Can firefighters work near energized PV systems?

As PV deployments have become commonplace around the world, codes and standards bodies have worked with the fire services and the PV industry to develop guidelines to address the potential hazards to firefighters working near energized PV systems.

Do PV installers need fire protection in Germany?

In Germany, design and construction guidelines related to fire protection for PV installers are given in “Fire protection oriented planning, construction and maintenance of photovoltaic systems” by the German Solar Industry Association (Table 3.2).

Can a PV system be used near a fire?

The presence of a PV system near a fire may produce hazards such as heightened potential for falls, electrical shock, and collapse of roof structures. Due to these perceived hazards, there have been cases where firefighters limited their operations and the fire was allowed to expand.

How can a PV system improve firefighters' safety?

As main activities to improve firefighters’ safety, the German guidelines explain the importance of recognizing PV systems, installation methods of DC wires to lower electric shock risks for firefighters, and a specific firefighting operation flow for fires involving PV systems.

How should fire service personnel handle a PV system fire?

Operate normally, but do not deliberately touch PV hardware. Fire service personnel should follow their normal tactics and strategies at structure fires involving PV systems, but do so with awareness and understanding of possible exposure to energized electrical equipment. Size up, identify, and validate any hazards.

Is a PV system dangerous to a firefighter?

The relative simplicity of PV systems makes hazards easier to predict and avoid. New technologies need to be demonstrated to be effective under the conditions in which the PV system is improperly installed or damaged. The damage that makes a PV array potentially hazardous to a firefighter might also render any new technologies inoperative.