At New England Clean Energy, we take safety seriously—especially when it comes to the brave first responders who put their lives on the line every day. Recently, Mark, our founder and president, began delivering crucial training sessions to firefighters, focusing on the building, electrical, and fire codes that govern solar panels and home batteries. These codes are designed not only to protect homes but also to protect the safety of first responders who may need to act in emergency situations.
Mark’s training dives deep into key safety measures outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local Massachusetts fire and building codes, specifically around solar panel installations and the growing use of home batteries. The goal is simple: ensure firefighters are well-prepared and knowledgeable about how these systems work, how they are safely installed, and how they can navigate a scene without risk.
Understanding Key Codes for First Responders 
Mark’s class, which lasts an hour, provides first responders with important insights into how solar panels and batteries are installed, and how to safely manage these systems in the event of a fire or emergency. In particular, the course covers:
- Rapid Shutdown: This is a key requirement in the National Electrical Code (NEC), designed to protect first responders from the risk of electrical shock. With rapid shutdown, a single switch activated near the utility meter will drop the voltage of all the wires in a solar electric system to below 30 volts within 10 seconds. This change, which was implemented in 2014 and reinforced in 2017, ensures that even if a solar panel system is not fully turned off, no wires beyond 10 feet from the panels will remain energized. This is a critical safety feature, allowing firefighters to work around the home without risk of electrocution.
- Fire and Building Codes for Solar Panels: These codes dictate how solar panels must be installed to provide safe access for firefighters. For instance, the latest fire codes, adopted in late 2022, require solar panels to be installed with clear access paths to allow firefighters to safely ventilate a roof in the event of a fire. Panels must also be positioned at least 18 inches from the roof ridge to ensure safe access to the roof peak without having to step on the panels themselves.
- Battery Safety Codes: As home batteries become a more common component of solar installations, it’s crucial that they are installed with safety in mind. While the risk of home-battery fires is low—due to strict testing standards such as UL-9540A—safety protocols are still in place. For example, batteries must not be located in sleeping areas or adjacent to them and must be installed in rooms with a smoke detector and a door. If installed in a garage, they must also be protected from potential car impact. And last, with advances in batteries that make them able to handle the winter cold, outdoor installations are becoming more commonplace as placing them there greatly simplifies the battery placement question.
Mark’s First Solar Safety Training for Firefighters in Salem, MA
Mark recently delivered his first set of classes to firefighters at the Salem Fire Department in Massachusetts. Here’s a photo of him in front of one of the shifts during his class. The training was a success, with lots of discussion and questions from the firefighters eager to learn more about solar safety.
We’re thrilled to be able to offer this critical education to those who need it most. It’s not just about installing solar panels and batteries; it’s about ensuring that when things go wrong, first responders have the knowledge to act safely and effectively.
Background on Massachusetts Building, Electrical, and Fire Codes
In Massachusetts, building, electrical, and fire codes are updated every three years. These updates are based on national standards but are adjusted to address the unique needs of the state. For example:
- Fire Code: Based on the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA-1) code, and managed by the Board of Fire Protection & Regulation (BFPR).
- Electrical Code: Part of the fire code (NFPA-70) and managed by the State Board of Electrical Examiners.
- Building Code: Based on the International Residential Code (IRC) and incorporated into Massachusetts law as 780 CMR 1.0, also known as “The 9th Edition” or “The 10th Edition,” depending on the version.
These codes ensure that all installations, from solar panels to batteries, meet the highest safety standards to protect both homeowners and first responders.
How to Get This Solar Safety Training for Firefighters in Your Fire Department
If you’re part of a fire department and would like to have Mark come deliver this important training to your team, just give us a call! The class is an hour long and includes plenty of time for questions and discussions about the unique challenges and safety considerations when dealing with solar systems and home batteries.
Conclusion
As the use of solar panels and home batteries continues to grow, it’s vital that first responders are properly trained and equipped to handle these new technologies. At New England Clean Energy, we are committed to supporting both the community and first responders by providing essential safety training and staying up to date with the latest codes and standards.
Want more information on solar safety, installation, or training for first responders? Contact us today or check out our website for more resources. Together, we can ensure a safer and greener future for everyone.
Ready to schedule training for your fire department? Call us at (978) 567-6527 today!
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