The renewable energy sector—especially wind and solar—presents unique safety challenges. Technicians often work at great heights, handle high-voltage equipment, and face unpredictable weather conditions. While the industry has made great strides in safety, common mistakes still lead to injuries, equipment damage, and costly downtime.
In this article, we’ll explore five of the most common safety mistakes made by renewable energy technicians, real-world examples of accidents, and how proper training—such as that offered by STL USA—can prevent these hazards.
1. Inadequate Fall Protection and High-Risk Climbing Practices
The Mistake:
One of the leading causes of workplace fatalities in wind energy is fall-related incidents. Many technicians fail to properly secure their harnesses, use outdated equipment, or take unnecessary risks when climbing turbine towers.
Real-World Example:
In 2022, a wind turbine technician in Texas suffered a fatal fall due to a worn-out safety harness that failed mid-climb. Investigators found that the technician had not undergone recent fall protection training and was unaware of the harness’s expiration date.
How to Avoid It:
Always perform pre-use safety checks on harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points.
Never rush or skip safety steps when climbing.
Take GWO-certified Working at Heights training with STL USA to master best practices for high-altitude work.
2. Improper Electrical Safety Precautions
The Mistake:
Many solar and wind technicians underestimate arc flash hazards and fail to follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures when working on electrical systems.
Real-World Example:
A solar farm in Arizona experienced a severe accident when a technician bypassed LOTO procedures while servicing an inverter. The unexpected surge resulted in an arc flash explosion, causing third-degree burns and severe downtime for the facility.
How to Avoid It:
Follow strict LOTO procedures before working on any electrical component.
Wear appropriate arc-rated PPE to reduce injury risk.
Get hands-on electrical safety training through STL USA’s OSHA-aligned programs.
3. Neglecting Proper PPE Usage
The Mistake:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) saves lives, yet some technicians fail to wear the right gear for the job. Common errors include using expired helmets, skipping safety gloves, or not wearing proper eye protection.
Real-World Example:
At a wind farm in Iowa, a worker lost vision in one eye after being struck by debris from a damaged turbine blade. Investigators discovered he was not wearing safety goggles, despite working in a high-risk maintenance area.
How to Avoid It:
Conduct daily PPE checks before beginning work.
Replace outdated or damaged safety gear.
Undergo ANSI-approved PPE training with STL USA to stay up to date on best practices.
4. Underestimating Weather-Related Hazards
The Mistake:
Technicians often work in extreme environments, from icy turbine towers to scorching solar fields. Failing to account for weather conditions can lead to slips, heat exhaustion, or even electrocution.
Real-World Example:
In 2021, two wind turbine technicians in North Dakota were injured after working on a tower during high winds. A sudden gust caused an unsecured panel to detach, striking both workers and resulting in serious injuries.
How to Avoid It:
Always check weather conditions before ascending turbines or working on solar arrays.
Use extreme caution when working in rain, ice, or high winds.
Let STL USA build a training program specific to your facility to be able to recognize and mitigate weather-related risks.
5. Poor Emergency Preparedness and First Aid Knowledge
The Mistake:
In high-risk environments, every second counts. Yet, many technicians lack proper first aid training or fail to react correctly in emergency situations.
Real-World Example:
At a solar farm in California, a technician suffered a cardiac arrest while working in an isolated area. His co-workers, unfamiliar with CPR or AED usage, lost valuable minutes waiting for paramedics. Unfortunately, the technician did not survive.
How to Avoid It:
Ensure all team members complete GWO First Aid Training.
Equip work sites with proper emergency response tools, including AEDs.
Conduct regular emergency drills to improve response times and coordination.
How STL USA Reduces Safety Risks
At STL USA, we understand that proper training saves lives and prevents costly accidents. Our safety courses are designed to give renewable energy technicians the hands-on skills they need to stay safe, work smart, and remain compliant with OSHA, ANSI, and GWO regulations.
What We Offer:
✅ GWO Working at Heights & Advanced Rescue Training – Master safe climbing and emergency evacuation techniques.
✅ OSHA Electrical Safety & LOTO Certification – Learn to prevent arc flashes and electrical accidents.
✅ ANSI-Approved PPE & Fall Protection Training – Ensure proper use and maintenance of critical safety gear.
✅ Emergency Response & First Aid Courses – Be prepared for medical emergencies on-site.
Stay Safe – Book Your Training Today!
Safety isn’t just a requirement—it’s a responsibility. By investing in high-quality training with STL USA, renewable energy companies can protect their workforce, improve efficiency, and maintain compliance.
📞 Call us at (512) 661 2570
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automatic braking system for controlled descent and boasts high load capacity, making it suitable for multiple descents.
scenarios.
Developed together with professionals from the wind industry, the design of the 1138 ANSI certified harness distributes weight evenly throughout the body which gives the user an ergonomic harness for working at heights.
high weight capacity of 140kg. Its innovative design minimizes impact forces in the event of a fall, making it an excellent choice for workers operating in wind energy and industrial sectors.
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Call us: +1 (512) 661 2570