On Thursday, October 23, Peter Matthews presented Solar Safety & Maintenance: Protecting People, Property and Productivity at the WHS Show 2025. His session addressed a growing issue many workplaces overlook, the hidden safety risks sitting above their roofs.

Australia has over 4 million solar systems, producing 25.5 GW of power. Many of those are on commercial and industrial rooftops — schools, factories, warehouses, and retail centres. Each one is a live electrical plant generating energy every day. When they’re ignored, it’s not just an electrical hazard; it’s a workplace safety failure.

Why WHS Professionals Should Care

Solar and battery systems are now part of workplace electrical infrastructure. They introduce uncontrolled DC voltage, potential arc flash risks, and chemical hazards from lithium-ion batteries. Yet, many systems are still missing from risk registers, plant registers, and emergency response plans.

When a fault occurs — an isolator fire, damaged cable, or overheating battery — it quickly becomes a WHS issue. Failing to include solar in safety systems exposes businesses to injury risk, operational downtime, and compliance penalties.

5 WHS Actions to Take Today

1. Add all solar and battery systems to the organisation’s Plant Register.
2. Include DC electrical and chemical hazards in the Risk Register.
3. Review the Emergency Response Plan to address solar and battery-related incidents.
4. Engage qualified solar electricians to carry out scheduled maintenance.
5. Ensure staff and first responders receive solar and battery safety awareness training.

These actions form the foundation of due diligence for any organisation that owns or manages solar systems.

The Cost of Inaction

Neglected systems don’t just pose a safety threat. They lose up to 30% of performance and may void insurance or warranties. Insurers are now requesting proof of maintenance records before renewal. A lack of oversight costs more than productivity — it puts people and property at risk.

From Installation to Stewardship

At Omnidian, we help businesses move from installation to stewardship. Our team conducts detailed inspections, safety audits, and maintenance programs to ensure your solar assets remain safe, efficient, and compliant.

Because solar safety isn’t just about compliance, it’s about care.
Protect your people, property, and productivity with a professional solar safety inspection.

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