Page 125 - Alternative Energy Systems in Building Design

ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS 101

Figure 3.50 Wood-roof-mounted stand-off
support railing system assembly detail. Courtesy
of UniRac.

and installation methodology are subject to rigorous guidelines, which are outlined in
NEC Article 690 (discussed later).
System components, such as overcurrent devices, breakers, disconnect switches,
and enclosures, are specifically rated for the application. All equipments that are subject
to maintenance and repair are marked with special caution and safety warning tags to
prevent inadvertent exposure to hazards (see App. B for typical sign details).

SHOCK HAZARD TO FIREFIGHTERS

An important safety provision that has been overlooked in the past is collaborating
with local fire departments when designing roof-mounted solar power systems on
wood structures. In the event of a fire, the possibility of a serious shock hazard to fire-
fighters will exist in instances when roof penetration becomes necessary.