it is still best to protect yourself and others by installing a CO detector in your facility.

Compliance With Regulatory Standards

To ensure safety, it’s important for businesses using commercial generators to comply with safety regulations, local building codes, and environmental standards. This will ensure that you are operating your generator properly, help you maintain a safe work environment for your employees, and help you avoid any regulatory penalties.

Moisture Prevention

Moisture exposure can result in a host of health and safety risks. Too much moisture in your power system can cause it to rust and corrode, ultimately resulting in power failure. Moisture can also cause your generator to short circuit, which can lead to electrocution or fire. It is extremely dangerous to touch a wet generator. Generators should be installed on a raised concrete pad with a weather-proof enclosure to minimize exposure to the elements. Never spray water directly on the unit. If your generator needs cleaning, it is best to let a professional technician handle the job to ensure safety.

Clean Generator Surroundings

Generators intake the air surrounding them, so it’s important to ensure that the area is as clean as possible. While these power systems use filters to mitigate dirt and debris, these can quickly get clogged if the area around the genset isn’t well maintained. If the generator’s air intake is consistently compromised, it will break down sooner than expected, which puts everyone at risk in an emergency situation.

You should perform a weekly inspection around the generator to clear away any obvious trash, leaves, and other debris. This will go a long way toward keeping your generator clean, efficient, and safe.

Valley Power Systems – Your Partner in Power

Using your commercial generator properly is vital to maintaining a safe and efficient workplace. By following these tips and communicating them effectively to your employees, you will be more prepared to operate your power system with confidence. To learn more about generator safety, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professionals from Valley Power Systems. We’ve been in the business since 1949, and we remain committed to safe generator practices.

Do you need a new commercial generator? We are proud to offer a wide variety of power solutions for business owners throughout the state of California. Whether you need a generator rental, a portable, or a permanent standby system, we’ve got you covered with top-of-the-line models and the latest features. Our highly trained and experienced technicians can also handle your installation, repair, and maintenance needs.

Contact our representatives today to discuss your power options!