11470 SP Photovoltaic Installer en 06web

8/21/2019 11470 SP Photovoltaic Installer en 06web

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Photovoltaic InstallerSkills Profile

Copyright 2009 Electricity Sector CouncilNo right of circulation. Not for commercial use.


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www.brightfutures.ca Photovoltaic Installer2

This project was funded by the Government of Canadas Sector Council ProgramThe opinions and interpretations in this publication are those of the author and do notnecessarily reflect those of the Government of Canada.

Copyright 2009 Electricity Sector Council

All rights reserved. The use of any part of this publication, whether it is reproduced, stored in aretrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (including electronic, mechanical,photographic, photocopying or recording), without the prior written permission of the Electricity

Sector Council is an infringement of copyright law.

About the Electricity Sector CouncilApproximately 100,000 Canadians are involved in the generation, transmission and distributionof one of our countrys essential utilities: electricity. Their work powers homes and businessesacross the country, fuelling everything from light bulbs, cell phones and refrigerators to watertreatment plants and road vehicle assembly lines.

The Electricity Sector Council provides support to this dedicated team by working with industryemployers and other stakeholders to research and resolve human resource and workplacedevelopment issues.

For more information, contact:

600 130 Slater StreetOttawa, Ontario K1P 6E2Tel: (613) 235-5540Fax: (613) [email protected]


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Photovoltaic InstallerSkills Profile

Disclaimer: Please note that some of the tasks detailed in this document will require the services of a registered trades-person depending upon the province of work. Provincial regulations change from time to time, employers and employeesshould consult your provincial appropriate licensing authority for clarification regarding which tasks may be affected. It isthe responsibility of the individual employer/employee to ensure they act within the regulation for their jurisdiction.

Area of Competence A: Work Safely

Task A.1: Follow safe work procedures

Subtasks: Supporting knowledge and abilities: Comments:

a) Follow provincial and federal policiesand/or regulations

b) Identify corporate, provincial andfederal policies required forworkplace safety

Follow company policies and guidelines

c) Identify contact person whenworkplace safety policies are violated

Inform immediate supervisor ofviolation/incident

d) Provide information aboutincident/violation

Document information using appropriatecorporate forms


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Task A.2: Use and maintain personal protective equipment


a) Identify locations where personalprotection equipment is required

Follow corporate/government policies andguidelines

b) Identify personal protectiveequipment requirements to enterspecified environments

Follow corporate/government policies and

guidelinesObtain authorization from specified fieldsafety officer and supervisor

c) Identify expiry dates on specifiedequipment

Inform field safety officer and supervisor ofequipment concerns

d) Identify wear and tear issues onequipment

Inform field safety officer and supervisor ofequipment concerns

e) Demonstrate safe and acceptedpractices for personal protection



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Task A.3: Operate motorized vehicles and equipment


a) Demonstrate ability to operate motorvehicle

Possess required licenses

Obtain licenses, as required

b) Complete applicable drivingprograms, certifications and/orlicenses

For example: defensive driving, collision

avoidance, skid control, vehicle backing,scissor lift and boom trucks, etc.

c) Secure equipment and loads Use appropriate barriers and tie downs

d) Confirm that motorized vehicle is safeand ready to operate

Comply with applicable regulations andmaintenance procedures for motorvehicles


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Task A.4: Demonstrate hazard recognition and mitigation


a) Identify environmental hazards

b) Identify electrical hazards

c) Identify personal safety hazards or

work site hazards

Use corporate and personal resources to

identify hazards and risks found on the jobsite

d) Identify environmental hazardsassociated with photovoltaicinstallations

e)

For example: through demonstratedawareness of pertinent Material SafetyData Sheets (MSDSs), disposalprocedures and other appropriatedocuments

f) Mitigate hazards Take action to eliminate or mitigatehazards


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Task A.5: Establish a safe work area


a) Identify requirements for safe workarea

Follow completed job plan steps

Use corporate resources to identifyhazards and risks found in work area

b) Create a safe work environment Follow completed job plan steps, andeliminate/ control/minimize hazards foundin work area

c) Maintain safe work habits and aclean, orderly work area

Follow completed job plan steps, andeliminate/ control/minimize hazards foundin work area

