This Solar Panel Cleaning SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to clean roof-mounted solar panels safely on homes and commercial buildings, using a water-fed pole from the ground wherever possible, or from the roof or an EWP when needed. It covers inspecting the array for damage, shutting the system down, fall prevention, overhead power lines, hot glass, safe cleaning methods and stopping when an electrical fault is found. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
 
Who it's for
Solar panel cleaning businesses
Window and exterior cleaning contractors
Property and facility maintenance teams
Solar installers offering maintenance services
Commercial cleaning contractors
 
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
 
What this SOP covers
Falls from roof edges, ladders or an EWP
Falling through fragile roofing, skylights or roof penetrations
Slips on wet panel glass, roofing, moss or cleaning residue
Electric shock from damaged panels or cabling, made worse by water
Poles, ladders or spray near overhead power lines
Burns from hot panel glass, frames and metal roofing
Cracking glass through cold water, pressure washing or standing on panels
Heat stress, sunburn and strain from extended pole work
Cleaning chemicals, bird droppings and nesting material
Tools, equipment or water falling onto people below
 
What's included
11 pre-operational checks, from training and the ground-first plan to power lines, array inspection, fall prevention, weather and timing
A 13-step operating procedure covering shutdown, pole work, roof access, hot glass checks, safe cleaning products and keeping water off electrical parts
Isolation and energy control explaining that panels and cabling stay live in daylight even after the system is shut down
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for falls, harness suspension, electric shock, damaged panels and storms
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
 
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
 
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
 
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Cleaning SOP Bundle and Ultimate Electrical, HVAC & Solar SOP Bundle. Each bundle is $197, which works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
 
Common questions
Does it cover repairs or bird proofing?
No. Work on the PV electrical system, and repairing, removing or bird proofing panels, must be done by a licensed electrician or accredited installer.
Can we use a pressure washer?
No. The SOP rules out pressure washers, abrasive pads, scrapers, metal tools and solvents. Workers use a soft brush and low-pressure water with deionised water or a mild, non-abrasive cleaner.
Do we need a SWMS?
If the cleaning work meets the definition of high risk construction work, you'll need a SWMS as well as this SOP. Cleaning from the ground with a water-fed pole is preferred wherever the panels can be reached that way.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.