Guideline

What you will need if you or your window cleaner were to complete the task.

We completely understand that during this cost of living crisis that this is a job you could tackle yourself or, indeed, commission your window cleaner to complete the task.

What Effect on The Body Does DC Electrocution Have?

DC electrocution causes muscle contraction. This is the reason a person can often not ‘let go’ of the source of electrocution. As a result, a few things happen to the body. Firstly, electrocution can cause fibrillation of the heart. This is where all of the muscles in your heart start to move independently of each other, instead of moving in sync. This can lead to your heart not pumping blood around the body correctly, which can result in brain damage and cardiac arrest. DC shock can be lethal both from the effect it has on the body and also by causing a person to fall from height when cleaning solar panels. Burn injuries can also occur.

How Can Solar Panels Be Cleaned Safely?

Your solar panels should ONLY be cleaned by trained professionals, not window cleaners. How can you tell if they are professionals? Firstly, prior to works commencing they should be able to provide you with a copy of their public liability insurance certificate which specifically has ‘solar panel cleaning’ in its wording. This allows you to make a claim from them if they damage your solar array. Secondly, they should be able to present you with a Risk Assessment & Method Statement (RAMS). This document highlights the risks associated with solar panel cleaning and how they intend to reduce these risks, including the electrocution risk. It should also explain to you how they intend to clean your solar panel safely. Thirdly, they should wear suitable PPE that will protect them from electrocution whilst cleaning. Lastly, it is advisable to choose a company with track record. Ask for references of previous clients they have cleaned.

If they cannot provide ALL the above, DO NOT allow them to clean your solar panels. The risk to themselves and to your system is too great.

WE DO NOT ADVISE THAT YOU DO SO !

We would rather give advice that prevents an accident or injury to people or property.

Therefore, a checklist is provided below for your task should you choose to accept it……….

Homeowner, DIY Hobbyist.

RE1360/ Polyco gloves Class 1
RE-PRONB/ Gauntlet over gloves (volt protection)
Rubber soled footwear
Eye protection & coverall clothing
Temperature probe/gun
Pure water with a TDS(PPM) of ZERO
SolClean soft wash
Lichen removal agent
FIBERGLASS pole system
FIBERGLASS chemical delivery system
Ladder or access platform
CLASS C rated fire extinguisher
BS 8599- 1:2019 Trauma/ First aid kit

Window cleaners

****ALL OF THE ABOVE PLUS TRAINING****
Public Liability/ Employers Liability which covers you & Your clients property