Task A.6: Demonstrate safe and proper use of required tools and equipment


a) Obtain safety training As per corporate/government policies andprocedures

b) Demonstrate safe and proper use ofrequired tools and equipment



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Task A.7: Apply lock-out and tag-out procedures


a) Identify provincial requirements forlock-out and tag-out

Obtain training on hazard identification

b) Apply lock-out and tag-outprocedures

Apply appropriate corporate policies

Task A.8: Work at heights


a) Use appropriate fall protectionequipment and systems

Obtain appropriate training for specificequipment

b) Select and use appropriateladders/scaffolding and other liftequipment

Obtain appropriate training for specificequipment

c) Apply appropriate material andequipment handling procedures


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Task A.9: Administer First Aid and CPR


a) Participate in First Aid and CPRcertification

b) Identify the location of First Aidmaterials

c) Apply First Aid and CPR procedures

d) Identify location of qualified safetyprofessionals

For example, the location of qualified high-angle rescue personnel, hospitals, etc.

Ensure that qualified First Aid personnel ison site at all times

Task A.10: Follow WHMIS regulations


a) Identify items found in WHMISguidelines

Locate WHMIS inventory listing

Locate appropriate contact person

b) Identify items not approved inWHMIS guidelines

Inform WHMIS contact person of items notapproved on inventory listing

c) Identify items not found in WHMISguidelines

Inform WHMIS contact person of items notfound on inventory listing


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Task A.11: Complete appropriate safety training


a) Obtain safety training As per corporate policy

b) Complete safety training/certification For example: WHMIS, first aid, CPR, firesafety, work permit training, grounding andbonding code training, riskmanagement/job planning training as percorporate policies and/or provincial/federalguidelines

c) Complete appropriateforms/documentation for incident ornear miss

As per corporate policy

Task A.12: Attend safety meetings


a) Identify requirements for safetymeeting attendance and procedures

Follow corporate policies and procedures


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Task A.13: Identify and mitigate safety hazards


a) Identify environmental hazards

b) Identify personal safety hazards orwork site hazards

Use corporate and personal resources toidentify hazards and risks found on the jobsite

c) Identify environmental hazardsassociated with photovoltaicinstallations

For example, through demonstratedawareness of pertinent Material SafetyData Sheets (MSDSs), disposalprocedures, and other appropriatedocuments, battery acid

d) Mitigate hazards Take action to eliminate or mitigatehazards

Task A.14: Transport and dispose of batteries


a) Complete hazardous material training

b) Obtain appropriate documentation

c) Dispose of batteries according tostandard local disposal regulations


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Area of Competence B: Confirm and Adapt System Design

Task B.1: Interpret design documents


a) Read layout diagrams, schematics,blueprints, electrical diagrams and

installation manuals for equipmentb) Comprehend layout diagrams,

schematics, blueprints, electricaldiagrams and installation manuals forequipment

c) Take action on any deficiencies,discrepancies or conflicts

Task B.2: Verify components


a) Follow original system design Ensure that the correct material for the jobarrives on site


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Area of Competence C: Plan Installation

Task C.1: Verify optimum array location


a) Review solar availability

b) Review cable runs and establishelectrical service interface

c) Review location of all equipment

Task C.2: Verify structural integrity and suitability of component locations


a) Verify structural integrity of structure For example: check condition of roofingmaterials

b) Identify suitable locations forsubsystem components

For example: inverters, control, batteries,and other balance-of-system components

c) Identify constraints and other optionsfor installation

Consider local/provincial/territorial coderequirements

Task C.3: Procure Balance-of-System (BOS) components


a) Create a bill of materials

b) Procure necessary materials


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Task C.4: Verify suitability of all material


a) Ensure all material is appropriate forlocation

Specify all material to be sun and weatherresistant

b) Inspect all provided systemcomponents for completeness and

damage

Follow system packaging to ensure allcomponents are included

Ensure all components are damage-freeprior to installation

Task C.5: Confirm that permits are in place


a) Observe permit package

b) Post permits as required


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Task C.6: Estimate time, materials, tools and labour required


a) Identify scheduling, equipment andlabour requirements

Follow job plan to determine amount oftime and labour hours required forinstallation

