The Portable Generator Manufacturers’ Association (PGMA) has introduced a new safety and performance standard, the G300 Safety and Performance standard (ANSI/PGMA G300-2023), to address the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning due to generator misuse. The standard includes CO-shut off technology and has received approval from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

The CO-shut off technology included in the G300-2023 standard is designed to reduce the risk of injury from generator misuse in enclosed spaces. The technology is based on carbon monoxide sensing and has been shown to significantly reduce deaths related to generators operating indoors where CO can accumulate. The G300-2023 standard has modified the existing shut off thresholds to further address injuries associated with generator misuse. The standard will apply to all portable generators 15 kW or smaller, including inverters, open frame, construction generators, and generators fueled by natural gas.

In addition to the CO-shut off technology, the G300 standard includes safety and performance requirements for portable generators. PGMA’s executive director, Susan Orenga, emphasized the association’s goal to reduce carbon monoxide injuries and deaths by preventing generator misuse. Orenga highlighted the importance of the standard’s auto-shutdown feature in promoting consumer safety and reducing carbon monoxide dangers. PGMA’s Take it Outside™ education and awareness campaign will continue to promote safe generator use in conjunction with the new standard.

The auto-shutdown feature in the ANSI/PGMA G300 standard stops the generator from running when carbon monoxide begins to accumulate as a result of improper operation in enclosed spaces. Third-party analysis has shown that this feature results in a significant reduction in fatalities and injuries related to generator misuse. The feature also helps consumers identify proper locations to operate the generator and is cost-effective. The effective date for compliance with the G300-2023 standard is for generators manufactured on or after January 1, 2025.

PGMA is a trade association representing major manufacturers of portable generators in North America. Member companies include American Honda Motor Co., Champion Power Equipment, Generac Power Systems, and Yamaha Motor Corp USA.

Portable generator safety tips from PGMA include keeping generators outdoors, directing generator exhaust away from occupied structures, installing carbon monoxide alarms, and reading and following the manufacturer’s recommended precautions and procedures. If individuals experience symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning while using a generator, they are advised to seek fresh air immediately and call 911 for emergency medical attention.

The new G300 Safety and Performance standard aims to provide a comprehensive and cost-effective solution to reduce the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning due to generator misuse.