Fire Safety in the Workplace: Risks and Prevention
Solar PV or Solar Panels are becoming more and more popular in homes across Ireland. They are a fantastic way to generate clean, green electricity and to lower our energy costs.
Solar PV panels generate electrical energy in the form of direct current (DC) and therefore introduce a new risk fire to the home. In addition, the presence of Lithium Ion batteries which are often included at the time of installation or thereafter also bring an increased risk.
In our homes, it’s best to take the Reduce Risk / Detect / Escape approach:
- Installation and maintenance: Good installation and regular maintenance are both necessary for achieving risk reduction. Always choose a registered installer and give due consideration to reputation, experience, insurance and certifications. Please refer to The SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) for a list of registered Solar PV Companies. Be alert for those offering solar PV who are not registered with SEAI.
- Inverter/Battery Positioning: If opting for a battery, it is essential to carefully consider where you place it. For solar systems, it’s best to locate batteries in a building external to the main dwelling whenever possible as they contain Lithium-Ion. Lithium – Ion battery fires can be up to three times more ferocious than other fire types. Inverter(s) should not be mounted on combustible walls, such as wood panels and as with batteries it is best to locate outside the main dwelling whenever possible. This reduces the risk to your home and provides an extra layer of safety.
- Detection Systems: Installing additional fire detection devices is a wise precaution. Remember: Working smoke alarms save lives!
- Fireman’s Switch: Know the location of your DC isolator switch or “Firemans Switch” to enable the current from the PV array to be isolated remotely. This allows the Fire Brigade to tackle the fire safely.
- Fire Extinguishers: In the event of a Lithium – Ion battery fire, we do not recommend that you attempt to fight it. Lithium – Ion fires can be extremely difficult to control with the batteries also prone to explosion. Whilst there are some Lithium – Ion Fire Extinguishers available on the Irish market, they have yet to be approved by Irish Standards. However, having the right type of fire extinguisher on hand to aid escape during an emergency can be crucial. There are a few options to consider:
-
- ABC Dry Powder Extinguishers: A multi-purpose option that’s safe for all types of fires, makes the ABC Dry Powder a versatile choice for the home.
-
- CO2 Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers: Particularly effective for electrical fires, you may also wish to consider these units in homes with solar panels and battery setups.
By following these tips and ensuring you have the right safety measures in place, you can enjoy the benefits of solar energy while keeping your home and family safe.
If you have any questions or need pricing on specific fire safety products, feel free to reach out. Stay safe and power on!
What to Do If a Fire Happens
- Raise the alarm
- Move everyone to safety (It is important to have an escape plan for your home and remember to practice it!)
- Call 999 or 112
- Only tackle the fire if safe to do so. Remember, Lithium-Ion fires can be extremely difficult to control with the batteries also prone to explosion.
Be Smart. Be Prepared. Be Safe.
Check out our range of fire safety products here.
Related posts
