[RE-wrenches] "Quick Release" PV System

[Joel Davidson]

Quick-release started with the Los Angeles Fire Department. The PV industry 
rejected quick-release as impractical, costly, an invitation for theft, 
etc., but it won't go away. For lots of background info on fire safety 
requirements, see http://osfm.fire.ca.gov/training/photovoltaics.php


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Brian White" <brianw at eagleroofing.com>
To: "RE-wrenches" <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>
Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 11:18 AM
Subject: [RE-wrenches] "Quick Release" PV System


"Quick Release" PV System

I just had a set of plans rejected by the City of Chula Vista, CA, because 
the integrated Tile product that we use did not have a "Quick Release" 
System for the array, so that the Fire Department could remove the array in 
the event of a fire.

Has anyone ever heard of such a requirement? If so, how did you meet this 
requirement, with any style of PV array (BIPV, Standard Modules, peel & 
stick) and still achieve an 85 - 100 mph wind rating? Is it just me, or is 
this city from a different planet.

This issue did not show up on the initial Plan Correction check list from 
the city, but they are calling it out now when we re-submitted. My 
electrician asked them to explain it to me over the phone, because he did 
not think anyone would believe him when he asked for this requirement. I 
have asked for a document or anything that defines this requirement, and 
will share what I find out.

Brian C. White
Sr. Design Engineer - PV Systems

Eagle Roofing Products
120 North Auburn Street - Suite 212
Grass Valley, CA  95945
Phone: 530-273-2948
Cell: 530-575-5550



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