Diesel generators, like any complex machinery, carry a lot of risks and safety hazards. Knowing how to mitigate risks and hazards when operating your diesel genset will save you a lot of headache. Not to mention a lot of issues that may arise. Here's how you can mitigate 6 common risks that may occur when using a diesel generator:
1. Towing Risks
Towing a diesel generator may cause harm to people or damage the diesel genset if you are not adequately prepared and careful. Not only can the operator of the diesel generator be hurt, but also other people who are nearby. When towing a diesel generator, it is important that you are diligent prior to towing. For example, towbar connection should be checked to ensure ball location is complete, locking pin is in place, chain is connected and jockey wheel raised. Furthermore, tail lights should be checked to ensure oil, brake and indicator lights are functioning properly. Tail light cord to be raised off ground when not in use. The driver towing the diesel generator should also ensure brake cables are correctly adjusted for the load.
2. Possible Burns Or Electric Shock
Power generators are generally safe to operate. However, incorrect use may result in unsafe outcomes such as burns or electric shock. You must remember that power generators creates a lot of power, and thus they are capable of causing harm. Caution must be exercised. There are three things to look out for when operating diesel generators to ensure you remain safe. The first is to ensure a barrier is erected so that people who may not know what diesel generators are or how they operate may not come close to one to get hurt. They ideally should be distant from work areas and areas where there are a lot of children. Secondly, it is crucial to always shut down your diesel generator before carrying out any inspections or adjustments to them. This will drastically reduce any risk of burns and electric shock since power is off. Finally, always use an earth stake where possible. This will ground the machine against any unexpected electric shocks.
3. Leaking Fuel Causing Fire or Slip Hazards
If you have a robust diesel generator like the ones sold by Gogopower, you are unlikely going to get leaking fuel. However, mishaps do occur. Due to the attributes of diesel, any leaking fuel can cause potential fire outbreaks or slippage of unaware passersby. The best way to mitigate against this risk is to both educate operators and provide signage around the diesel generator. The education and signage should notify operators to check machine daily for fuel and oil leaks. It should also be common practice for operators to switch the diesel engine off before refuelling and make sure fuel cap is replaced. Operators can also ensure that fuel storage is secure and well clear of the genset itself and any hot areas. It may be a good idea for operators to check the ground surrounding the diesel generator daily as well, and have any spills quickly cleaned. When around the vicinity of any diesel generator, ensure that firm footwear to be worn and care taken to prevent slips and trips.
4. Hot Engine Burns
Even though it is unlikely that a Gogopower diesel generator may cause burns by just being hot, it is essential that this risk is mitigated. When near a diesel generator, it is essential that the operator of the diesel generator remains vigilant while they are operating the machine. Any loose clothing should not be near the generator. Carelessness may cause harm due to the complexity of the machine. It may be beneficial for the operator of the diesel generator to wear gloves when touching the machine or performing any engine adjustments.
5. Excessive Noise
Gogopower generators are renowned in the Australian market as being relatively quiet. However, if you purchase a diesel generator that can be excessively loud, it is important that this risk is mitigated. Operators should have processes in place to check the noise levels of each diesel generator when in use. Here, it may be determined whether sound treatment is needed for the diesel generator or the room that the diesel generator is in. For diesel generators that create loud noises when in load, it is important that people near the diesel generator have some form of hearing protection worn. Long term hearing loss may result if adequate hearing protection is not prioritised.