New US Labeling Requirements for Portable Generators
February 2007 (07B-105)

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a new requirement that all portable generators bear warning labels on both the product and its packaging. The regulation becomes effective May 14, 2007, and applies to any portable generator manufactured or imported on or after that date. The purpose of the regulation is to inform consumers of the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning associated with the use of portable generators. The full text of the regulation can be found in the Federal Register at  http://tinyurl.com/2wekxc and updated information about the label itself is also in the Federal Register at: http://tinyurl.com/yvrotw

General Labeling Specifications: Both the packaging and the on-product label must contain the following information and pictogram to inform the purchaser that:

• Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
• Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide.  This is a poison you cannot see or smell.
• NEVER use inside a home or garage, EVEN IF doors and windows are open.
• Only use OUTSIDE and far away from windows, doors, and vents.

Sample On-Product Label


Additional Requirements for On-Product Labels:  

• The hazard label (above graphic) shall be used on the product.
• The signal word “DANGER” shall be in letters not less than 0.15 inch (3.8 mm) high.
• The signal word “DANGER’ shall appear in white letters on a safety red background.
• The label shall be located on a part of the generator that cannot be removed without use of tools.
• The label shall be in a location that is prominent and conspicuous to the operator.
• The label shall be designed to remain permanently affixed, intact, legible, and largely unfaded through foreseeable use