Solar energy is increasingly becoming ever more popular world wide as an alternative means to producing usable energy. Many installations are taking place on highrise apartment and condominium buildings in an effort to reduce both the carbon footprint of the building as well as operation costs. On many of these building rooftops, there are a series of existing systems already in place. Roof drains, vents, mechanical equipment, cell towers, etc... Not the least of which are window washing, suspended maintenance and fall protection systems. Roof anchors.
In order for a roof anchor system to function properly, the anchor point locations are calculated and engineered very precisely. Obstructing or covering up roof anchor points, can void the validity of the window washing system. Thus, when solar manufacturers or installers are considering placing units on roof tops with anchor systems, they should immediately consult a reputable manufacturer to determine the roof anchor implications of adding solar equipment.
Many companies are glad to help. Window washing system manufacturers can review building drawings and determine 'safe zone' locations for the panels to be installed that won't affect the layout of the roof anchor system. Many will also attend site visits and review as built conditions free of charge.
When solar panel supports are vertical HSS tubes permanently secured to the roof, you may want to consider having a roof anchor manufacturer to supply and install. These supports very often are exactly the same as a roof anchor, just without the eye / u-bar on the top. Some manufacturers can also weld a u-bar onto the side of the vertical HSS post thus allowing the solar panel supports to double as roof anchors.
One more thing to consider when placing solar panels on roof tops is the proximity of the panels to the roof edge. If the roof parapet is low, and the panels are close to the edge, workers who have to traverse these areas are placed in a fall hazard situation. Fall protection systems should be installed in these areas to protect workers performing routine roof or panel maintenance. Generally, workers should be tied off to fall protection systems when they are within 6' of a parapet that is 36" or shorter, and exposed to fall of 10' or more.
Michael Gray
Ontario and Eastern Canada
Marketing and Sales Support
Pro-Bel Enterprises Ltd
e: mikegray@pro-bel.ca
t: @Pro_Bel
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