Page 38 - IEC Insights May-June21_PAGES

FEATURE

Emerging

Technology,

Emerging Safety

Concerns BRIANNE DEERWESTER, ELECTRICAL SAFETY

FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL

M Solar PV installer jobs are increasing at yourself and any equipment 10 feet away

May is National Electrical Safety Month,
from all overhead power lines. Carry
a much higher rate than the average of
and the Electrical Safety Foundation
all occupations. According to the U.S.
International (ESFI) is launching its annual
ladders and other equipment horizontally
campaign to educate key audiences about
Remember that PV modules can still
the steps to take to reduce the number of
expected to grow 51% between 2019 and
generate power even when disconnected
2029, making it the third fastest-growing
electrically related fires, fatalities, injuries, Bureau of Labor Statistics, they are when on the ground to avoid power lines.
and property loss. The resources created occupation. Between 2011 and 2019, 650 from a building’s wiring system. Never
for this year’s campaign address the safety solar PV installers were injured on the walk or climb on a solar PV module.
needs of electrical contractors, installers, job, and 51% of injured installers were Beware of interconnected electric
and building owners regarding emerging on the job for between one to five years. power production sources and mark
technology to prevent workplace injuries Solar PV Electrical Safety (https://bit. all equipment as required by the NEC.
and fatalities. There were 166 electrical ly/2P5nZS6) was created to remind solar Always stay at least 10 feet away from
fatalities in 2019, a 3.75% increase over photovoltaic (PV) installers how to stay solar installations. In case of emergencies
2018, and the highest amount of electrical safe while working with or around solar involving solar modules, call 911 and notify
fatalities since 2011. There were 1,900 PV systems. first responders that PVs are involved.
nonfatal electrical injuries resulting in If possible, turn off the AC side of solar
workers taking time off work, a 22% increase Before installing PV, locate all overhead modules. Solar modules may still generate
over 2018. The need for workplace electrical power lines. Always consider all overhead DC power.
safety resources and training is evident. lines to be live and dangerous. Keep

36 Insights Magazine | May/June 2021 | www.ieci.org