more thoughts on Fire department questions [RE-wrenches]

[Joel Davidson]

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Hello Graham,

By general definition, a direct or integral mounted PV array can be mounted
either in full contact with the roof or can be the actual roof. A stand-off
mount is a structure and roof fastening system for mounting the PV array
above and parallel to the roof surface. A rack mount is a structural frame
and roof fastening system used to mount the PV array above and at an angle
to the roof surface.

The Uniform Building Code (UBC) Occupancy Group, Constuction Type, Roof
Class and the solar array mounting method determine the acceptable solar
module fire rating. Standard solar modules that have a glass front and
plastic back sheet usually have a Class C fire rating. Some solar modules
have a glass front and glass back and may have a Class A fire rating. Some
solar modules and roof assemblies may have a combined Class A fire rating.

A PV array and other equipment (HVAC, etc.) on a stand-off or rack mount
are roof-mounted equipment and not the roof itself. The UBC allows solar
modules with Class C fire ratings on stand-off and rack roof mounted PV
arrays.

Best regards,
Joel Davidson



Original Message:
-----------------
From: Graham Owen graham at solarexpert.com
Date: Sun, 18 Apr 2004 14:20:09 -0700
To: RE-wrenches at topica.com
Subject: RE: more thoughts on Fire department questions [RE-wrenches]

Hi Jerry,

Good questions, thanks.  I don’t think roof penetrations properly sealed
should impact roof fire ratings.  Most HVAC, air handling, electrical,
etc, equipment I see on roof-tops are all metal and non-flammable which
makes me wonder if metal flashings are better for high fire risk
locations as opposed to Oatey style flashings with rubber boots which
are often used for mounting PV arrays?

For a couple of decades high fire risk areas of LA County mandate metal
solar pool heating panels and disallow plastic panels. Even though
plastic panels are typically flush mounted which presents a lower
possibility of burning embers getting underneath, while metal panels are
often elevated several inches off the roof on standoffs.  

Perhaps as the decades slip by, class A roofs would do better in the
event of a loose connection arcing on the roof.

BTW
 fire and rescue personnel use a hand-held device called a
“hot-stick” to determine if wires and/or components are electrically
energized, but they will not detect DC voltages.

Graham


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