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Free toolbox talk: portable generators and carbon monoxide
A one-page safety talk for the time of year when crews close up buildings and bring generators, gas saws and heaters closer to the work. Why carbon monoxide is dangerous, six key points, three questions for the crew and a sign-in block. Read it here or print this page.
Portable Generators and Carbon Monoxide
Why it matters. Generators make power where there is none, and also make carbon monoxide, an odorless gas that can kill in enclosed spaces within minutes.
Key points
- Never run a generator, gas saw or other engine indoors, or in a garage, basement or crawlspace, or near open windows and doors.
- Place generators outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents, with 3 to 4 ft of clear space on all sides and above (OSHA 4105).
- CO symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea and confusion. Get the person to fresh air and call 911.
- Use GFCI protection or an assured grounding program on generator power, as required (1926.404(b)(1)).
- Shut the generator off and let it cool before refueling. Store fuel in approved containers away from the engine.
- Keep the generator dry and use cords rated for the load.
Ask the crew
- Where will our generator sit today, and how far is it from doors and windows?
- What are the signs that someone is getting CO poisoning?
- Who refuels, and where is the fuel stored?
Reference: 29 CFR 1926.404(b)(1) | OSHA 4105: Preventing CO Poisoning While Working with Portable Generators
Sign-in
Date ______ · Job site ______ · Talk leader ______
| # | Printed name | Signature | Company / trade |
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The printable PDF has 12 sign-in lines.
How to run it
- Hold it the first day a generator or gas-powered tool is used near an enclosed or partly enclosed space.
- Walk to where the generator will sit today and look at the doors, windows and vents around it together.
- Agree who refuels it, when it gets shut off to cool, and where the fuel cans are kept.
- Ask the three questions, let the crew answer, then have everyone sign and file the page with your safety records.
A training aid that supplements your safety program. Not a substitute for required training, a written safety program, a site-specific hazard assessment, or a competent or qualified person where OSHA requires one. OSHA references are federal (29 CFR 1926 and related parts), checked October 2026; state-plan states may have stricter rules. Not legal advice.
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