Syntara Sustainable Energy: Our Commitment to RC62 Fire Risk Management

The safety and security of your commercial property is our highest priority. The following step by step guide details our commitment to fire safety and our comprehensive approach to application of the RC62 Joint Code of Practice for fire safety in photovoltaic (PV) panel installations.

What is RC62?

RC62 is the Joint Code of Practice for fire safety in commercial rooftop-mounted solar PV systems. Developed by the Fire Protection Association (FPA), RISCAuthority, the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), and Solar Energy UK, it provides a practical guide for insurers and their clients on the requirements for the procurement, ownership, operation, and maintenance of safe and efficient PV systems. The UK's insurance industry endorses and recommends the use of RC62 as the definitive guide to fire risk prevention in UK solar systems.

While the incidence of fires involving PV systems is extremely low, an incorrectly designed, installed, or maintained system can increase the overall risk of fire. Adherence to RC62 is therefore essential for ensuring the long-term safety and insurability of your solar installation.

Syntara’s Commitment to Fire Safety: The Four Pillars of RC62 Compliance

Syntara Sustainable Energy has built its operational framework around the core principles of RC62. Our approach to fire safety is founded on four key pillars:

Our RC62 Compliant Process: A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Peace of Mind

Syntara’s process is designed to ensure full RC62 compliance at every stage of your project:

1. 1.
   Detailed Consultation & Site SurveyWe begin by understanding your needs and conducting a detailed site survey. Following initial high level discussion and proposals, we will begin the detailed site assessments. We assess your roof structure, existing electrical systems, and discuss your insurance requirements.
2. 2.
   Fire Risk AssessmentWe will carry out a comprehensive fire risk assessment, identifying potential hazards and defining the necessary mitigation measures.
3. 3.
   System DesignOur experienced team creates a bespoke PV system design that adheres to all relevant standards, including BS 7671, and incorporates the findings of the fire risk assessment. We consider factors such as roof loading, wind loading, and safe access for maintenance and emergency services.
4. 4.
   Component SelectionWe select PV panels, inverters, and other components that have a low propensity for fire spread, have rapid shutdown technology built in as standard, and are certified to the highest UK and international standards (e.g., UL 1703, BS EN 61730-2).
5. 5.
   InstallationOur MCS-accredited installers carry out the installation with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring all connections are secure and all wiring is correctly installed and protected. We strictly control our work environment, prohibiting hot work where possible and ensuring the site is left clean and tidy.
6. 6.
   Commissioning & HandoverUpon completion, we conduct a thorough commissioning process, including insulation resistance testing and a full system inspection. We provide you with a comprehensive handover pack, including all documentation, and explain the operation of the system and its safety features.
7. 7.
   Ongoing Maintenance & MonitoringWe establish a regular maintenance schedule to ensure the continued safety and performance of your system. This includes periodic inspections, cleaning, and testing of safety features such as DC isolation switches.

Key Fire Mitigation Measures We Implement

Syntara employs a range of advanced technologies and best practices to mitigate fire risk, including:

• Optimised Inverters with Rapid ShutdownWe use equipment with rapid shutdown capabilities, which can de-energize the DC cables on the roof to a touch-safe voltage level in the event of an emergency, significantly enhancing firefighter safety.
• Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)Our inverters are equipped with AFCIs, which are designed to detect and extinguish electrical arcs, a potential cause of fire in PV systems.
• DC DisconnectorsWe install clearly labelled DC isolation switches in accessible locations, allowing for the safe disconnection of the DC side of the system for maintenance or in an emergency.
• High-Quality Cabling and ConnectorsWe use only high-quality, correctly-sized cables and ensure that all DC connectors are from the same manufacturer and are correctly mated to prevent water ingress and the risk of faults.
• Fire-Resistant Roof CoveringsWhere necessary, we will recommend and install fire-resistant coverings on combustible or partly-combustible roofs to prevent fire spread.
• Clear Access RoutesWe design our installations to provide clear and safe access routes for maintenance personnel and firefighters.

Your Partner in a Safe and Sustainable Future

By choosing Syntara Sustainable Energy, you are not only investing in a cleaner, more sustainable future for your business, but you are also partnering with a company that places your safety and peace of mind at the forefront of everything we do. Our comprehensive approach to RC62 fire risk management ensures that your solar PV system is designed, installed, and maintained to the highest safety standards, giving you the confidence to embrace the benefits of renewable energy.