REC Installation Manual - 72-cell panels - IEC 61215 / 61730
Rev E - 10.20
Ref: NE-06-21
4
SAFETY MEASURES
Installers are responsible for the safe and effective installation and operation of the system and for adhering to all applicable local and national
standards and regulations. All relevant local codes and regulations should be referred to and observed as well as regulations on working at heights
and fall protection.
SAFETY IN THE WORKING AREA
i) Safety in the working area
Installation of REC solar panels may involve working on rooftops or raised platforms. Ensure all local regulations regarding working at heights are
followed. Before beginning work on a photovoltaic system, ensure all working surfaces are structurally sound and capable of bearing the weight of
employees and required equipment.
Remember to isolate the system from the grid before carrying out any maintenance or repair work.
ii) Preventing current generation
To prevent the panels automatically generating current (electricity) when exposed to light, shield the system with a non-transparent cover during
installation, maintenance or repair work.
iii) Specific hazards of DC electricity
Solar panels generate direct current (DC). Once current is flowing, breaking or opening a connection (e.g., disconnecting two panels) can cause an
electrical arc. Unlike low voltage AC wiring, DC arcs are not self-extinguishing. They are potentially lethal burn and fire hazards:
• Follow inverter manufacturers’ installation, handling and operating instructions,
• Remove/open the inverter AC fuse/circuit breaker before disconnecting from the public grid,
• Switch off or disconnect the inverter and wait for the time specified by the manufacturer before commencing work. High-voltage components
need sufficient time to discharge.
iv) Safety requirements
The voltage produced by a single panel and panels connected in series (voltages added together) or in parallel (currents added together) can be
dangerous. Although the fully insulated plug contacts on the panel’s output cables provide touch-safe protection, the following points must be
observed during handling to avoid the risk of sparking, fire hazards, burns and lethal electric shocks:
• Exercise extreme caution when wiring panels and look out for damaged or dirty cables etc,
• Never insert metallic or other conductive objects into plugs or sockets,
• Ensure that all electrical connections are completely dry before assembly,
• Keep all materials, tools, and working conditions dry and tidy,
• Use appropriate safety equipment e.g., non-slip footwear, insulated gloves and insulated tools,
• Solar panels produce current when exposed to sunlight. Do not connect the system to the inverter during solar exposure.
PANEL HANDLING
In order to avoid damage to the solar cells and other components, all REC solar panels should be handled with care and protected from damage at
all times. All warnings and instructions on the packaging should be observed. Follow these guidelines when unpacking, transporting, installing or
storing panels:
• Record the serial numbers prior to installation and note the information in the system documentation,
• Carry the panels using both hands and do not use the junction box or cables as a grip,
• Do not allow the panels to sag or bow under their own weight when being carried,
• Do not subject panels to loads or stresses, e.g., leaning on them or through the placing of weight on them,
• Do not stand or walk on the panels,
• Avoid dropping the panels as any damage caused may be unseen,
• Keep all electrical contacts clean and dry,
• Do not apply force to the backsheet,
• Avoid using sharp or pointed objects if panels require marking,
• Never apply paints, adhesives or detergents to the front or rear of the panel,
• Do not use any solar panel that is damaged or has been tampered with,
• Never attempt to disassemble, modify, or adapt the panels or labels in any way as this will void the warranty.
Use clean and protective gloves when handling the panel as this will avoid the transfer of any fingerprints or soiling to the highly-
senstive and anti-reflective glass surface, ensuring improved light transmission and avoiding any contamination.
The pallet packaging is not water- or weatherproof. Prior to installation, and to avoid any damage or degradation to the packaging or
panel components, pallets and panels must be stored in a controlled and protected environment, ideally in internal storage conditions,
where it is shielded from the elements, e.g., rain, dust, a
nd direct sunlight. If overnight external storage in an uncontrolled environment
is unavoidable, the panels and the pallet packaging must be protected from direct exposure to the elements and from contact with the
ground, including earth, mud etc.
Do not use a panel which is broken or damaged. If the panel front glass is broken or laminate back sheet is damaged, it can expose
personnel to hazardous voltages.
