Solar Industry & Ontario Fire Chiefs Announce New Solar Safety Training Program

In an effort to continue to improve the safety of firefighters and the people they protect, the Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA) and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) today announced the completion of a new training program for firefighters.

The program addresses safety considerations and fire fighting protocols for successfully fighting fires where photovoltaic systems are in place.

The CanSIA – OAFC partnership began in April of this year when both organizations recognized the need to ensure that firefighters are properly trained to deal with incidents in areas where solar panels may be present.

“Members of the solar industry have always put safety first so we are extremely pleased that this new training manual for first responders is complete,” said CanSIA President and CEO John Gorman. “In 6 short months our collaborative efforts through the Solar PV Fire Safety Working Committee have ensured that firefighters will have a better understanding of photovoltaic systems”.

The program includes a training manual specific to solar power, a solar safety handbook, and protocols to be followed such as visible notification that solar power systems are present. Reciprocal speaking opportunities to better educate each other’s industries will also help educate firefighters.

“Resident and firefighter safety is a priority of fire chiefs across the province. We are pleased that our partnership with CanSIA, will provide additional training and safety measures,” said OAFC President Matt Pegg. “The fast paced growth of solar energy in Ontario over the last few years strengthens the need for more specific training for our firefighters. Working together with front line solar industry experts will assist us in better serving our communities.”

This Ontario initiative emphasizes CanSIA’s commitment to safety and is an important beginning of what will become a nationwide education program.

CanSIA
www.cansia.ca