Recommendations to reduce the risk of electrical and fire hazards and exposure to carbon monoxide while using generators.
Hazard Analysis — Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Problem:
Workers that perform surface grinding or cutting may face hazards from carbon monoxide exposure.Risk Description:
Level of Risk:
Workers that have construction tasks dealing with the incomplete burning of natural gas and any other material containing carbon such as gasoline, kerosene, oil, propane, coal, or wood are at risk of CO exposure. Exposure levels may be exacerbated if workers are performing these tasks in confined spaces or poorly ventilated areas without wearing supplied-air respirators.
Assessment Info:
Assessing general work conditions and environments can help quickly determine whether workers may be potentially exposed to CO in construction.
- When working in trenches, are there nearby heavy equipment in operation?
- Will workers be operating gasoline-powered engines in confined spaces or partially-enclosed areas?
- Will workers be operating welding equipment in confined spaces or partially-enclosed areas?
- Where generators or gasoline-powered engines are located outside, are they placed away from air intakes?
Regulations & Standards:
Federal OSHA Standards are enforced by the U.S. Department of Labor in 26 states. There are currently 22 states and jurisdictions operating complete State plans (covering both the private sector and state and local government employees) and 5 - Connecticut, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and the Virgin Islands - which cover public employees only. If you are working in one of those states or jurisdictions you should ensure that you are complying with their requirements.