SAIPAN — The Division of Environmental Quality has issued an emergency public notice providing guidance on the importation and use of gasoline- and diesel-powered generators during Typhoon Sinlaku recovery, while the Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality is circulating a nine-point safety guide for residents operating generators at home.
DEQ said the notice is guidance only and does not create new regulatory requirements. The agency said it will exercise enforcement discretion on generator certification during the recovery period, recognizing that emergency conditions may require the immediate use of available equipment to protect life, health and property.
Diesel generators should be equipped with EPA-certified engines. Gasoline-powered portable generators are manufactured to meet EPA emission standards at the time of production. Most small portable generators used during power outages are generally exempt from air permitting requirements, including diesel units under 200 horsepower and gasoline units under 25 horsepower used during outages or for maintenance.
Commercial, industrial or extended non-emergency generator use may be subject to air quality permitting requirements. Operators planning long-term use are encouraged to contact DEQ for guidance.
On the safety side, DEQ and BECQ reminded residents that generator exhaust contains deadly carbon monoxide and urged the following precautions: keep generators at least 20 feet from structures with exhaust directed away from homes; never operate a generator inside a home, garage or enclosed area; do not plug generators into wall outlets; turn off and cool the generator before refueling; store fuel in approved containers away from living areas; use heavy-duty outdoor-rated extension cords; keep generators clear of walls, dry vegetation and flammable materials; watch for dizziness, headaches or nausea as signs of carbon monoxide exposure and go outside immediately if symptoms occur; and keep children and pets away from generators, which become extremely hot during operation.
For more information contact the DEQ Clean Air Program at (670) 664-8500/12.
