Ongoing scheduled load shedding by Eskom has left households and businesses dependent on generators.
But Overstrand Municipality warns the use of generators must comply with the Western Cape Noise Control Regulations of 2013.
Municipal manager Dean O’Neill said: “It is advisable to consult neighbours before installing a generator. Users are also urged please to take extra care in soundproofing their units in order to curb noise pollution.
“Regulation 5 of the above-mentioned Noise Control Regulations is applicable when the generator is operated from a residential property . . . For the use of generators on commercial properties the rating level, in terms of SANS 10328, is applicable.”
He said it is the owner/user’s responsibility to ensure noise is limited to levels that comply with these limits, by means of suitable sound proofing where necessary. These measures could include installing a “quiet generator box” or silencer pipe.
He added: “Always consult an expert, such as an electrician, before installing your generator.
“When installing generators it is important to note the two main differences between a back-up generator (portable) and standby generator (fixed installation).
“Firstly, back-up generators are independently run and not installed or connected to the home electrical system.
“Standby generators (or fixed installations) refer to those that require installation that is directly linked to the main switch board, and automatically switches on during power interruptions.
“According to the SANS, this installation should be undertaken by a qualified electrician and a certificate of electrical compliance [COC] be issued.”
Standby generators must be registered with the municipality’s electrical department for record purposes. Send an email to dlaubscher@overstrand.gov.za for more information about this.
Alternative sources for diesel generators, which generate much noise, include inverters, UPSes or solar panels.
Download the Regulation: https://archive.opengazettes.org.za/archive/ZA-WC/2013/provincial-gazette-ZA-WC-no-7141-dated-2013-06-20.pdf
