Safety

Once they are installed, PV systems are safe and require little maintenance.

During the installation process there are many important safety precautions. Among the considerations is the fact that work is being done on a roof, usually a sloped one, and that solar panels have the potential for generating energy whenever light strikes them. Installers use harnesses in order to maintain a safe working environment and many put a tarp or sheet of cardboard over the panels while the wiring is being connected to reduce the voltage.

All solar modules and inverters meet stringent Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and American Society for the Testing of Materials (ASTM) standards, in addition to extensive European and global standards for safety and integrity. Safe installation is covered by the National Electrical Code (NEC), in which Chapter 690 – Photovoltaic Systems, has been in place for nearly 20 years. Locally enforced structural codes govern the safe integration into buildings.

As a side note, property owners in Oregon are not required to have a license to make an electrical installation on residential or farm property that is owned by you, or a member of your immediate family (if the property is not intended for sale, exchange, lease or rent). You are still required to obtain the proper permits. Contact the Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD) and your local government agencies that processes permits if you have questions regarding homeowner installations.

Much of the training for solar professionals focuses on safety issues. Solar PV installation is not a DIY weekend project.