 General Hazards 

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

R-panel Technical Manual

 SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS – The manufacturer suggests that these rules for safe 

operation be copied and posted in potential hazard areas. Safety should be stressed to all operators and potential operators of this equipment.

Study these SAFETY RULES carefully before install- ing, operating, or servicing this equipment. Become familiar with this manual and all literature pertain- ing to the generator set and related equipment. This equipment can operate safely, efficiently, and reliably only if it is properly installed, operated, and main- tained. Many accidents are caused by failing to follow simple and fundamental rules or precautions.

The manufacturer cannot anticipate every possible circumstance that might involve a hazard. The warn- ings in this manual, and on tags and decals affixed to the equipment, are, therefore, not all-inclusive. If using a procedure, work method, or operating tech- nique the manufacturer does not specifically recom- mend, ensure that it is safe for others. Also make sure the procedure, work method, or operating technique utilized does not render the equipment unsafe.

•For safety reasons, the manufacturer recommends that this equipment be installed and serviced by an Authorized Service Dealer or other qualified electrician or installation technician who is famil- iar with applicable codes, standards, and regula- tions. The operator also must comply with all such codes, standards, and regulations.

•When working on this equipment, remain alert at all times. Never work on the equipment when physically or mentally fatigued.

•Inspect the equipment regularly, and promptly repair or replace all worn, damaged or defective parts, using only factory-approved parts.

•Before performing any maintenance on the gen- erator or any related equipment, disconnect the generator’s battery cables and remove panel fuse to prevent accidental startup. Disconnect the cable from the battery post, indicated by a NEGATIVE, NEG, or (–) first. Reconnect that cable last.

ELECTRICAL HAZARDS 

•Generators produce dangerous electrical voltages and can cause fatal electrical shock. Avoid contact with bare wires, terminals, connections, etc., while the generator and related equipment are running. Ensure all appropriate covers, guards, and barri- ers are in place before operating the equipment. If working around an operating unit, stand on an insulated, dry surface to reduce potential shock hazards.

•Do not handle any kind of electrical device while standing in water, while barefoot, or while hands or feet are wet. DANGEROUS ELECTRICAL SHOCK MAY RESULT.

•If people must stand on metal or concrete while installing, operating, servicing, adjusting, or repair- ing this equipment, place insulative mats over a dry wooden platform. Work on the equipment only while standing on such insulative mats.

•Wire gauge sizes of electrical wiring, cables, and cord sets must be adequate to handle the maxi- mum electrical current (amperage) to which they will be subjected to.

•Before installing or servicing this equipment, make sure that all power voltage supplies are positively turned off at their source. Failure to do so will result in hazardous and possibly fatal electrical shock.

•When installed with an automatic transfer switch, the generator may crank and start anytime, with- out warning. To prevent injuries caused by sudden start-up, disable the generator’s automatic start circuit before working on, or around, the unit. Then, place a “Do Not Operate” tag on the genera- tor control panel and on the transfer switch.

•In case of an accident caused by electric shock, immediately shut down the source of electrical power. If this is not possible, attempt to free the victim from the live conductor. AVOID DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE VICTIM. Use a nonconduct- ing implement, such as, a rope or board, to free the victim from the live conductor. If the victim is unconscious, apply first aid and get immediate medical help.

•Never wear jewelry when working on this equip- ment. Jewelry can conduct electricity, resulting in electric shock, or may get caught in moving com- ponents, causing injury.

FIRE HAZARDS 

•For fire safety, the generator and related equip- ment must be installed and maintained properly. Installation always must comply with applicable codes, standards, laws, and regulations. Adhere strictly to local, state, and national electrical and building codes. Comply with regulations the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established. Also, ensure that the equipment is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and recommenda- tions. Following proper installation, do nothing that might alter a safe installation and render the unit in noncompliance with the aforementioned codes, standards, laws, and regulations.