Roof-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems are an innovative and
dynamic area within the roofing industry. New, affordable
technology has emerged, allowing a wide spectrum of buildings to
generate electricity from their previously inactive roof surfaces.
However, with this technology come risks to roofing
workers—some familiar, such as fall hazards, and some much
less familiar but just as deadly, such as electrical shock and
electrocution.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations
broadly cover some hazards involved with PV system installation and
maintenance but provide little specific direction for safety issues
presented by roof-mounted PV systems.
OSHA regulations in 29 CFR 1926, "Safety and Health Regulations
for Construction," apply to employees engaged in "construction
work"—work performed under a contract for "construction,
alteration and/or repair." OSHA general industry regulations
located in 29 CFR 1910, "Occupational Safety and Health Standards,"
apply to other industries not including construction, agriculture
or...
Log in or register for FREE access to this article and other Professional Roofing online content.