RISK ASSESSMENT
AT THE WORKPLACE
RELATED TO
SOLAR ENERGY
1
Contents
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 3
CONCEPT OF RISK ASSESSMENT IN SOLAR ENERGY TECHNOLOGY ................................... 3
IMPORTANCE OF IDENTIFYING AND MITIGATING WORKPLACE RISKS .................................. 3
CEB SOLAR INSTALLATION
PROJECT OVERVIEW .................................................................. 5
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT ........................................................................................................ 5
SCOPE OF PROJECT .................................................................................................................... 5
HAZARD IDENTIFICATION................................................................................................................. 6
IDENTIFIED POTENTIAL HAZARDS ASSOCIATED WITH CEB SOLAR FARM PROJECT .......... 6
RISK ASSESSMENT ........................................................................................................................... 7
IDENTIFIED HAZARDS IN TERMS OF POTENTIAL SEVERITY AND LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE
........................................................................................................................................................ 7
USE OF A RISK MATRIX TO CATEGORISE RISKS INTO LEVELS .............................................. 8
IMPACT OF ASSESSED RISKS ON EMPLOYEES, THE PROJECT AND THE ENVIRONMENT .. 9
Impact on employees ...................................................................................................................... 9
Impact on the project....................................................................................................................... 9
Impact on the environment .............................................................................................................. 9
MITIGATION STRATEGIES .............................................................................................................. 10
SPECIFIC MITIGATION STRATEGY FOR THE IDENTIFIED RISKS ........................................... 10
CONCLUSION .................................................................................................................................. 12
KEY FINDINGS OF RISK ASSESSMENT..................................................................................... 12
IMPORTANCE OF IMPLEMENTING MITIGATION MEASURES .................................................. 12
ROLE OF SOLAR ENERGY TECHNOLOGY PROFFESSIONALS ............................................... 12
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INTRODUCTION
In line with the Mauritius Renewable Energy Roadmap 2030 to meet 60% of renewable energy in the national
energy mix by 2030, solar energy technology is a critical component of sustainable energy production and
has gained significant attention in recent years. While solar technology offers numerous benefits, such as
renewable energy production, reduced carbon emissions and aiding in transitioning towards cleaner and
renewable energy sources, it is not without its risks to those involved, especially to Solar Photovoltaic (PV)
installers.
Risk assessment in solar energy technology involves evaluating and quantifying potential risks, uncertainties,
and hazards associated with the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of solar systems. When it
comes to risk assessment for PV installers, there are several areas that need to be considered to ensure the
safety of both the installers and the surrounding environment. These are not limited to: Site Evaluation,
Electrical Hazards, Manual Handling, Working at height, Emergency procedures, Equipment and Tools.
CONCEPT OF RISK ASSESSMENT IN SOLAR ENERGY
TECHNOLOGY
A key aspect in the implementation and operation of solar energy technology is the concept of risk
assessment. In Mauritius this concept was introduced with the enactment of the Occupational Safety and
Health Act (OSHA 2005). Its process comprises of five crucial steps namely: Planning, Hazard Identification,
Evaluation, Control, Monitoring and Review.
IMPORTANCE OF IDENTIFYING AND MITIGATING
WORKPLACE RISKS
Solar technology projects involve various tasks and activities that can be physically demanding and
potentially hazardous. These tasks may include working at heights, handling heavy equipment and materials,
exposure to electrical hazards, and working in extreme weather conditions amongst others. Without proper
risk identification, workers may be exposed to these risks without adequate measures in place to protect
them. Additionally, risk identification and mitigation in solar technology projects is crucial for the overall
success and efficiency of the projects. Without proper risk management, projects
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may face delays, cost overruns, and potential accidents or injuries. Moreover, risk identification and mitigation
allow project managers to proactively plan and allocate resources to address potential risks in a timely
manner. By identifying risks early on, project teams can develop strategies and implement controls to mitigate
these risks, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents or incidents occurring. Most importantly, it is a
requirement by law and the OSHA 2005 stipulates that every employer shall suitably and sufficiently conduct
a risk assessment within 30 days of the start of his project and shall act accordingly in the event of any
insufficiencies.
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CEB SOLAR INSTALLATION PROJECT
OVERVIEW
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT
It is the second-phase of the implementation of the Solar Farm PV Project, which involves the addition of a
further capacity of 8 MW to Solar PV Farm of 2 MW at Henrietta which was commissioned in April 2019. The
solar PV farm project aims to design, construct, and deploy an 8 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) farm by February
2023.
The project involves an investment of $8 million and has been awarded to Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited
(BHEL), a well-established company with experience in renewable energy projects. The solar PV farm
consists of photovoltaic panels mounted on frames. The panels are strategically positioned across the
designated site in Henrietta, considering factors such as sunlight availability and optimal energy generation.
