-
2
- #1
This came in a UL broadcast e-mail today. Thought it interesting, especially the comment in bold. It's publicly available at
PV FIRE SAFETY
Mitigating the hazards of fire involving PV arrays
Safety is about preparing for the unexpected. Aside from minimizing potential dangers through safety certification, UL also performs safety research – so when accidents do happen, whatever the cause, we can reliably predict any hazards which may further complicate the incident.
One example of this is UL’s recently concluded investigation on the electrical and fire hazards associated with PV systems, especially the potential risks to the fire service during firefighting operations. Under the Firefighter Grant Program of the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS), UL conducted experiments to gather vital empirical data.
A wide range of tests were conducted on rack mounted, shingle and membrane modules, including a freestanding house with a full-scale PV array mounted on its roof. Among the findings, for instance, were that the light created by the fire itself is sufficient to generate current at hazardous levels in a typical rooftop PV array – even at night.
Based on these and other findings, a comprehensive interactive training tool has been developed, demonstrating clear steps which firefighters can take to avoid electrocution and suppress the further spreading of fire.
UL’s unique experience of both fire and electrical safety have contributed significantly to this investigation and to the training tool, helping the fire service remain safe and balanced in emergency situations, while also supporting the PV industry and the safe deployment of its technology.
Robert G. Backstrom, Research Engineer Fire Hazard Group, UL
Dave Dini, Research Engineer Electrical Hazard Group, UL Corporate Research
Good on ya,
Goober Dave
Haven't see the forum policies? Do so now: Forum Policies
PV FIRE SAFETY
Mitigating the hazards of fire involving PV arrays
Safety is about preparing for the unexpected. Aside from minimizing potential dangers through safety certification, UL also performs safety research – so when accidents do happen, whatever the cause, we can reliably predict any hazards which may further complicate the incident.
One example of this is UL’s recently concluded investigation on the electrical and fire hazards associated with PV systems, especially the potential risks to the fire service during firefighting operations. Under the Firefighter Grant Program of the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS), UL conducted experiments to gather vital empirical data.
A wide range of tests were conducted on rack mounted, shingle and membrane modules, including a freestanding house with a full-scale PV array mounted on its roof. Among the findings, for instance, were that the light created by the fire itself is sufficient to generate current at hazardous levels in a typical rooftop PV array – even at night.
Based on these and other findings, a comprehensive interactive training tool has been developed, demonstrating clear steps which firefighters can take to avoid electrocution and suppress the further spreading of fire.
UL’s unique experience of both fire and electrical safety have contributed significantly to this investigation and to the training tool, helping the fire service remain safe and balanced in emergency situations, while also supporting the PV industry and the safe deployment of its technology.
Robert G. Backstrom, Research Engineer Fire Hazard Group, UL
Dave Dini, Research Engineer Electrical Hazard Group, UL Corporate Research
Good on ya,
Goober Dave
Haven't see the forum policies? Do so now: Forum Policies