Follow job plan to determine materials and

tools required for installationIdentify how to move equipment to work-

site

b) Determine installation sequence tooptimize use of time and materials

Diagram possible layouts and locations forarray and equipment

Follow job plan to co-ordinate optimallabour and material use

c) Document process

For example: change orders, estimates,as-built drawings and quotations

Task C.7: Identify and mitigate installation challenges


a) Recognize, report and mitigatehazards and challenges in theworking environment


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Task C.8: Co-ordinate with other trades and stakeholders


a) Review installation plan withstakeholders

Identify sub-trades, customers, contractorsand others

b) Communicate information to othertrades and stakeholders

c) Document and make modifications toinstallation plan, if any


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Area of Competence D: Install Components

Task D.1: Array support structures


a) Secure anchor points Including foundations, rafters, roofstructures, flagpoles, ballasting and setting

of lag screwsb) Perform weather-proofing For example: flashing or sealing

c) Assemble support structure

d) Ensure structure is bonded to theground before placing modules

Task D.2: Assemble the array


a) Mount modules

b) Assemble hardware

c) Inspect the modules for damage

d) Test for ground faults

e) Wire modules

f) Mount and wire combiner boxes


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Task D.3: Install power conditioning equipment


a) Refer to plan

b) Install support structure

c) Attach equipment to structure

Task D.4 Install battery bank


a) Install rack

b) Install batteries

c) Install ventilationd) Install interconnecting wiring

Task D.5: Install Balance-of-System components


a) Refer to plan

b) Install support structure

c) Attach equipment to structure

d) Attach wiring


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Task D.6: Install monitoring package


a) Refer to plan

b) Install monitoring package

c) Connect to equipment

Task D.7: Program system


a) Follow manufacturers instructions

b) Program system as per plan

Task D.8: Remediate worksite


a) Restore site to original condition


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Task D.9: Install operation and identification tags/labels


a) Install tags/labels On items such as inverters, controls,disconnects and overcurrent devices,surge suppression and groundingequipment, junction boxes, batteries andenclosures, conduit and other electricalmaterials

b) Use identification markings Identify all required markings and labelsfor equipment


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Area of Competence E: Commission and Maintain Photovoltaic System

Task E.1: Verify overall system operation and functionality


a) Perform visual inspection Visually inspect installation components,identify and resolve any deficiencies in

materials or workmanshipb) Inspect mechanical installation

componentsInspect mechanical system installs for

weather sealing and structural integrity

c) Inspect electrical installationcomponents

Inspect electrical installs for polarity,integrity, proper wiring placement andgrounding of terminations

d) Commission system Activate system and verify functionality

and performance

e) Demonstrate procedures toowner/operator

Demonstrate procedures for connectingand disconnecting equipment

Identify and explain all safety issues

f) Demonstrate functionality andperformance

Verify and demonstrate completefunctionality and performance of system,including start-up and shut-down, normal

operation and emergency/bypassoperation modes

Verify program operation

g) Measure and document systemperformance

Measure performance and operatingparameters

Compare measurements withspecifications and expectations


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Assess operating condition of system andequipment/components

Complete documentation of systemperformance

h) Perform diagnostic procedures Perform diagnostic procedures andinterpret results

Task E.2: Troubleshoot


a) Identify problem(s) and safety issues Use knowledge of expected systemperformance

b) Develop plan to correct problem(s)


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Task E.3: Perform repairs or modifications


a) Perform all repairs or modificationsas identified

Evaluate level of repairs necessary torestore system to manufacturers oroperators specifications

Modify maintenance plan for systemowner/operator

Seek out services of a qualified electricianor registered apprentice as required

b) Demonstrate proficiency in usingtools and materials required formaintenance and troubleshooting

Task E.4: Initiate final inspection(s)


a) Seek out services of a qualifiedelectrician or registered apprentice asrequired


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Task E.5: Compile and transfer documentation, as required


a) Compile and transfer documentationpackage

b) Compile and maintain records Maintain records of performance, systemoperation, and maintenance


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Area of Competence F: Demonstrate Personal Competencies

