Fire Protection Research Foundation report: "Commercial Roof-Mounted Photovoltaic System Installation Best Practices Review and All Hazard Assessment" (PDF, 1 MB)
Authors: Rosalie Wills, James Milke, Sara Royle and Kristin Steranka, Department of Fire Protection Engineering, University of Maryland
Date of issue: February 2014
Introduction
The purpose of this literature review is to compile information on a wide variety of hazards and damage potential created by the installation of photovoltaic (PV) systems on commercial roof structures. The hazards addressed are: structural loading; wind loads; hail; snow; debris accumulation; seismic; fire (panel flammability, impact on roof fire ratings); and electrical hazards affecting fire fighting operations.