Backup generators are a vital component for many commercial facilities, but they also require regular service and maintenance. Generator access stairs and platforms for commercial buildings allow service technicians to safely reach equipment in order to inspect, repair, and operate generators. Well-designed access also ensures facilities stay compliant with safety regulations while streamlining processes for regular maintenance and emergency situations.
Commercial generators are frequently placed on generator pads, rooftops, mezzanines and other areas where ground level entry is not feasible. Without purpose-built stairs and platforms, workers may need to use makeshift access such as ladders which can create additional fall hazards. Specialized generator access stairs and platforms allow technicians to safely reach equipment for routine maintenance and inspections.
Why Generator Access Matters
Generators need to be periodically inspected, tested, refueled and maintained. Facility managers should make sure that there is safe access to the generator so technicians can reach vital controls and components such as the control panel, fuel system, exhaust system and engine compartment.
Access also becomes crucial if there is an emergency and the backup generator needs to be started or serviced. Generator access platforms and stairs minimize the risk of accessing the equipment and help technicians perform necessary work quickly and safely.
In hospitals, manufacturing, data centers, telecom facilities, utilities and government buildings uptime can be mission critical. Having custom generator access installed helps ensure operational readiness and keeps workers safe.
Common Applications for Generator Access Platforms
Commercial generators have been installed in nearly every type of environment. 48D’s custom generator access platforms are designed to fit any commercial generator application.
Some of the most common use cases include:
- Rooftop generator platforms
- Above ground generator pads
- Industrial facilities
- Utility buildings
- Data centers
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Telecommunications facilities
- Municipal buildings
- Water Treatment and Wastewater Treatment Facilities
- Manufacturing facilities
Commercial generators may have different surrounding structures, heights and access requirements. REDD Team’s custom fabricators can design any configuration needed to safely access your generator.
Benefits of Custom Access Stairs and Platforms
Although there are standard generator access options available, most commercial applications benefit from custom designed stairs and platforms. Customization ensures a safe, perfect fit around any existing structures, equipment clearance requirements and maintenance operations.
Some of the benefits of custom generator access stairs and platforms include:
Improved Worker Safety
Eliminating the risk of falls while working on or around generators should be the top priority. Stairs with guardrails, handrails and non-slip walking surfaces provide safe access to technicians. When workers have safe access to the equipment, they can feel confident while performing inspections and maintenance services.
Easier Maintenance Access
Maintaining generators requires routine testing and servicing. Having a platform positioned near the main service points gives technicians stable and easy access to perform necessary tasks. Access platforms help technicians reach difficult areas without dangerous positioning or climbing.
Regulatory Compliance
Commercial buildings have to follow safety regulations and industry standards. Providing proper access to equipment is one less thing for managers to worry about. Custom platforms can be designed to meet OSHA standards and other safety regulations.
Increased Equipment Longevity
Maintenance ensures generators will operate reliably when they are needed. Service intervals are easier to meet when technicians have safe access to generators. Inspecting generators regularly can prevent major failures and prolong the life of the equipment.
Better Emergency Preparedness
Generators provide power during storms, grid outages and other emergency situations. Ensuring technicians can safely access the equipment can help facilities prepare for any situation.
Key Design Considerations
When designing generator access there are several things to consider. Site conditions, equipment dimensions and maintenance procedures all play a role in the platform design.
Here are some of the key considerations:
Platform Height
How high the generator is off the ground or roof determines how many stairs are necessary to safely reach equipment. The height will determine if there needs to be a landing or if switchback stairs are necessary.
Equipment Clearances
Technicians will need room to remove panels and perform routine maintenance. The platform should have enough space to meet service requirements.
Load Requirements
Access platforms should be strong enough to support the weight of technicians, tools and maintenance equipment. Including the weight of any loads that may be placed on the platform when doing service.
Environmental Conditions
Outdoor installed generators can be exposed to the elements. Rain, wind, UV exposure, snow, ice and salt can wear access platforms over time. When exposed to harsh environmental conditions, material selection is key.
Access Frequency
How often the equipment will need to be serviced should determine the size of the platform and if multiple access points are necessary. Facilities that service their generators more frequently can benefit from larger platforms and additional access points.
Safety Features to Consider
Generator access platforms can have a variety of safety features. These features help prevent falls and keep workers safe.
Some of the safety features to consider are:
- OSHA-compliant guardrails
- Handrails
- Self-closing safety gate
- Non-slip walking surface
- Toe board
- Mid-raills
- Safety landings
- Highly visible edge markings
- Integrated fall protection
Custom Solutions for Generator Stairs & Platforms
Every facility has different requirements. Commercial generators can be installed in hard-to-reach places or have obstacles such as overhead pipes, electrical lines, neighboring buildings or even vehicles that need to be considered when designing an access solution.
Custom generator access allows platforms to be designed around the obstacles while keeping worker safety as the top priority. Custom generator stairs and platforms allow engineers to come up with creative solutions that provide the most usable space and easiest access to critical components of the generator.
No matter how many generator access stairs and platforms your facility has, REDD Team can engineer and fabricate safe access to your commercial generators. Give us a call at (800) 648-3696 or reach out online to learn more about our custom generator access platforms.