An effective Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Plan for a solar plant’s Operation and Management (O&M) team must be fully developed, approved, and implemented at least 30 to 60 days prior to the Provisional Acceptance (PAC) or First Time Energization/Commissioning. This ensures all safety systems, trained personnel, and procedures are in place for the transition from construction to operations.

 An effective Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Plan for a solar plant’s Operation and Management (O&M) team must be fully developed, approved, and implemented at least 30 to 60 days prior to the Provisional Acceptance (PAC) or First Time Energization/Commissioning. This ensures all safety systems, trained personnel, and procedures are in place for the transition from construction to operations.

EHS Plan & Manual Structure for O&M

The EHS manual for the O&M phase should focus on active operational risks, differing from construction-focused safety documents. Key components include: 

Safety Management System (SMS): Leadership commitment, hazard ID, risk assessment (HAZID), and contractor safety management.

Operational Controls: Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, Electrical Safety Rules (especially high voltage), and Fall Protection for roof/structure maintenance.

Environmental Management: Waste management (panel disposal, e-waste) and spill prevention.

Emergency Response: Procedures for fire, electrocution, or severe weather.

Document Control: Site-specific safety plans, daily inspection logs, and incident reporting procedures. 

Time Framework Before First Time Acceptance 

The following timeline should be followed for ensuring the EHS readiness:

Timeline Milestone Key EHS Actions

T-90 Days Pre-Acceptance Phase Identify site-specific hazards (electrical, fire, height). Conduct gap analysis between construction safety and O&M requirements.

T-60 Days EHS Manual Finalization Finalize the O&M EHS manual based on as-built designs.

T-45 Days Equipment & Procedures Procure necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Safety tools (e.g., test meters). Establish Permit to Work (PTW) systems.

T-30 Days Training & Induction Complete specialized safety training for the O&M team (Electrical safety, First Aid, Firefighting).

T-15 Days Final Audit/Trial Perform a pre-commissioning safety audit to ensure all safety measures are in place.

T-0 (PAC) First Acceptance Official transfer of EHS responsibility to O&M team.

Crucial Safety Procedures Before Operation

Hazard Identification (HAZID): A comprehensive assessment of all operational phases, including panel cleaning, inverter maintenance, and site security.

Training & Competency: The O&M team must be trained in Electrical Safety (High Voltage) and working at heights.

Permit to Work (PTW): A strictly enforced system for controlling high-risk, non-routine tasks.

Emergency Preparedness: Clear emergency contact information, evacuation routes, and first-aid kits tailored for electrical accidents.