Change Summary

• An outdoor portable generator, 15 kW or less, supplying an optional standby system does not require a separate disconnecting means, provided a flanged inlet or other cord and plug type connection is used
• However, 445.18 clearly requires the engine driving this portable generator to be capable of being readily shut down

Expert Analysis

During past Code MakingPanel-13 deliberations that added portable generators to the scope of Article 702, a small portable generator connected by means of a flanged inlet and a flexible cord was not considered with regard to a disconnecting means at the building or other structure supplied and as required by 225.31. Small portable generators (mostly residential) are often installed without a disconnecting means where a flanged inlet and flexible cord is used as the connection means. During the last Code cycle, Code Making Panel-13 embraced this concept in the panel statement for Proposal 13-257. At that time, the panel noted, “A suitable disconnecting device is always available with a portable generator – the act of shutting it down.” Revising this section to specifically permit a cord and plug connection to serve as a disconnecting means for portable generators 15 kW or less brings the requirements in line with typical installation practices of today without sacrificing safety. But remember, according to generator requirements of 445.18, the engine driving this 15 kW or less portable generator must be capable of being readily shut down.