The current energy situation and the need to comply with the objectives of the European Union established in the EU Directive 2018/2011, on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources, has led to a boom in the sector of companies dedicated to the installation of photovoltaic panels.

At the same time, this increase has also been reflected in the accident rate associated with this activity, given that most of the time it is carried out at heights, with a significant increase in the number of accidents due to falls.

The reasons for the materialization of this risk may be several, mainly the lack of adequate means of access, as you can see in the attached picture, and the insufficient resistance of the roofs due to fragile elements, such as skylights, among others.

In view of this situation, on September 19, 2022, the Consortium of Labor Inspection and Social Security of Catalonia published a communication that has been sent to some companies in the sector. The purpose of this communication is none other than to remind the employer that the health and safety of its employees must be guaranteed, and that the appropriate assessment of the risk of falling in work at height must be carried out, as well as the necessary preventive measures to eliminate or reduce this risk.

It also clearly reminds that, after one month from its dispatch, inspections may be initiated to verify the proper compliance with the regulations on preventive matters.

Has your company received this communication and are you concerned about how your organization manages this type of risk? Contact us, we will be happy to help you.