Portable Power Generator Use
Purpose:
The University of Michigan-Dearborn (UM-Dearborn) implements spill prevention and fire safety policies to ensure the safety of University faculty, staff, students, and visitors as well as the protection of the environment when a fuel generator is being utilized. The University is required to comply with the University Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC) and University Storm Water permit to prevent discharges of oils and other pollutants into the nearby waterways. The University also follows safety guidelines established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to assist in fire safety around the University community.
Definitions:
Fuel – Diesel, gasoline, propane, natural gas, etc.
Procedure:
To ensure the safety of the environment and the University Community, the following must be followed if a fuel generator is used on UM-Dearborn property:
Placement of fuel generators should be away from any storm drains. Discharge of fuel or other pollutants to storm drains, is prohibited, as these drains flow directly to the river without treatment.
Fuel storage tanks must have secondary containment or have a double walled storage tank.
If secondary containment is not feasible, a spill kit must be kept next to the generator in the event of an emergency.
Each generator shall be provided with a nameplate giving the manufacturer’s name, rated frequency, etc., in accordance with article 445 of the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70).
A serviceable, sealed, and proof of inspection tagged ABC fire extinguisher, minimum rating 4A60: BC must be available in the immediate area at all times the generator is in use. Department of Environmental Health and Safety Subject: Use of Fuel Generators on Campus Date: September 2014 Revision: 4 Page: 1 of 2
Responsible personnel for the generator must be present during ALL fuel transfers to ensure no leaks or spills. Generators must be turned off while being fueled. Fuel must be appropriately stored in accordance with requirements of NFPA 30 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code.
Portable generators may not be used inside of membrane type structures or buildings. Generators must be positioned no closer than 20 feet from any canopy, tent, or other membrane type structure.
Generators shall be isolated and secured from contact with the public by fencing, enclosure, or other approved means.
Generator fuel tanks and supplemental fuel tanks must be secured by locked fencing, padlock on fill port, or other approved means.
Power cords/cables must meet all requirements of the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) and ma not be placed across aisles of walkways.
Generators must be placed so that they do not obstruct egress from any buildings or interfere with fire department access requirements.
All generators must be inspected by a University Electrical Inspector of University Master Electrician prior to use.
Generators must be equipped with a scrubber and use biodiesel fuel.
Fueling must be done in the early morning hours when the least amount of students are on campus.
Storage tanks are not permitted.
In the event of a spill or leak, immediately call the Department of Public Safety at 313-593-5333.