To ensure the successful completion of the project, key activities will include securing necessary permits and
approvals, procuring high-quality solar panels and equipment, and conducting rigorous testing and
commissioning.
SCOPE OF PROJECT
In the 2022-2023 budget, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to the transition to a green economy
and has outlined its intention to take on board Investment by the CEB in an 8 MW solar PV farm at Henrietta
by February 2023 to increase its capacity from 2 MW to 10 MW. CEB subsequently launched a tender for an
8MW ac solar PV farm project valued at $8 million. The CEB awarded the contract to Bharat Heavy
Electricals Limited (BHEL), an Indian company specialized in power production, photovoltaics, and
transmission solutions. The completion of this solar PV farm project will not only generate clean and
sustainable electricity but also make a significant contribution to achieving regional sustainability goals. It will
reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and foster a more environmentally friendly
energy infrastructure in Henrietta. However, the deadline for the project has been missed and no official date
has been promulgated yet.
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HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
IDENTIFIED POTENTIAL HAZARDS ASSOCIATED WITH CEB
SOLAR FARM PROJECT
IDENTIFIED HAZARD
TYPE OF HAZARD
01
Very slippery passage due to muddy terrain during
rainfall
Environmental
02
Lots of small scrap metal pieces with sharp edges
scattered on site/ not properly disposed of
Mechanical
03
Risk of falling in cable trenches more than 1m
deep
Mechanical
04
Broken PVs on site not properly disposed of
Chemical
05
Exposure to weed whilst working under PV
Mounting Structure may cause itchy skin
Biological
06
Awkward positions and movements need to be
adopted when working under PV mounting
structures
Ergonomic
07
Exposure to Extreme temperatures and solar
radiation for long periods of time
08
Electric Shock
09
PV carton boxes left on site may catch fire when
exposed to extreme heat.
Environmental
Physical
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Fire
RISK ASSESSMENT
IDENTIFIED HAZARDS IN TERMS OF POTENTIAL SEVERITY
AND LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE
IDENTIFIED HAZARD
Potential
Severity
Likelihood
of
Occurrence
01
Very slippery passage due to muddy terrain during
rainfall
Significant Injury
Very Likely
02
Lots of small scrap metal pieces with sharp edges
scattered on site/ not properly disposed of
Significant Injury
Possible
03
Risk of falling in cable trenches more than 1m deep
Serious Injury
Possible
04
Broken PVs on site not properly disposed of
Serious Injury
Possible
05
Exposure to weed whilst working under PV Mounting
Structure may cause itchy skin
Minor Injury
06
Awkward positions and movements need to be adopted
when working under PV mounting structures
Serious Injury
07
Exposure to Extreme temperatures and solar radiation
for long periods of time
Significant Injury
Unlikely
08
Electric Shock
Serious Injury
Unlikely
09
PV carton boxes left on site may catch fire when
exposed to extreme heat.
Serious Injury
Possible
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Likely
Very Likely
USE OF A RISK MATRIX TO CATEGORISE RISKS INTO
LEVELS
Risk Rating Risk Rating
Level
(number)
IDENTIFIED HAZARD
01
Very slippery passage due to muddy terrain
during rainfall
4
Medium
02
Lots of small scrap metal pieces with sharp
edges scattered on site/ not properly disposed of
4
Medium
03
Risk of falling in cable trenches more than 1m
deep
6
Medium
04
Broken PVs on site not properly disposed of
6
Medium
05
Exposure to weed whilst working under PV
Mounting Structure may cause itchy skin
3
Medium
06
Awkward positions and movements need to be
adopted when working under PV mounting
structures
12
High
07
Exposure to Extreme temperatures and solar
radiation for long periods of time
2
Low
08
Electric Shock
3
Medium
09
PV carton boxes left on site may catch fire when
exposed to extreme heat.
6
Medium
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IMPACT OF ASSESSED RISKS ON EMPLOYEES, THE
PROJECT AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Impact on employees
The risks identified and associated with the solar PV farm can have a profound impact on the safety and
well-being of employees. The morale of employees will be affected and when employees feel unsafe or
uncertain about their well-being, it can lead to decreased motivation and lower productivity levels. This can
have a direct impact on the overall success and efficiency of the project.
Impact on the project
The overall success and viability of solar PV farms project can be affected by delays in construction,
equipment failures, supply chain disruptions, changes in regulatory frameworks and failure to meet
objectives set by the government.
Impact on the environment
Improper disposal of damaged panels can lead to pollution, adverse effects including losses in biodiversity,
decreased growth and reproductive rates in plants and animals, and neurological effects in vertebrates.