Task F.1: Be professional


a) Follow code of conduct

b) Work safely Follow corporate safety rules and

regulationsFollow Occupational Health and Safety Act

c) Honour privacy

Task F.2: Communicate technical information


a) Interpret materials to install andmaintain photovoltaic system

For example, installation manuals, wiringdiagrams, technical drawings, schematicsand other specifications

b) Find applicable information inmanufacturers materials

Including installation manuals, wiringdiagrams, drawings and otherspecifications

c) Modify and mark-up originaldocumentation and drawing

Submit as-builts to supervisor, asrequired


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Task F.3: Be a self starter


a) Look for solutions to assigned tasks Utilize practical experience

b) Recognize problems and search forsolutions

Familiarize self with equipment

c) Recognize system shortcomings andsuggest improvements

Task F.4: Work independently


a) Choose best methods to completeassigned tasks

Be self-motivated

b) Respond to emergency calls Identify trouble and diagnose if furtherresources are required

c) Identify and repair faulty equipment Seek out assistance as required

d) Manage time Complete and utilize time managementtraining

Rely on past history and work experience


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Task F.5: Make decisions


a) Identify problems and issues

b) Brainstorm potential solutions

c) Analyze solutions

d) Choose most appropriate solution

e) Implement solution

Task F.6: Be a team player


a) Work constructively andcollaboratively with others

Communicate effectivelyUtilize good listening skills

Treat others with respect


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Task F.7: Demonstrate leadership


a) Accept challenges Use problem-solving skills

b) Show initiative

c) Exhibit confidence

d) Inspire and motivate

e) Initiate conflict resolution

Task F.8: Participate in continuous learning


a) Attend courses offered by equipmentmanufacturers and suppliers

Exhibit a willingness to learn about newequipment

b) Choose appropriate courses basedon job description

Recognize courses required for presentand future proficiency

c) Complete in-house training Recognize and participate in coursesapplicable to present and futureproficiency


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Task F.9: Be accountable


a) Take responsibility for your actions

Task F.10: Demonstrate confidence


a) Move ahead with decisions made Acquire correct documentation to supportdecisions

b) Recognize when to step back andconsult a peer before continuing


c) Have knowledge of subject matter Rely on work experience, training andknowledge from peers or supervisors

d) Recognize personal limits Rely on past history and work experience

Follow corporate safety rules

Follow Occupational Health and Safety Act


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Task F.11: Demonstrate organizational skills


a) Be familiar with project managementpractices

For example: Gantt charts, critical pathsand lists

b) Multi-task effectively

c) Demonstrate time-management skills


Task F.12: Train and mentor others


a) Train new workers Utilize good communication skills

b) Recognize when others are in need

of assistance

c) Demonstrate patience

d) Develop mentoring skills Demonstrate effective technical andmentoring skills with peers and trainees


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Task F.13: Communicate


a) Speak clearly Use effective interpersonal skills

Understand operational limitations of cellphones, two way radios, etc.

b) Speak at audience level Be aware of who you are speaking to

c) Be concise when speaking Practice effective interpersonal skills

d) Be assertive Follow through

e) Listen Listen and respond to audience response

f) Ask questions to ensureunderstanding

Utilize good listening and questioning skills

Listen and respond to audience response

g) Follow company policies andprocedures regarding cell phone use

For example, pull off to the side of theroad or use a hands-free set

Be aware of the information beingtransmitted over the telephone

h) Write clearly Be concise and to the point

i) Apply basic grammar skills

j) Write technical documents Follow companys format for technicalwriting

Task F.14: Demonstrate and maintain physical ability


a) Adhere to company standards


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General Knowledge and Skills

Basic electrical knowledge

Basic piping knowledge

Basic sheet metal knowledge

Basic solar knowledge

Climbing skills Time management skills

Basic rigging skills

Basic construction knowledge

Interpersonal skills

HVAC knowledge

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Future Trends and Concerns

Need for continued emphasis on quality of

workmanship

Dealing with an under-educated client relative to

photovoltaic technology

Rising energy prices will increase demand for

photovoltaic energy

Need for innovation to reduce costs

Need for financing options for customers

Need for defined career paths for photovoltaic

installation techs

Need for more educational opportunities for

photovoltaic installation techs

Need for photovoltaic installation licensing

Need for energy conservation and education

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11470 SP Photovoltaic Installer en 06web