Solar panels
Getting your job done safely
This sponsored content is provided by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and any links will take you to their website.
Every year people die after falling when working at height and many more suffer life changing injuries. If you or your contractors are working at height, then you need to take care to ensure people don’t fall off, fall through or drop something onto someone below.
Scaffolding
When working on a roof, scaffolding is usually required. Scaffolding with a handrail, mid rail and toe boards will help protect you from falling and those below from being hit by falling objects – don’t forget the gable end.
Ladders
If they have to be used, ensure ladders and stepladders are in good condition, the right type for the work and are not going to move when being used.
Electricity
Electrical installation and connections work must be carried out by a qualified electrician. Check any overhead cables entering the building, electricity supply cables are generally uninsulated.
Planning even simple jobs can save time, effort and often money. A basic safety plan can also help you and your builder think about the safety and health issues that can arise during the work.
You can find more information and an example plan1 from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has produced a free CDM Wizard2 app which is simple and quick to use.
If you are a landlord, property developer or other commercial client, there are things you must do to ensure the work is carried out safely3.
Useful links
Simple steps to help you and your builder work safely, from the Health and Safety Executive:
- Solar panel installation – What you need to know to work safely4
- Fragile roofs – What you need to know as a busy builder, contractor or maintenance worker5
- Safe use of ladders and stepladders6
- Running a small construction site – What you need to know as a busy builder7
Find a Trade Professional
Use our partner directories to find a planning or building professional to help with your project or development.
Find a professional (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/planning/planning-applications/find-a-trade-professional)
Find a professionalUseful links
Make an application (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/app/applications)
Make an applicationStudio Charrette planning consultancy calculator (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/home-improvement/planning-consultancy-calculator)
Studio Charrette planning consultancy calculatorSell your site with Land Match (https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/commercial-developments/sell-your-site)
Sell your site with Land Match- http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/cis80.pdf
- https://www.citb.co.uk/about-citb/partnerships-and-initiatives/construction-design-and-management-cdm-regulations/about-cdm/
- http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg411.pdf
- https://www.citb.co.uk/documents/csk-gs001-solar-infomaster.pdf
- http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/cis68.pdf
- https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-at-height/using-ladders-safely.htm
- http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/cis63.pdf