To help to power America with clean, green energy, electrical contractors are specializing in renewable projects or partnering with solar integrators. To highlight solar and wind jobs nationwide, EC&M will soon feature a story on high-profile green projects.
Before diving into the renewable energy market, however, electricians must be aware of certain hazards. For example, the following are a few of the specific dangers present in this type of work, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
- Arc flashes, including burn and blast hazards. When hooking up the solar panels to the electric circuit or inadvertently contacting nearby power lines with tools or equipment, workers can be exposed to the risk of electrocution.
- Falls from roofs, ladders, and scaffolding. Solar workers who are exposed to fall distances of 6 ft or more must be protected by guardrail systems, safety net systems, and personal fall arrest systems.
- Heat and cold stress. By working in hot weather, electricians and solar workers can be susceptible to heat stress and exhaustion and dehydration.
- Crane and hoist safety. If cranes are not inspected properly prior to the installation of solar panels, they can lead to serious injury or death.
- Lockout/tagout. Solar workers can be at risk of injuries when performing maintenance and servicing of solar panels due to the unexpected energization or release of stored energy in the equipment. For that reason, solar energy employers may be required to implement the lockout/tagout procedures in OSHA standards at 29 CFR 1910.269(d) or at 29 CFR 1910.147.
For more information about other hazards in the green job industry, including wind energy, visit the OSHA website.
Fischbach is a freelance writer based in Overland Park, Kan. She can be reached at [email protected].
