From the hightech site :Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips For Generator Users Petrol driven generators emit exhaust fumes which contains the deadly gas carbon monoxide, you cant see it, smell it, or taste it: but carbon monoxide, commonly known as the Silent Killer is lethal if the ventilation around the exhaust is restricted or the exhaust fumes are allowed to build up in an enclosed environment. Generators mounted in boxes and run on the sides of caravans and motor homes without adequate ventilation or protection creates a perfect environment to expose people to the Silent Killer. Generators should never be run close to doors, windows, air-conditioning ducts or vents which can admit the deadly gas from generator exhaust. Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poison such as headaches, nausea, vertigo and fatigue, are often mistaken for the flu because the deadly gases go undetected. Extreme expose can lead to unconsciousness and death. If you ever find yourself in this situation of experincing early symptoms of CO exposure its important you seek medical attention immediately and tell medical personnel that you suspect CO poisoning. Be careful when returning to an environment that has been exposed to carbon monoxide as generator exhaust is heavy and difficult to clear and can linger at potentially dangerous levels for hours after the event. If you need to use generators close to enclosed environments, be aware of the risk and take appropriate action to ensure ventilation is not restricted. Always follow the operators instructions and manufactures safety tips that accompany your generator. They have been included for a reason. Generator Use in Qld National Parks Generators are permitted, with restrictions, in a few designated Queensland national parks camping areas. Campers are responsible for checking generator restrictions for each campsite. Only low decibel (dB) generators, up to 2.0Kva, with a maximum noise level output of either 55dB or 65dB at 7 metres are appropriate in QPWS campsites i.e. 55dB is about the noise level of normal conversation, 5065dB = loud conversation, 70dB = vacuum cleaner. Please be aware that the use of generators may be totally prohibited from time to time in some camping areas for environmental (e.g. bird roosting) or safety reasons (e.g. local fire bans) so always check with local QPWS staff. Safety first To reduce the risk of starting a wildfire from your generator, please: locate the generator in an area clear of fuels, dry grass or other combustible objects ensure extension cords do not cross access tracks and are rated for external use ensure you follow the manufacturers guidelines for safe operation of your generator ensure you are present whenever the generator is operating never use the generator on days of local fire ban. Exemptions Qld Parks & Wildlife Service may grant approval to use a small low dB generator (up to 2.0Kva) to charge auxiliary batteries to run a medical appliance. An application form (Generator (low dB) for medical use) accompanied by a current medical certificate stating the medical condition and the necessity of the medical appliance are required (allow 40 business days prior to the activity for processing) Please contact Permit and Licence Management (PALM) for an application form on ph: 1300 130 372 or email:palm@derm.qld.gov Penalties for unauthorised generator use Unauthorised use of a generator may incur penalties or on-the-spot fines. Maximum penalty of 50 penalty units = $5000 (November 2010) QPWS officers may direct a person to turn off a generator or reduce operating hours if they receive complaints or assess the generator is operating louder than the specified noise level, the camper must obey this direction. Penalties apply. "
:"Peter
-- Edited by oldtrack123 on Friday 2nd of September 2011 10:57:46 AM
-- Edited by oldtrack123 on Friday 2nd of September 2011 11:20:30 AM