Engine and Generator Safety

Engine Safety Procedures

  1. When working on an engine clutch or transmission, it should be locked in a neutral position.
  2. Utilize a lockout/tagout safety system.
  3. When making repairs on an engine, the job is not finished until all guards on moving equipment have been put back on. The most common practice is putting guards on after we get in the hole. What happens then is the guard is left off several days and employees are exposed to moving equipment.
  4. Check fan blades and pulleys weekly for cracks.
  5. Keep all Emergency Shut Down (ESD) devices in good working order. If an engine develops over-speed due to rack, you can shut engine down before it blows up.  In case of the accumulation of gas around engine, you can shut it down.
  6. There have been more fires in engine rooms due to leaking fuel lines. All fuel lines should be checked several times a tour.  Change out fuel lines when they become worn.
  7. Never remove a radiator cap when the engine has overheated. Cool radiator down with water by spraying the radiator coils before opening radiator cap.
  8. All engine exhaust should be guarded or insulated to prevent burns to employees.

Generator Safety

  1. All guards and covers should be in place before generator is put in service.
  2. Brass ground rod should be driven in ground 3 ft (1M) and connected to generator house and to brass ground rod.
  3. All electric wires should be insulated as recommended by manufacturer.
  4. Lighting should be adequate and kept clean.
  5. All switching gear should have dielectric mats for employees to stand on when switching generators.
  6. Switches should be labeled.
  7. All generators should be oiled or greased according to manufacturer’s specifications.
  8. Check bolts that secure the generator to the engine weekly.
  9. Display High Voltage signs in areas adjacent to generators.
  10. Never wash down generator house (floors) while generators are in operation.
  11. Be sure all electrical connections are secure.
  12. Lockout/Tagout supplies should be readily available and used when isolating equipment.
  13. Electric connections should be protected when cords are not attached.
  14. Air compressor tanks, diesel tanks, etc. should have proper warning labels on them.
  15. Air compressor pressure relief valves should be working properly and discharged away from working area.