A construction site is always brimming with chaos. On-site supervisors and project managers are often engaged in a variety of tasks, some even working simultaneously. Despite thoughtful planning, a project site can get intensive and demanding very quickly. In such situations when everyone on site needs a quick breather, construction site welfare units come to the rescue.

Welfare units, also known as welfare cabins or welfare trailers, are enclosed units placed on a project site. They offer various amenities for the welfare of the on-ground workers and staff. From a towable welfare unit for 16 people to a static unit for four occupants, welfare facilities are available in various sizes to accommodate varying numbers of on-site workforces.

Although these are practical and legally mandated additions to any building or construction project, care must be taken to make sure they are kept in good condition and function as intended. To ensure that you take good care of your welfare units, it’s also important to understand the common problems that often crop up. 

This article highlights the 8 common issues welfare units face and how they can be managed.

8 Common Welfare Unit Issues

The recurrent problems faced by welfare cabins can be divided into three categories: generator-related issues, electrical issues, and water issues. Most of these issues can be resolved quickly with a few quick steps. For others, you may need to contact the respective service team of the site welfare unit provider.

Let’s understand these problems in greater detail:

1. Generator Won’t Start

The welfare cabin’s generator is its main source of power; most amenities would not function without it. If your unit’s generator won’t start, here’s a quick troubleshooting guide for you:

  • Check if the ignition switch is on.
  • Is the generator panel showing any lights? If yes, next ensure the battery isolator is switched on.
  • Ensure the emergency stop button is not activated. If it is pressed, twist the button to release it back to its original position.
  • Inspect the oil, water, and fuel levels.
  • Some welfare unit generators have an automatic cut-off switch that auto cuts off generator operations if it has low oil, low fuel, and high engine temperature.

2. Generator Keeps Stopping

If your unit’s generator keeps stopping after starting, you may need to do the following:

  • Inspect water, oil and fuel levels. Refill them with water and fuel according to the unit’s guidelines. 
  • Ensure the filter near the fuel tank is free from debris or dirt.
  • Check whether the generator is being overloaded with additional heaters and external equipment. Quickly remove any additional items to reduce load.
  • Ensure the generator compartment is not being used as a storage room. 
  • Keep the generator compartment free from wet clothing or any other item. Keeping items on the generator restricts the airflow and causes the generator to overheat and cut off.

3. Low on Oil

If your welfare trailer is running low on oil, it’s best to consult the professionals at the welfare facility firm. They can guide you with the right advice on using the correct grade and type of oil. 

Don’t experiment with any type of oil in the generator, as using the wrong oil can cause irreversible engine failure and result in charges for damages. 

4. Running but No Output

Inspect the generator control panel and check if the main circuit breaker has tripped.

5. Low Running Hours

Generator running hours vary according to the type of generator used in the unit. A 6-person unit generator can differ in size, tank capacity, and running hours from a generator in a 16-person welfare unit with an office.

A general thumb rule to follow: Generator working hours will go down on a normal working day on the project site since it is operating under greater loads. A 30 to 50% reduction in running hours is normal when generators are running at full capacity.

Electrical Issues

After generator problems, electrical issues are the next common problems affecting welfare units.

6. No Electrical Power

If you’re receiving no power, quickly check the main circuit breakers on the generator control panel and consumer panels for any tripped switches. 

7. Flickering or Dim Lights

Dim or flickering lights may be a result of overloading due to additional heaters, external equipment, or extension leads. Identify and quickly remove any additional items affecting the power supply.

Water Issues

8. Blocked Water Pump

A blocked water pump is a common occurrence in welfare facilities. You may need to bleed the water pump to release the trapped water and restore operations.

In Conclusion

Ensuring that welfare units are maintained is just as important as providing well-maintained welfare facilities for your employees on the project site. 

Most problems that occur while managing welfare units can be quickly diagnosed and resolved by thinking on your feet and using these easy-to-follow troubleshooting measures. Doing so can save valuable project time.

However, when in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to the concerned team for professional assistance.

Image Source: Freepik