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L4 Quiz Key: Solar Electrical Safety

1) NFPA 70E provides guidance for which of the following?

a) Electrical System Design
b) Roof Safety and Worker protection
c) Electrical Safety in the Workplace
d) PV Installation Best Practices

Electrical Safety in the W orkplace

Explanation
NFPA 70E - Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, from the National Fire
Protection Association, helps employers and workers reduce the hazards that workers are
exposed to during electrical work. Its recommendations are in-line with those from OSHA
and consistent with those in NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC).

2) According to NFPA 70E, employers have the responsibility to do which of the following if
employees are working on electrical systems? (choose three)
a) Establish lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures
b) Provide equipment necessary to execute LOTO
c) Meet employee LOTO health insurance requirements
d) Adequately train employees to design electrical systems
e) Provide LOTO training to employees

Establish lockout/ tagout (LOTO) procedures, P rovide equipm ent necessary to

execute LOTO, P rovide LOTO training to em ployees
Explanation
NFPA Article 120 provides the guidance on how to comply with OSHA 29 CFR Part
1910.147. Employers are required to develop, implement, and enforce lockout/tagout
programs, provide the necessary equipment to execute the LOTO procedures, and ‘provide
effective training as mandated for all employees covered by the standard.’

3) On a grid-direct residential PV installation site (no energy storage), what two power sources
will always be present?
a) Wind generator
b) Fossil fuel generator
c) Utility grid
d) PV array

Utility grid, P V array

Explanation
AC electricity is supplied by the utility grid and must be appropriately isolated from
equipment being worked on using LOTO procedures. The worker is also exposed to DC
electricity, from the PV modules, and they must also isolate DC electricity from the PV
 modules. Remember, any time the PV modules are exposed to sunlight, they will produce
voltage. Residential PV systems are allowed by the National Electrical Code (NEC) to have a
maximum voltage of 600 volts.

4) A residential home has an existing multimode PV system (utility grid-connected with batteries).
The system also includes a back-up generator. The workers will be installing an additional 4kW
PV array. Which five sources of electricity must the worker identify and ensure an electrically
safe work area?
a) Utility grid
b) Battery bank
c) Back-up generator
d) Wind generator
e) Existing PV array
f) New PV array

Utility grid, Battery bank, Back-up generator, Existing P V array, New P V array
Explanation
For this particular system, along with the utility grid, the home has an existing PV array,
battery bank, and back-up generator. The new PV array being installed is another source of
electricity that must be isolated as it is being installed. No worker should be exposed to
energized equipment or circuits during the installation, and appropriate electrical PPE must
be used when testing and/or commissioning the system.

5) In the PV system depicted, use the list below to identify locations for each lock-out/tag-out
device (1 – 5).

a) DC Disconnect 1) ___
b) PV source circuit (home runs) 2) ___
c) Inverter output circuit breaker 3) ___
d) Main circuit breaker 4) ___
e) AC Disconnect 5) ___

1) P V Source circuit (hom e runs), 2) DC Disconnect, 3) AC Disconnect, 4)

I nverter output circuit breaker, 5) M ain circuit break er
Explanation
From left to right in the diagram, starting with the PV array: 1) PV source circuit conductors
leave the array and pass through a 2) DC disconnect, which would be installed next to
and/or integrated within the inverter. Moving to the right, the inverter output circuit passes
 through the 3) AC disconnect, on its way to the main AC service panel, where the 4)
inverter circuit breaker is located. Lastly, 5) is the main circuit breaker associated with the
electrical panel. Workers should always be aware of how many sources of electricity are on
a site, and familiarize themselves with all disconnecting means and isolating devices. Also,
workers should be comfortable reading electrical drawings, and understand how, where,
and when to eliminate the hazards to ensure a safe work environment.

Using a PV module with the following parameters, answer questions 6) and 7).
STC Specification
Voc 42.5
Vmp 34.4
Imp 8
Isc 8.8
Pmax 275

6) What is the expected open-circuit voltage for a PV system with one PV source circuit of 13
modules in series, operating under standard test conditions (STC)?
a) 42.5 Vdc
b) 552.5 Vdc
c) 240 Vac
d) 600 Vdc
e) 447.2 Vdc

552.5 Vdc
Explanation
To calculate the expected open-circuit voltage at STC for this PV source circuit, we multiply
the PV module specified open-circuit voltage (Voc) by the number of modules connected in
series. In this case:
Module Voc = 42.5 V
Number of modules in series = 13
Voc of the source circuit = module Voc x # of modules in series
= 42.5 V x 13
= 552.5 V

Remember, when connecting modules in series, the voltage adds and the current (amps)
stays the same. We do not use Vmp for our calculation because the circuit is open and not
in operation.
7) For a PV system with two source circuits of 13 modules in series, what is the expected
maximum power current (Imp) and maximum power voltage (Vmp) of the PV output circuit,
after the source circuits are wired in parallel?
a) 8 amps, 447.2 volts
b) 16 amps, 447.2 volts
c) 8.8 amps, 552.5 volts
d) 17.6 amps, 42.5 volts

16 am ps, 447.2 volts

Explanation
There are two components to this question:
1. Determine the expected maximum power voltage, or Vmp, and
2. Calculate expected maximum power current, or Imp.

