SHI Risk Assessment & Mitigation 3

Question 1

Before mounting solar collectors on a residential roof, which structural risk assessment step is MOST critical?

Accepted Answer

Verifying roof framing can support added dead load of panels plus snow/wind

Answer

Solar collectors add significant dead load, and roof framing must be assessed to ensure it can support panels plus applicable snow and wind loads without failure.

Question 2

An installer is working on a steep-pitch roof without guardrails. Under OSHA 1926.502, what fall protection measure is required when working at or above 6 feet?

Accepted Answer

Personal fall arrest system, safety net, or guardrail system

Answer

OSHA 1926.502 mandates that workers on roofs 6 feet or more above a lower level must be protected by guardrails, safety nets, or a personal fall arrest system.

Question 3

When running AC wiring from a solar thermal pump controller on a ladder, what electrical risk is specifically associated with aluminum ladders?

Accepted Answer

Aluminum conducts electricity, increasing electrocution risk if the ladder contacts a live wire

Answer

Aluminum ladders are electrically conductive; contact with live wiring can complete a circuit through the installer, causing electrocution.

Question 4

What is the risk of not installing a check valve on the collector supply line of a thermosiphon or pump-driven solar system?

Accepted Answer

Reverse thermosiphoning at night, cooling the storage tank

Answer

Without a check valve, cooled fluid in the collectors can thermosiphon backward at night, drawing heat out of the storage tank and wasting stored energy.

Question 5

A solar thermal installer suspects roof decking is deteriorating under existing shingles. What is the BEST risk-mitigation step before penetrating the roof for collector mounting?

Accepted Answer

Probe suspect areas and consult a structural engineer or roofer before mounting

Answer

Mounting on compromised decking risks fastener pull-out under collector load or wind uplift; a qualified evaluation must occur before any penetrations are made.

(SHI) Solar Heating Installer Certification Practice Test

(SHI) Solar Heating Installer Certification Practice Test

SHI Risk Assessment & Mitigation 3