Therefore, it is crucial to implement sustainable practices, such as proper waste management and
recycling, to minimize the environmental impact of solar PV farms.
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MITIGATION STRATEGIES
SPECIFIC MITIGATION STRATEGY FOR THE IDENTIFIED
RISKS
IDENTIFIED HAZARD
01
Very slippery passage due to
muddy terrain during rainfall
MITIGATION STRATEGY
1. It is important to implement temporary rope guard
rails with top rail and mid-rails be at least ¼-inch
nominal diameter or thickness to prevent cuts and
lacerations.
2. Wearing of anti-slip shoes
3. Apply administrative controls for employees to
adhere to wearing of Personal Protective Equipment
when entering site.
Lots of small scrap metal pieces
02 with sharp edges scattered on site/
not properly disposed of
1. All pieces of similar risk to be placed in a
demarcated zone and carry out regular checks for
proper waste management.
2. Proper signs for indicating the demarcated zone.
Risk of falling in cable trenches
more than 1m deep
1. Implement proper fall protection measures such as
harnesses, guardrails, and safety net where
applicable
2. Placing of adequate Warning Signs at various
locations of trenches to indicate depth and risk of
falling
03
Broken PVs on site not properly
04
disposed of
All pieces of similar risk to be placed in a demarcated zone
and carry out regular checks for proper waste management
and for proper disposal / recycling.
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Exposure to weed whilst working
05 under PV Mounting Structure may
cause itchy skin
1. Ensure regular cutting of weed especially those
under Main Mounting Structure of PVs.
2. Implement Administrative controls to adhere to
maintenance schedule for frequency of cutting of
weeds.
Awkward positions and
movements need to be adopted
06
when working under PV mounting
structures
1. Regular poses to reduce body or muscle tension.
2. Working in pairs to cover more surface area or with
an assistant to reduce effort.
Exposure to Extreme temperatures
07 and solar radiation for long periods
of time
1. Stay hydrated and provide easy access to drinking
water
2. Wearing of polarized sunglasses
3. Administrative controls to ensure regular breaks and
avoid long periods of exposure to solar radiation.
08 Electric Shock
PV carton boxes left on site
exposed to extreme temperatures
09
and solar radiation may catch fire
due to electric shock.
1. Ensure that installers are trained in electrical safety
procedures and have the necessary personal
protective equipment (PPE) to work with live
electrical systems.
2. Develop engineering controls to establish a safe
work procedure for working with electrical
connections and conducting necessary tests to
prevent electrical shock hazards.
1. Regular cleaning and disposal of waste.
2. Proper follow up with waste collection company.
3. Initiate Emergency Response Plans in case of fire
outbreak
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CONCLUSION
KEY FINDINGS OF RISK ASSESSMENT
In the realm of occupational hazards, certain work environments pose unique challenges that demand
utmost caution and attention. Using a slippery passage during rainfall to attend work site, where muddy
terrain adds to the risks, alongside the presence of scattered and improperly disposed sharp-edged scrap
metal pieces. Additionally, the dangers of falling into cable trenches, the potential harm caused by broken
PVs that are not properly disposed of, and the uncomfortable positions and movements required when
working beneath PV mounting structures, fire outbreaks and electric shock.
IMPORTANCE OF IMPLEMENTING MITIGATION MEASURES
Implementing mitigation measures not only safeguards the health and well-being of solar energy PV
installers but also enhances their overall productivity and job satisfaction. By creating a safe working
environment, employers can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, which can result in time off
work, long sick/ injury leaves and decreased productivity. When employees feel safe and supported, they
are more likely to be motivated and satisfied in their roles, leading to increased productivity and job
satisfaction. Additionally, by investing in training programs and providing proper safety equipment,
employers can demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their employees, fostering a positive
work culture and attracting skilled workers. Overall, prioritizing safety measures in the solar energy industry
not only protects workers but also contributes to a more efficient and content workforce.
ROLE OF SOLAR ENERGY TECHNOLOGY
PROFFESSIONALS
The role of Solar Energy Technology Professionals in ensuring safety in the industry should include but not
limit to:
1. The importance of proper training and certification to ensure safety standards are met in the industry.
2. Conducting regular inspections and maintenance to identify potential hazards or issues that could
compromise safety and inform safety officer in a timely manner.
3. Playing a critical role in designing and implementing effective safety protocols, including emergency
response plans, for installations and projects.
4. Ongoing education and training and staying up-to-date with advancements in the field to ensure that they
are knowledgeable and skilled in maintaining safety standards
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REFERENCES
https://ceb.mu/publications
https://climatepromise.undp.org/what-we-do/where-we-work/mauritius
Risk Assessment Guidelines for Mauritius
OSHA 2005
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