First, we calculate the expected maximum power voltage by multiplying the module Vmp by
the number of modules in the PV source circuit. In this case:
Module Vmp = 34.4 V
Number of modules in series = 13
Vmp of the source circuits = module Vmp x # of modules in series
= 34.4 V x 13
= 447.2 V

This question asks for the maximum power voltage (Vmp), not the open-circuit voltage
(Voc). Vmp is the value used when the system is operating; Voc is the value used for a
system that is turned off (open circuit).

Now that we have calculated the voltage, we can determine the expected maximum power
current(Imp) of the combined strings, or PV output circuit. First, we must identify the
number of PV source circuits that are wired in parallel. In this case, there are two circuits in
parallel, which means that each circuit will contribute its own Imp. Remember, when PV
source circuits are wired in parallel, the current (amps) is additive and the voltage stays the
same. In this case, the maximum power current of the PV output circuit is:
Module Imp = 8 A
Number of PV source circuits in parallel = 2
Combined maximum power current = Module Imp x # of PV source circuits in
parallel
=8Ax2
= 16 A
8) PV technicians should only work on energized circuits when (choose three):
a) Testing for PV array voltage
b) Wiring PV modules in parallel
c) Commissioning the PV system
d) Explaining to the homeowner how to operate the PV system
e) Troubleshooting the PV system
f) Wiring the inverter output circuit to the utility grid
g) Wiring PV modules in series

Testing for P V array voltage, Com m issioning the P V system , Troubleshooting the
P V system
Explanation
The only time workers on a PV site should be exposed to live electrical circuits is when
testing, commissioning, or troubleshooting the PV system. Live circuits should NEVER be
worked on during the PV installation. All electrical work should be performed by a qualified
person. All hazards must be identified and eliminated or mitigated. Use LOTO procedures
and appropriate PPE. Know the proper safety procedures and methods for the task and
obtain appropriate safety training!

9) When using a meter to test PV array voltage of a residential grid-direct system, a worker
should wear appropriate PPE, including which one of the following?
a) Steel toe boots
b) Electrically insulated gloves
c) Hard hat
d) Kevlar pants

Electrically insulated gloves

Explanation
While performing any type of voltage testing, a worker should wear the appropriately-rated
electrically insulated gloves. The NEC limits PV system voltage on one- and two-family
dwellings (our homes) to 600 volts, so the electrical gloves must AT MINIMUM be rated for
600 VDC if working on a residential system.

10) A series arc-fault in a PV system can be caused by which of the following? (choose three)
a) Loose wire terminations
b) Low voltage
c) Manufacturer defects within the PV module
d) Loose PV module quick connectors
e) Extreme irradiance
f) Extreme temperature

Loose w ire term inations, M anufacturer defects w ithin the P V m odule, Loose P V
m odule quick connectors
Explanation
A series arc-fault occurs when a high-resistance point occurs in a current-carrying circuit.
The connection loses good continuity, but the flow of current isn’t stopped – rather it arcs
across the failure point, generating enormous amounts of heat very quickly. Because the
current in the circuit is not different than normal, overcurrent protection devices don’t help,
 nor does ground-fault protection, since the fault isn’t to ground. As a result, undetected arc-
faults are very likely to cause a fire.

11) PV circuits inside a building must be in a _________ raceway from point of building
penetration to the first readily accessible disconnecting means.
a) PVC
b) PV
c) Metal
d) Schedule 80
e) Disconnecting

M etal
Explanation
Because DC PV circuits are energized whenever modules are exposed to sunlight, extra
precautions are required to protect these circuits from damage, and to provide a path to
ground. The NEC requires a metal raceway (such as EMT or FMC) or metal clad cable (MC)
for DC PV circuits inside a building, prior to the first readily accessible disconnect. It is a
good idea to provide this additional level of extra protection for all DC PV circuits anywhere
inside a building.

12) True or False: Short circuiting a battery bank is not a safety hazard if operating at less than
50V.

False
Explanation
Regardless of the voltage potential, short-circuiting a battery is one of the most dangerous
things that could be done when working with batteries! Batteries hold a significant amount
of energy, and when short-circuited they will instantly release all of the stored energy.
Hazards can include an arc-flash, fire and/or explosions, and the release of dangerous
chemicals. Proper PPE must be worn by any technician who is working on or near batteries.
And, of course, this person must be qualified and aware of the hazards presented by
batteries.

