New Generator Labels Emphasize Carbon Monoxide Dangers

The 2005 hurricane season was destructive and devastating, and its aftermath resulted in a record number of deaths associated with generators, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

In response, CPSC partnered with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to develop new warning labels for portable generators that communicate the danger of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning if the generator is misused. The label conveys that using a generator indoors can kill a person in minutes, and uses pictures and symbols to demonstrate proper and improper placement of the generator.

UL incorporated these warning labels into a new set of stringent safety requirements for portable generators. Known as the Outline of Investigation for Portable Engine-Generator Assemblies, UL 2201, it was published in April 2006 and addresses other fire, shock and casualty hazards.

"The danger of carbon monoxide poisoning from portable generators is a very real threat during storm season," said John Drengenberg, Consumer Affairs Manager for UL. "It's a very real threat anytime your power goes out, but if you take the right precautions you can use a generator safely."

In December 2006, hundreds of Washington residents were sickened by CO poisoning after a Pacific Northwestern wind storm knocked out power to millions of homes. The CO fumes were created from generators and barbecue grills being used indoors for heat, according to news reports.

UL recommends that you place the portable generator as far away from the home as possible, and never in the house, a garage or near doors and windows. Being mindful of these guidelines helps ensure that the CO generated through use will not find its way into the home where it can potentially endanger you and your family.

Other recommendations for safely operating generators:

• Install CO alarms in the home. Because carbon monoxide is odorless and cannot be seen, these alarms are your only "warning" signal that poisonous gases may be in your home.
• Use proper electrical connections, such as UL-listed outdoor extension cords, when connecting the generator to run power back to the house. Also note the maximum wattage a generator produces and never exceed that amount with the appliances you plug in. Appliances should have their wattage listed somewhere on the product.
• Limit gasoline storage and look for the UL Mark on gasoline containers. Gasoline expands when heated, producing fumes that can be ignited by the smallest spark. The more gas on hand, the more fumes in the air and the greater the chance of a fire started from even a light switch or static electricity.

Due to increased use of portable generators in residential settings and during inclement weather, UL requirements now include heavy rain and corrosion tests and GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) protection against electric shock. The new UL standards enable generator manufacturers to have their products evaluated against these requirements. The generators that meet these standards carry the UL Mark.

With the requirements now established, UL will continue following the American National Standard Institute's consensus process to officially designate the Outline of Investigation for Portable Engine-Generator Assemblies as an American National Standard.