Tiếng ViệtAs solar power increasingly becomes the preferred choice for many businesses and households, the issue of labor safety during the installation process has been brought to the forefront. Experience shows that many unfortunate incidents have occurred due to a lack of safety procedures, non-standard equipment, or limited safety awareness among workers. Therefore, strict adherence to safety regulations not only protects the health and lives of workers but also ensures the quality and longevity of the entire project.
Potential Risks in Solar Power Installation
The construction of solar power systems often takes place on the roofs of high-rise buildings, large factories, or in outdoor areas. These working conditions present numerous potential risks, the most common of which include:
- Risk of falls when working on slippery or sloped metal roofs.
- Risk of electric shock due to the system’s characteristic combination of high-voltage direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC).
- Impacts from severe weather, such as intense heat or thunderstorms, which can easily cause sunstroke, heat exhaustion, or slips and falls.
- Risks from heavy equipment and materials, especially during the transportation, drilling, cutting, and installation of solar panels.
Without preventive measures, these risks can cause significant harm to people and property, while also affecting the project’s schedule and the company’s reputation.
Solutions to Ensure Safety During Construction
To minimize risks for technical staff and ensure project timelines, contractors must implement a comprehensive set of safety measures from preparation and construction through to commissioning and maintenance.
Provide Adequate and Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Safety helmets must meet industry standards and have a secure chin strap to prevent them from falling off when working at heights.
- Safety footwear should be anti-slip, with insulated soles and protective toe caps.
- Safety harnesses and lanyards: Use fall arrest systems with suitable anchor points that have been assessed for load-bearing capacity; inspect all gear before each shift.
- Insulated gloves for electrical work, along with protective gloves for handling heavy materials.
- Safety glasses, masks, and sun-protective clothing for outdoor work.
Note: All equipment must be periodically inspected, with records maintained in a logbook.
Training, Instruction, and Raising Safety Awareness
- Organize pre-project training courses covering installation procedures, electrical connections, power shutdown/startup processes, and electrical incident response plans.
- Provide training on working at heights (use of harnesses, safe ladder climbing), basic first aid, and emergency rescue procedures.
- Conduct daily “toolbox talks” or safety briefings to reiterate the specific risks of the day’s tasks.
- Only allow certified or trained personnel to perform hazardous tasks (e.g., electrical wiring, testing).
Inspect, Maintain, and Prepare Equipment Before Use
- Establish pre-shift equipment inspection checklists (for drills, ladders, cables, MC4 connectors, meters). Record the results and remove or repair faulty equipment.
- Inspect solar panels, mounting frames, and inverters for any transport-related damage before installation.
- Use appropriate measurement devices (e.g., multimeters, insulation testers) to check voltage and verify a de-energized state before commencing work.
Adhere to Safety Supervision and Weather Management Procedures
- Risk of electric shock due to the system’s characteristic combination of high-voltage direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC).
- Impacts from severe weather, such as intense heat or thunderstorms, which can easily cause sunstroke, heat exhaustion, or slips and falls.
- Have a dedicated Safety Officer on-site with the authority to halt work when necessary.
- Monitor the weather: Cease all rooftop activities during heavy rain, strong winds, thunderstorms, or when surfaces are wet and slippery. Establish specific work-stoppage thresholds according to company policy.
Scaffolding, Nets, and Fall Prevention Measures
- Erect sturdy scaffolding complete with guardrails and toe-boards; all scaffolding must be load-tested before use.
- Install safety nets around elevated work areas to reduce the risk of falling materials and protect people below.
- Reinforce walkways on the roof (e.g., using planks or load-bearing panels) to ensure safe movement for personnel.
Safety: The Foundation for Sustainable Development
Labor safety is not merely a legal obligation for a business; it is the key factor that determines the long-term success of a solar power project. A system built safely will operate stably, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance the construction contractor’s reputation in the eyes of partners and clients.
Accordingly, safe construction practices are not just about compliance; they are a reflection of a company’s capability and credibility. Every correctly implemented safety procedure reinforces trust, and every safely completed project is a testament to sustainable quality. Above all, investing in labor safety is an investment in the long-term development of the renewable energy industry—a sector where people, technology, and the environment connect to build a green future for the country.