Green job industries like solar and wind energy are at the forefront of building a sustainable future. But with rising demand for green jobs comes the need to understand the unique occupational hazards these industries bring along. While safer energy solutions are always being developed, the work involved in these sectors presents challenges that require proactive safety measures.
Adopting green job safety measures isn’t just about compliance with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations. It’s about building a culture of safety that protects workers, minimizes risks, and ensures operational efficiency no matter what industry you’re in.
Solar
The solar energy sector has grown rapidly over the last decade, driven by the widespread installation of photovoltaic systems and solar farms nationwide. However, the nature of this work is not without its own hazards.
Crane and hoist safety
Solar panels are installed at heights on rooftops or large poles to capitalize on existing real estate or to provide direct access to sunlight. Using cranes and hoists to lift heavy solar panels into place is a common practice. Improperly secured loads, malfunctioning equipment, or lack of adequate training can result in accidents or injuries.
Safety Tip: Ensure all crews operate within OSHA standards for crane and hoist safety. Operators must be fully certified, and equipment should be inspected regularly to prevent malfunctions.
Lockout/tagout
Electrical hazards in solar installations are a significant concern. Workers often deal with live electrical systems when maintaining or repairing solar panels, which poses a risk without the proper lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures in place.
Safety Tip: Enforce strict LOTO policies to ensure that equipment is powered down safely during maintenance. Provide lockout/tagout training regularly to ensure everyone on the team is up to date with electrical isolation protocols.
Heat stress
Outdoor solar panel installation frequently takes place in direct sunlight in rural areas or even deserts, exposing workers to heat stress and dehydration.
Safety Tip: Implement mandatory breaks, provide adequate hydration, and equip workers with cooling gear during projects conducted in high temperatures.
Recycling
Recycling is vital to reducing landfill waste, and creating an economy around post-consumer materials, but the work environment in recycling plants comes with its own set of unique hazards.
Hazardous materials
Workers in the recycling industry often handle items containing toxic chemicals, like batteries, electronic waste, or fluorescent bulbs. Physical contact or inhalation can result in serious health issues.
Safety Tip: Equip workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, masks, and goggles. Additionally, provide safety training on how to properly handle hazardous materials.
Vehicles and machinery
Recycling plants involve heavy machinery and vehicles such as compactors, balers, and forklifts. The risk of accidents is significant in crowded workspaces with moving equipment.
Safety Tip: Establish clear transportation safety protocols, mark operational zones, and maintain machinery regularly to prevent unexpected failures.
Wind Energy
Wind turbines at sea and on land are leading the green energy revolution. However, the construction and maintenance processes present several hazards for workers at all stages of development.
Falls
Falls from turbine towers are one of the most common safety issues in wind energy construction and maintenance.
Safety Tip: OSHA-mandated fall safety measures, like harnesses and fall arrest systems, should be strictly followed for anyone working at heights. Using a “buddy system” to provide support and extra awareness of a job environment is a key safety measure to employ.
Confined spaces
Workers may be required to ascend narrow turbines or work in confined, poorly ventilated nacelles.
Safety Tip: Train employees in working at heights and confined spaces, and equip them with communication devices for emergency support. Follow OSHA’s regulations concerning permit-required confined spaces.
Biofuels
While not as headline-grabbing as large-scale construction projects for solar arrays or wind farms, biofuels continue to reduce our dependence on non-renewable energy sources as the chemistry and technology advances.
Chemical reactivity and toxicity
The production of biofuels involves handling chemicals that may be flammable, reactive, or toxic. Mishandling these materials can result in fires or health issues.
Safety Tip: Conduct regular safety audits and enforce chemical handling best practices. Provide workers with high-quality PPE and thorough training in chemical safety.
Create a Safety-First Culture
No matter what green energy industry you’re a part of, safety starts with a genuine commitment to worker well-being. And that’s where Work-Fit comes in.
At Work-Fit, we understand the physical demands of rapidly developing green job industries. Our industrial athletic trainers specialize in keeping your workforce safe, efficient, and injury-free. By mastering proper lifting techniques, improving task ergonomics, and creating structured wellness plans, we reduce workplace risks and promote a healthier, happier team.
Learn more about how Work-Fit can help transform your job site and culture of safety for the better by starting a conversation with our team today.
