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Staying Safe During a Power Outage
We're in peak hurricane season and one of the problems faced by people in the path of such storms is the loss of electricity. Many businesses and homes have back-up generators at the ready, not just for hurricane season but year-round. But these machines are not without their hazards. So here's a Safety Talk to share with your workers on the dangers of fixed and portable generators and a few other safety considerations to be mindful of in the event of a power outage.
A Warning on Electrical Generators
Electrical generators can save lives by maintaining heat, light, refrigeration and medical equipment during a power outage. But these devices also have hazards that you need to be aware of.
Dangers of Permanent Standby Generators
A permanent standby generator is often wired directly into the building's wiring. If you work in a plant with a permanent standby generator, make sure you know of any duties associated with it. Only well-trained and authorized personnel should be assigned start-up duties.
The explanation for this is that safeguards may be in place to prevent power from the utility system entering unexpectedly, and to prevent the generator from energizing the utility company's lines. Some standby generators must be started manually following a power outage. So if you're not trained, qualified or authorized, you shouldn't interfere with any of this equipment.
Dangers of Portable Generators
Portable generators are also used at home and the workplace to power essential equipment during power outages. Improper installation and use can endanger occupants of the building, utility workers and others.
When using a portable generator, follow these precautions:
- Choose the correct generator for the job. Do not exceed the load rating recommended by the manufacturer.
- Carefully follow all manufacturer's advice, including instructions about grounding.
- Connect the appliance you want to use directly to the generator.
- Do not connect the generator directly to the building wiring system. This can cause electricity to backfeed into the utility electrical system, endangering utility workers and other users.
- Run the generator only in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide from burning fuel. This odorless, invisible gas can kill if it accumulates indoors. Place the generator outside in a dry location away from air intakes.
- Use caution when handling and storing fuel. Turn off the generator for refueling because gasoline vapors can catch fire and explode if ignited by a spark.
- Use the correct size of extension cords and keep them free of damage and moisture. You must use three-prong cords for safe grounding. Do not allow cords to become tripping hazards and don't run them under rugs where they can overheat and start a fire.
How to Prepare for Power Outages
Consider these further suggestions for safety during a power outage:
1. Gather supplies. Stock your home with:
- Drinking water;
- Food that does not need cooking or refrigeration;
- Special needs items for family members, such as medicine or diapers;
- Flashlights and batteries; and
- A battery-powered radio for emergency information.
If a storm is on the way, keep your vehicle fuel topped up in case the gasoline pumps are without power.
2. Prepare a safe source of heat. Have a safe alternative way to heat your home in case of a power failure. Never use a barbecue for a heater because of the danger of carbon monoxide. If you do not have a way to keep your home warm enough, go to the home of a friend or relative, or check into a shelter until the power goes back on.
Conclusion
During hurricane season or any other part of the year, power outages can put you and your fellow co-workers or family members at risk of injuries. So it's essential to plan ahead about how you'd react in the case of a blackout. If your preparations involve the use of generators, understand the dangers involved and plan accordingly. Following the steps set out in this Safety Talk should result in making a power outage an inconvenience rather than a hazardous experience.
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Also a good time to check Emergency Lighting! Not just the monthly check one does BUT see how well they illuninate important areas (hallways, egress routes, emergency areas, etc) Are they 'aimed' correctly, has a building modification made one site less important but another one vital, etc. We always review the placement of our Emergency Lighting when there is an outage due to thunderstorms or high wind (fortunately were too far inland to worry about hurricanes but do have Tornadoes!)