13) Electric shock risk and severity depend on a variety of factors. Choose four from the list
below.
a) Voltage
b) Current
c) Path of current through the body
d) Time of day
e) Duration of current through the body
f) Height of worker

Voltage, Current, P ath of current through the body, Duration of current through
the body
Explanation
The severity of an electrical hazard depends greatly on the following:
1. the electrical potential, or voltage, of the circuit or equipment that has been
contacted, and
 2. the amount, path, and duration of current that passes through the body.
A very small amount of current through the body can cause serious injury or death.

14) A worker who has experienced an electric shock may experience:

a) Electrical burns
b) Heart attack or irregular heartbeat
c) Headaches
d) Problems with breathing, swallowing, vision, hearing
e) Loss of consciousness
f) All of the above

All of the above

Explanation
After an electric shock, a person could experience any of the above, not to mention death.
Please be safe when working on Solar PV and any electrical system. Obtain appropriate
training, become a qualified person, and understand the hazards – and how to eliminate or
mitigate them – before performing work. Always wear the proper personal protective
equipment for the task at hand.

15) An arc-flash hazard, caused by the release of energy from an electric arc, will likely consist of
which three of the following?
a) Extreme temperatures
b) PV array over voltage
c) Blinding light
d) Intense pressure and sound
e) Radioactive material

Extrem e tem peratures, Blinding light, I ntense pressure and sound

Explanation
An arc flash is caused by the release of energy from an electric arc, during a fault – or
short-circuit - situation. Some possible causes include:
1. Accidental contact of energized circuits or equipment
2. Equipment that is not rated properly for the amount of current available.
3. Deterioration, corrosion, contamination or otherwise compromised electrical equipment
4. Accidental contact with a tool while performing energized work

16) A ground fault occurs when a PV circuit conductor makes contact with which of the following?
a) Equipment grounding conductor
b) PV module frame
c) Metal Enclosure
d) Metal Conduit
e) Racking system
f) All of the above

All of the above

Explanation
Ground faults are more likely to occur within poorly installed PV systems. Ground faults
occur when any energized PV circuit conductor – DC positive or negative – comes into
 contact with the equipment grounding conductor, or ANY metal that is properly grounded
(for instance metal conduit, aluminum or steel racking, or an aluminum PV module frame).

17) Ground faults in a PV system are commonly caused by _________________ and

____________________.
a) Faulty inverters
b) Compromised conductor insulation
c) Pinched wires between module frames and mounting structure
d) Workers prepping module wiring while on the ground
e) Microinverters

Com prom ised conductor insulation, P inched w ires betw een m odule fram es and
m ounting structure
Explanation
Ground faults occur when an energized PV conductor comes into contact with any grounded
metal surface that is connected to ground. Two common causes are:
1. conductors getting pinched between a module frame and the metal racking, and
2. compromised conductor insulation
Pinched conductors are easily avoidable, and often occur when workers are moving too fast
and fail to see that a module frame was set on a conductor. When the clamps holding the
module to the racking are tightened, they pinch the wire and damage the insulation.
Compromised insulation could also be caused by careless wire pulling or movement of the
conductors or conduit due to expansion and contraction. Good installation procedures and
processes can be followed to help eliminate ground faults. Proper wire management is
critical in the PV industry, where we want to make sure every system is installed correctly
and safely.

18) What can be used to isolate the PV array from the inverter? Choose two.
a) Blanket
b) DC disconnect
c) Reflective Tarp
d) AC Disconnect
e) PV module quick connectors

DC disconnect, PV module quick connectors

Explanation
The DC power from the PV array must be treated as live at all times and must be isolated
only by Lockout/Tagout methods. Using LOTO on the DC disconnect or on the PV source
circuits at the array is the only way to safely isolate the array. Using a covering on the array
is not sufficient. Many tarps and other coverings still let through enough light to produce
dangerous levels of current and voltage. Securing a covering in place is very difficult and
does not ensure an electrically safe working environment. Additionally, the PV cells can
receive exposure to sunlight through PV module back sheets; this is especially problematic
for ground mounted systems.
19) Workers should always check for _____________ in all circuits before opening a non-load
break rated device, such as a fuse holder or PV module quick connectors.
a) voltage
b) wind
c) irradiance
d) current
e) heat

current
Explanation
It is critical to always use a clamp-on meter to check for current before opening any fuses
or non-load break rated connectors or devices (such as tip-out fuse folders or PV module
connectors). If current is flowing where or when it shouldn’t be, opening non-load break
rated devices under load can result in arcing and possibly fires.

20) True or False: Unqualified persons are permitted past the restricted approach boundary only if
they are supervised.

False
Explanation
According to NFPA 70E, shock protection boundaries include the restricted approach
boundary, where unqualified persons are not permitted. Within the restricted approach
boundary qualified persons may pass, with appropriate PPE. Within the lim ited approach
boundary, unqualified persons are allowed to pass with continuous guidance and escort
from qualified person.