There are many rules and regulations when it comes to working at height. Here, we take a look at Queensland specifically, focussing in on what you and your company can do to ensure personal safety for your workers and legal safety for your organisation when installing solar panels.
Building code compliance
The Workplace Health and Safety Queensland ‘Work Cover Queensland’ site explains that electricians and builders must be aware of the various unique and treacherous dangers of installing solar photovoltaic panels while working at height.
Workers must be at all times be in accordance and compliance with the Australian Standards for buildings and the Building Code of Australia, which states that poorly installed PV solar panels can place a strain on electrical wiring. This additional stress can increase the risk of becoming dislodged – which can lead to serious safety hazards.
Wind conditions and brackets
Brackets are another essential that must be carefully chosen. The way a bracket is attached to the solar panel and the roof may change depending on wind conditions. Whether a building is constructed out of timber or steel will also impact what kind of bracket is used.
Height safety compliance
Working around and on existing buildings requires personal skill and excellent management above everything else to maintain safety standards – but the third essential is proper, compliant protection for maintenance personnel in areas where there is a large flow of people working around the dangerous site.
This includes being aware of surrounding potential safety hazards, such as skylights. Many buildings have skylights, and they can pose a serious hazard to worker safety when not carefully addressed. Installing a fall protection system like a skylight protector is one sure-fire way to ensure the safe installation of a skylight.
Fall arrest
Harnesses are a great way to stay safe at heights, especially when it comes to the often physically exacting and finicky demands of installing a solar panel. Anchor points provide an ideal solution to workers who are installing at height because they provide safe access to a roof. With an anchor point, you’re able to move around freely and safely.
Don’t wait for an incident to occur – prepare now to ensure you’re in control of the situation, instead of the other way around. For more information on how your company can safely and efficiently install solar panels in compliance with Queensland building and safety codes, get in touch with Anchor Safe today.