Safe AND simple. Attach a voltmeter to the battery. Remove the plug from the voltage regulator. Start the engine. Connect a jumper momentarily between the A+ and F terminals in the PLUG (no more than 10 seconds). While attached, voltage should be between 14-16 volts. If not, alternator is NG, if so, alternator is OK, check regulator.
BTW, while removing the battery cable may work okay on a vehicle with a mechanical (contact) regulator, chances are that the voltage spike created will fry an electronic or internal regulator or possibly damage the alternator.