Solar plant summer safety requires mitigating heat-related illnesses and electrical fire risks

 Solar plant summer safety requires mitigating heat-related illnesses and electrical fire risks. Key precautions include mandatory hydration, shade breaks, and wearing UV-protective clothing. Key technical measures are, conducting early morning maintenance to avoid peak sun, monitoring for inverter/cable overheating, and ensuring proper fire suppression in electrical rooms. 

Solar Best PracticesSolar Best Practices +3

Key Summer Safety Precautions for Personnel 

Heat Illness Prevention: Drink sufficient water, take regular breaks in the shade, and use sunscreen to prevent sunstroke and dehydration.

Timing: Schedule maintenance, cleaning, or installations for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

PPE: Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including UV-protective sunglasses, hats, and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to prevent skin damage.

Electrical Hazard Awareness: Use insulated gloves and tools, especially as hot, dry conditions can increase risk. Wear non-conductive safety boots with electrical hazard (EH) ratings. 

Solar Best PracticesSolar Best Practices +4

Solar Plant Technical Safety (Summer Focus) 

Fire Mitigation: Regularly inspect and clean panels to prevent dirt accumulation, which can cause overheating.

Inverter & Cable Maintenance: Check inverters and electrical cables regularly for damage or loose connections, as intense heat can cause failures or fire risks.

Fire Suppression: Ensure fire extinguishers (ABC, 

C

O

2

𝐶

𝑂

2

) are in place in inverter/battery rooms, and that battery storage systems are adequately ventilated.

Voltage Testing: Always test for voltage before starting work, particularly in high-temperature conditions.

Vegetation Management: Clear dry vegetation around the site to mitigate fire risk. 

Solar Best PracticesSolar Best Practices +4

Emergency & Operational Procedures 

Storm Safety: Vacate the solar array during electrical storms, as metal structures increase lightning strike risks.

Training: Ensure staff are trained in emergency responses, including fire safety.

Equipment Care: Cover solar panels with opaque sheets during installation or repair to prevent unexpected energy generation and heat accumulation.