SafeWork NSW has commenced a compliance blitz focusing on the safe installation of rooftop solar devices.

Inspectors are ensuring rooftop solar business owners are checking the safety of sub-contractors and that those working in the industry are incorporating safe work practices across the board.

“Inspectors often find those in the solar industry taking shortcuts and endangering the lives of workers by not having adequate safety measures in place. We will be taking a zero-tolerance approach and those caught will be fined and potentially prosecuted,” SafeWork NSW head Trent Curtin says.

“Last year, preventing falls from heights was a regulatory priority for SafeWork NSW and this year we will continue to prioritise the safety of workers, especially those involved in the installation of solar panels.”

In 2022, SafeWork Inspectors visited 86 rooftop solar installation sites and observed a high level of non-compliance. During these inspections, 403 notices were issued, with fines totalling $216,864. Most notices issued were for falls from heights, followed by falling object and electrical risk.

Industry must continue to lift its standards about using higher level fall protection, such as temporary edge protection and scaffolds, as opposed to harnesses which should only be used as the last resort.

Additionally, the reliance of harnesses for fall protection continues to place worker’s lives at risk due to the high proportion of systems that are either set up incorrectly or not being used safely.

If rooftop solar retailers and installers are found to not be meeting their legislative requirements, they can face a fine of up to $3,600.