Generac Power Systems 004701-0 owner manual  Electrical Hazards 

Safety Rules

Recreational Vehicle Generator

•Adequate, unobstructed flow of cooling and ven- tilating air is critical to correct generator opera- tion and is required to expel toxic fumes and fuel vapors from the generator compartment. Without sufficient cooling airflow, the engine/generator quickly overheats, which causes serious damage to the generator. Do not alter the installation or permit even partial blockage of ventilation provi- sions, as this can seriously affect safe operation of the generator.

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

•Inspect the generator regularly, and contact the nearest Authorized Service Dealer immediately for parts needing repair or replacement.

•Before performing any maintenance on the gen- erator, disconnect its battery cables to prevent accidental start up. Disconnect the cable from the battery post indicated by a NEGATIVE, NEG or (–) first. Reconnect that cable last.

•Never use the generator or any of its parts as a step. Stepping on the unit can stress and break parts, and may result in dangerous operating con- ditions from leaking exhaust gases, fuel leakage, oil leakage, etc.

ELECTRICAL HAZARDS 

•The generator covered by this manual produces dangerous electrical voltages and can cause fatal electrical shock. Avoid contact with bare wires, ter- minals, connections, etc., while the unit is running. Ensure all appropriate covers, guards and barriers are in place before operating the generator. If work must be done around an operating unit, stand on an insulated, dry surface to reduce shock hazard.

•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.

•During installation onto the vehicle, have the generator properly grounded (bonded) either by solid mounting to the vehicle frame or chassis, or by means of an approved bonding conductor. DO NOT disconnect the bonding conductor, if so equipped. DO NOT reconnect the bonding conduc- tor to any generator part that might be removed or disassembled during routine maintenance. If the grounding conductor must be replaced, use only a flexible conductor that is of No. 8 American Wire Gauge (AWG) copper wire minimum.

•In case of accident caused by electric shock, imme- diately 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 nonconducting imple- ment, such as a rope or board, to free the victim from the live conductor. If the victim is uncon- scious, 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 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 generator is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations. Following proper installa- tion, do nothing that might alter a safe installation and render the unit in noncompliance with the aforementioned codes, standards, laws and regula- tions.

•Keep a fire extinguisher in the vehicle at all times. Extinguishers rated “ABC” by the National Fire Protection Association are appropriate for use on the recreational vehicle generator electrical sys- tem. Keep the extinguisher properly charged and be familiar with its use. If there are any questions pertaining to fire extinguishers, consult the local fire department.

EXPLOSION HAZARDS 

•Do not smoke around the generator. Wipe up any fuel or oil spills immediately. Ensure that no com- bustible materials are left in the generator com- partment, or on or near the generator, as FIRE or EXPLOSION may result. Keep the area surround- ing the generator clean and free from debris.

•Gasoline is extremely FLAMMABLE and its vapors are EXPLOSIVE. Do not permit smoking, open flame, sparks or any source of heat in the vicinity while handling gasoline. Comply with all laws gov- erning the storage and handling of gasoline.

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