As the United States pledges to obtain 20 percent of its energy from renewable sources (in particular, solar) by 2030, the number of employees installing and maintaining such systems will almost certainly increase.  The risks of workplace injuries and fatalities to employees in solar, wind, geo-thermal, and other industries will likely increase also as less experienced workers fill the need for so-called “green jobs.”  OSHA has already taken notice and offers a number of resources to help employers mitigate against hazards to renewable energy workers.

Regarding solar, OSHA notes:

Solar energy employers (connecting to grid) are covered by the Electric power generation, transmission, and distribution standards and therefore may be required to implement the safe work practices and worker training requirements of OSHA’s Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution Standard, 29 CFR 1910.269.

Many other OSHA standards cover solar energy employers as well such as requirements pertaining to fall protection and lockout/tag out procedures.