The Importance of Solar Panel Safety Labels

The current commercial triumph of solar PV power can be associated with numerous elements, including more pressure on governments and NGOs to diversify the energy industry from conventional power generation to renewable energy. There are also attempts to meet environmental targets and attempt to reverse the effects of climate change. Another reason for this push and the reason that’s most likely responsible for the current growth of the solar industry is how reliable the solar systems are and how long they last. While many people have become knowledgeable about solar energy as a whole, not as many understand the safety standards, which are set by multiple global and local organizations.

Electrical, mechanical, and fire safety are all elements of solar panel safety that are necessary to pay attention to when working with and owning solar energy modules.

Safety Focuses

When it comes to staying safe around solar panels, some safety needs are more important than others. For example, the number one concern is electrical, mechanical, and fire safety. This includes the components of the actual solar panel system, such as the modules and inverters.

The second thing to focus on is the qualifications of the module itself. Ensuring it has an appropriate rating and that the rating it does have is new is very important to make sure you aren’t purchasing a module that hasn’t passed its safety test.

Lastly, the third most important thing to focus on is the performance of your module over time and make sure it doesn’t start breaking down and becoming a hazard. You’ll also want to have it inspected regularly to make sure it’s functioning properly in ways you can’t see yourself.

Safety Label Groups

When looking at your safety labels, you’ll want to focus on three primary groups that will give you a vast array of information. These groups are the consumers, the professionals, and the inspectors.

The Consumer/Civilian Group

The consumer group is perhaps the most important, as these people are the ones who typically have the least amount of knowledge about electrical equipment, especially electrical equipment like solar panels, which operates at high voltages. Paying attention to the labels directed at you, as a consumer, is very important in order to know that you shouldn’t touch certain electrical components until you are sure everything is unplugged and the system is isolated.

Professionals - Firefighters/Installers/Electricians

Labels are extremely helpful for professionals to do their jobs as quickly as possible. While the professional group is typically trained on what is and is not a hazard, the labels allow them to recognize things much faster and get jobs done much quicker, which is especially useful in times of emergency.

Inspectors

The inspector group is important because even though they’ll know everything about your system, not having the proper labels when they come could result in failing the inspection and having it shut down.

What to Look For

When looking for safety labels on your module, the number one thing to look for is a yellow triangle with an arrow that looks like a lightning bolt pointing down. This means that the component it’s labeling is unsafe to touch without taking the appropriate steps. It will generally specify which exact component it’s referring to, as well.

When It comes to installing any electrical equipment, safety should always be your number one priority. Be sure to take the proper steps to ensure you and the people around you stay safe.

Want more tips and tricks for going solar? Check out the HahaSmart blog!

HahaSmart Blog - More Solar Tips and Guide
HahaSmart News - Stay Informed
Your Solar Incentives - See Credits and Incentives in Your Area
Check Your Home's Solar Price - See How Much You Save
Register Now - Unlock The Lowest Solar Prices in Your Area