UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS), a leader in applied safety science, has launched a new portable generator testing laboratory in Toronto, aimed at assisting global manufacturers in producing safer generators and reducing the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning for both humans and pets.
Each year, numerous fatalities occur due to incidents involving portable generators, primarily linked to CO poisoning from indoor or partially enclosed use. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), over 200 deaths annually in the U.S. are associated with CO poisoning from consumer products, with approximately 92 of those attributed to portable generators.
“Portable generators are vital for maintaining power during outages caused by wildfires, severe weather, and other emergencies,” said David Lefebvre, regional director of Canada at UL Solutions. “However, they can also pose risks if misused. Our new testing capabilities aim to address unsafe CO emission levels and promote consumer safety.”
The laboratory will evaluate portable generators according to UL 2201, which sets standards for CO emission rates. To earn certification, generators must minimize active CO emissions while running and include a sensor that automatically shuts off the unit upon detecting high CO levels.
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