AUC 351 PHOTOVOLTAIC ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Question 0

The IC should delay _______ until there is confirmation that the PV system has been shut down

Answer 0

Overhaul

Question 1

Procedures for dealing with photovoltaic electrical systems

Answer 1

• Firefighters must avoid walking on PV modules since this can expose them to electrical shock
• Firefighter must NEVER CUT any wires associated with the PV array. If feasible, tactical operations should be performed away from all PV components
• Shutting off power at the main electrical panel does not ensure that all power to the building has been removed. This holds true for opening PV disconnect (isolation) switches which can be located either on the roof next to the main electrical panel, adjacent to the inverter, nearby the charge controller, in the battery bank area, and outside the building
• When exposed to sunlight, PV arrays will continue to generate electricity and energize conduit and components up to the inverter
• The use of rooftop disconnects should not be relied upon since they are mainly installed in order to perform maintenance on the system
• Shut-off electrical power to the inverter to ensure power does not enter the building from the PV array conduit, batteries, or backup generator. Be aware that inverters do have capacitors which store energy

Question 2

Using water on ENERGIZED PV system components is a decision that should only be made by a

Answer 2

IC after careful size up

Question 3

If decided upon to use water as an extinguishing agent, Engine company officers should position hose lines to

Answer 3

Cut off fire extension and push the fire back toward the main fire area

Question 4

Hose streams should not be applied

Answer 4

Directly onto energized PV system components

Question 5

A fog nozzle utilized from a distance and set at a ____ degree or greater spray pattern is recommended to prevent electrical current from traveling upstream towards members operating hose lines

Answer 5

30 degree

Question 6

Straight streams or foam should

Answer 6

NOT be used since they are excellent conductors

Question 7

Photo-voltaic electrical systems will generally be installed on buildings that have sloped roofs on what sides

Answer 7

South and West facing sides

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