Photovoltaic energy systems are not a new technology. However, in the last few years, many of these systems have been proposed, or are being considered, for placement over parking lots, parking garages, idle land, or maintenance facilities on transportation and airport authority properties.

By federal law, these systems may be required to be safety certified. Safety Certification of systems/sub-systems is required per the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Depending on an agency’s Safety Management Plan, a photovoltaic energy system would likely be required to undergo some level of safety certification. 

Photovoltaic energy systems represent a promising opportunity for transit and airport authorities to introduce a new revenue stream utilizing previously unused areas which are excellent for harvesting solar energy. However, these systems also bring different levels of safety risk that each agency should identify and attempt to mitigate to the lowest levels before installation to ensure their patrons’ and employees’ safety.

K&J Safety and Security Consulting Services, Inc. (K&J) has been a recognized industry leader in the safety certification implementation process throughout North America for rail, transit, and airport authorities for over 20 years, with specific experience in the safety certification of photovoltaic solar energy systems at large transit agencies such as the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). A photovoltaic energy system’s safety certification can be implemented as a standalone certification for an agency or incorporated into an existing safety certification program.

Please contact Jim Tucci at K&J (850-968-0901 – jtucci@kjsafety.com) to discuss these services and the numerous other capabilities that K&J can provide.  

ARE YOUR PATRONS AND EMPLOYEES SAFE?