Installers of solar panels regularly work unsafely, according to research by the labor inspectorate. But how is it then? A portcullis, a harness, a sturdy scaffold and any other personal protective equipment, that’s what they teach the mechanics at Kemkens Solar in Oss. Anyone who does not work safely despite this instruction will be fired. For example, another mechanic was fired on Thursday morning, says branch manager Alexander Plantenga.
Mechanics walk back and forth on the roof of a farm shed near Deursen. It is quite a job to install all the solar panels in the village near Ravenstein. They are not afraid of heights, but if they slip and still fall, there is always a safety harness and a large portcullis.
“As soon as we receive an order, we first look and identify the risks,” says Plantenga. “What are the dangers? How can we make it safe?”
“You see a lot of cowboys.”
Solar panel technician Leon Vlaskamp also sees that many companies work unsafely. “You see a lot of cowboys. They don’t take it that seriously and go up the ladder with panels. If I see that, I’ll talk to them. Wouldn’t you even start protecting. And if they don’t, I’ll call the labor inspection Because it is also unfair competition. Because they don’t spend time taking safety measures, they can make cheaper quotes.”
A portcullis is mandatory with a sloping roof (more than 15 degrees). Otherwise, an adapted scaffold may be used. “It is not only a question of materials, but also of knowledge and attitude,” says Plantenga.
“Rotten apples have to go.”
Soon he and colleagues from other companies will be sitting at the table with the labor inspectorate to discuss safe working at heights.
“Sometimes mechanics don’t have the right attitude. This morning I said goodbye to someone who worked unsafely for the second time this week. Such a dismissal is extra annoying because of the staff shortage, but you also have to send a signal to the other mechanics. Rotte apples have to go.”
READ ALSO: ‘Many solar panel companies flout safety rules’
