Northern Industrial Tools 10000 BDG - Manual (Page 38)

Summary of Important Safety Information (cont’d)
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barns, sheds, or other semi-enclosed spaces. These spaces can trap poisonous gases, EVEN if you run a fan or
open windows.
• Cooling ventilation. The generator needs adequate, unobstructed flow of air to allow for proper cooling of
engine and generator head so it does not overheat and possibly cause fire. Situate so there is adequate
clearance around generator to allow for cooling airflow. Do not allow debris to accumulate and block airflow.
Keep all objects at least 7 feet away from vent slots.
• Grounding. Always ensure generator is properly grounded to prevent electrical shock. This generator is
equipped with a grounding screw. Always complete the grounding path from the generator to a copper
pipe/rod driven into moist earth to a sufficient depth. Check with an electrician for local grounding
requirements. If a licensed electrician installs the generator with a connection to your building’s electrical
circuit for use as a standby power system, grounding will be complete through the building’s grounding
system.
• Isolate connection to building’s electrical circuit. Never plug the generator directly into a wall outlet. ANY
connection to a building’s electrical system MUST ISOLATE THE GENERATOR FROM UTILITY POWER
via an UL-approved transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician in compliance with all applicable local
building and electrical codes. If the generator is not isolated from the utility power system by such means,
generator output will back feed into the utility power grid. This may result in injury or death to utility power
workers or others who contact the lines during a power outage. It may also cause the generator to explode or
cause fire when utility power is restored.
• Wet conditions. Water conducts electricity. Do not operate generator where it is wet. Operate on a dry
surface under an open, canopy-like structure.
• Hot engine exhaust. Engine exhaust can be extremely hot and cause fire. Refer to your engine manual to
determine safe clearance distance required between hot exhaust and nearby combustible objects.
• Belt tension. Belt slippage can cause static electricity build-up, which may result in sparking. Fire ignition
can result. Follow instructions in this manual for adjusting belt tension.
• CO alarms. Ensure that working, battery-operated or battery back-up carbon monoxide alarms are used in any
dwelling/structure that is in close proximity to the running generator.
• Fire extinguisher. Keep a fire extinguisher rated “ABC” by the National Fire Protection Association nearby.
Keep it properly charged and be familiar with its use.
Safety – Before Use
Know how to operate
• Review safety rules. Before each use of this generator, review the “Rules for Safe Operation.” Failure to
follow these rules may result in serious injury or death.
• Know how to operate. Be thoroughly familiar with all controls and with the proper use of the equipment.
Know how to stop the generator quickly if needed.
• Inspect. Before each use, inspect the generator, engine, and power transmission assembly (belts, pulleys,
couplings). Ensure generator/engine mounting is secure. Check for fuel leaks and loose or damaged parts. Do
not operate the generator with damaged, missing, or broken parts.
Personal protective equipment
• Hearing protection. The use of earplugs or other hearing protection device is recommended for those in close
proximity to the generator while it is operating.
• No loose / dangling apparel. Loose or dangling apparel and long hair can become entangled in
moving/rotating parts. Metal jewelry can conduct electricity. Never wear jewelry or loose-fitting clothing
such as neckties, scarves, or long-sleeved or untucked shirts when operating the generator. Tie back hair and
secure close to head.
Battery Safety
(If engine is equipped with battery start)
Batteries are hazardous because they contain caustic acid, can emit explosive gases, and can cause electric shock.
Caution must be exercised when making connections to a battery to avoid shock and contact with the acid, and to
prevent any sparking that could lead to an explosion. Follow safety rules carefully when connecting battery to
engine:
• Eye/skin protection. Always wear eye protection and protective clothing when connecting or disconnecting
battery.