Prioritising safety in commercial solar systems
Safety is paramount in any commercial solar installation. As a business owner, understanding the critical importance of safety in your solar energy system can protect your employees, property, and investment. Commercial solar systems, while offering significant benefits, come with potential hazards that must be managed effectively.
Understanding the risks
Installing and maintaining commercial solar systems involve multiple safety risks. High voltage electricity, which is integral to solar energy systems, presents a significant danger. Workers accessing rooftops for installation or maintenance face the risk of electric shock, which can be severe or even fatal. Furthermore, the possibility of electrical faults and arc flashes can lead to fires, posing a substantial threat to both personnel and property.
Fire risks associated with solar systems are particularly concerning. As we have seen recently in Australia, electrical faults can create arc flashes that, if undetected, can escalate into fires. As a business owner, it’s crucial to understand these risks and take proactive measures to mitigate them.
Ensuring a safe solar system
A safe solar system starts with choosing the right technology. SolarEdge sets the industry standard with our SafeDC™ feature, which reduces high voltage risks by automatically lowering the system’s DC voltage to a safe level when the inverter or grid is shut down. This feature is particularly crucial during installation and maintenance, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock to workers.
Additionally, SolarEdge systems are equipped with arc fault detection, which identifies electrical arcs and shuts down the system before they can cause a fire. This proactive approach to safety ensures that potential hazards are addressed before they become serious issues. With SolarEdge, business owners can have peace of mind knowing that their solar systems are designed with the highest safety standards in mind.
Navigating natural hazards
Commercial solar systems are also vulnerable to natural hazards such as electrical storms and cyclones, particularly in Queensland. These extreme weather events can damage solar panels and create unsafe working environments. Panels damaged by storms can pose significant electrical hazards, making it essential to have robust safety measures in place.
SolarEdge’s commercial solar technology provides enhanced durability and safety features that help mitigate these risks. By ensuring that panels and system components are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, SolarEdge helps protect your investment and ensures the continued safety of your solar energy system.
Insurance requirements
Leading global insurance underwriters, such as FM Global, are increasingly requiring solar technology with advanced safety specifications for coverage. Our comprehensive safety features align with these stringent requirements, making it easier for businesses to obtain insurance for their solar installations. By choosing a system with a proven safety record business owners can ensure compliance with insurance standards and protect their assets.
Promoting a culture of safety
Finally, Promoting a culture of safety within your organisation is crucial. This involves educating employees and contractors about the potential risks associated with solar systems and the importance of following safety protocols. Regular training sessions and safety drills can help reinforce best practices and ensure that everyone involved in the operation and maintenance of the system is well-prepared.
Implementing a safety-first approach not only protects your employees but also enhances the overall reliability and performance of your solar system. By prioritising safety, you can minimise downtime, avoid costly repairs, and ensure that your solar energy system operates at peak efficiency.
If you’re considering a commercial PV system, SolarEdge is the partner you need. Browse our case studies or check our full range of commercial products. To discuss your requirements with a team member, get in touch.
