After bouncing back from a slight dip earlier in the year, the residential solar sector set a quarterly record at 1.8 GWdc of installations in Q2 2023. With analysts forecasting residential solar to experience 6% growth on average over the next five years, this sector will continue seeing new entrants emerge to take advantage of the steady expansion.

Whether you’re just starting your journey as a residential solar installer or an industry veteran, it's always important to prioritize safety and efficiency in your work, including revisiting standards and protocols regularly.

To assist both new and ongoing efforts, we’ve compiled these residential solar safety considerations and valuable resources to enhance your knowledge. This article serves as a foundation for rooftop solar safety basics, and professional installers should undergo rigorous training and certification to ensure the highest standards of safety protocol.

Safety First: Considerations for New Residential Solar Installers

Safety is paramount in the world of residential solar installation. To create a secure working environment and deliver top-notch solar systems, keep these overview safety tips in mind:

1. Prioritize Safety Training - Before commencing any solar installation project, invest in comprehensive safety training for yourself and your team. Training should cover electrical safety practices, first aid, and proper personal protective equipment (PPE) use.

2. Utilize the Right Equipment and Tools — Always use the correct tools and equipment for the job. Ensure your tools are in good condition and have essential safety gear, including harnesses, gloves, and safety glasses. Regularly inspect and maintain your equipment to prevent accidents due to tool malfunctions.

3. Assess Roof and Structural Integrity — Before installation, evaluate the roof's and the building's structural integrity to verify its capacity to support solar panels. Consider factors like roof condition, local climate, and potential weather-related issues.

4. Proper Electrical Wiring — Secure all electrical wiring, conduits, and connections to eliminate exposure to live wires. Employ conduit clips and cable management systems to organize and protect the wiring, reducing the risk of damage or electrical accidents.

5. Fire Safety Measures — Integrate fire safety measures into your installations, such as fire-resistant roofing materials, firebreaks, and smoke detectors in solar panel areas. Ensure your team is well-versed in fire safety protocols and has access to fire extinguishers for emergencies.

6. Rapid Module Shutdown — Solar rapid shutdown devices enable rooftop solar systems to de-energize quickly in an emergency. When properly installed, PV systems are incredibly safe. Although risks are small, every precaution taken matters. In this case, the ability to rapidly shut down solar modules helps reduce the risk of shock hazards for first responders. Most US states require solar energy systems to have rapid shutdown devices. The remaining states will follow soon enough as they switch to more recent National Electrical Code (NEC) versions.

7. Grounding and Bonding — Effective grounding and bonding are crucial to prevent electrical faults and reduce the risk of electrical shock. Ensure all electrical components are properly grounded and bonded per local electrical codes.

8. Using N-Type TOPCon PV Modules — Residential PV panels with N-type TOPCon advanced technology can be beneficial for residential solar installations. For example, the Vertex S+, with 435W maximum power output and 22% maximum efficiency, offers several advantages. These panels have a 3% higher energy yield per watt than PERC panels, allowing you to achieve a similar PV system power output with fewer panels and reducing trips to the roof. With 1% first-year degradation and approximately 4% more power generation at year 25, Vertex S+ panels maintain their efficiency over time, ensuring a longer lifespan for the solar installation.

Additional Rooftop Solar Safety Resources

Your journey as a residential solar installer is a continuous learning process. To enhance your knowledge and stay updated on industry best practices, consider these valuable resources:

National Electrical Installation Standards (NEIS)

NEI Standards wrote the manual for electrical safety with resources, publications, guidelines, and training materials for contractors.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

OSHA provides comprehensive guidelines for electrical safety and fall protection. Their website offers resources, publications, and training materials specifically tailored to electrical work and construction safety.

Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)

SEIA has safety initiatives and information on solar installations with guidelines, best practices, and industry standards.

Local and State Regulations

Always consult local building codes and regulations pertaining to solar installations in your area. Local authorities and building departments may provide additional safety requirements and guidelines.

Staying up-to-date with the latest practices and continuously improving your knowledge is essential for maintaining a safe working environment for yourself, your coworkers, and your customers. Additionally, attending safety training workshops and seeking electrical safety and solar installation certifications can further enhance your expertise in this field.

By following these safety tips and considering the benefits of smaller N-type TOPCon PV panels with higher power output, you can not only ensure the safety of your team and clients but also optimize the efficiency and longevity of the solar system you install. It's a win-win situation that benefits everyone involved in the transition to clean and sustainable energy.

Want to learn about more of the benefits of Vertex S+ panels for residential solar installers? Reach out to our US-based team today!