Overview
As more and more companies utilise roof space for solar panels, it is important to maintain their efficiency. Solar panels can lose up to 20% efficiency if they are not regularly maintained. Buildings in urban areas that are close to main roads can be at risk of pollution. This can reduce the efficiency of the solar panels, along with bird droppings and dust/leaf debris. If a company benefits from solar energy, it could lose money if the panels are not maintained.
Using the latest window cleaning reach and wash technology, Antac can provide solar panel cleaning. Using purified water and specialist solar panel brushes to effectively clean solar panels. This method is an excellent and effective way of reaching solar panels safely and effectively, further details outline below.
Methodology
Barriers
Before starting any work, Antac operatives erect an exclusion zone using signs/cones/ barriers/barrier tape and/or Chapter 8 Barriers to ensure third-party safety. These items are also recorded on the Assets register during each company vehicle audit.
Reach and Wash System
Solar panels will be cleaned using the Reach and Wash System. This is a safe system of cleaning with the operative on the ground and removes the need to work at heights. It uses de-ionised water which absorbs dirt, dust and bird droppings on contact. This enables a better and safer clean, offering our clients many benefits including:
- Safety – The system removes the need to work at height.
- Cost Effective
- Environmentally Friendly – Reducing the use of detergents.
Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP)
Depending on access to the roof, a MEWP may be required for cleaning solar panels. Antac owns a range of hydraulic access equipment which can cater to the most demanding of work situations, whilst also helping to reduce cost. All the operatives who are dedicated to this equipment are IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) trained and hold current powered access licences.
All our Operatives are qualified to Work @ Heights and are instructed in the use of such equipment. Antac provides Operatives with harnesses and lanyards. All harnesses/lanyards comply with current appropriate H & S standards and are inspected prior to use. Records are kept of the inspection and a copy is shared with the FM. All of our operatives are very experienced and highly trained in the use of many different safety systems.
All Access Machinery is regularly maintained/serviced/inspected and are supplied with valid 6 monthly LOLER inspection certificates. All mobile access equipment owned by Antac is regularly serviced every 8 weeks and inspected/certified by external Access lifting companies, every 6 months. Any hired in access machinery is certified by the hire company. Electrical items are PAT tested yearly.
COSHH
As outlined above Reach and Wash is environmentally neutral as no additives or detergents are used in the process.
Hazardous Substances – We do not use any.
For more information, please contact enquiries@antac.co.uk
Solar Panel Cleaning
