Some Solar Panel Modules can be hazardous to your health if they catch on fire.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INHALATION HAZARD
Hazardous materials used in the semi-conductor industry, such as silicon, boron, phosphorus, cadmium, tellurium, arsenic, and gallium, are used in the construction of PV (Solar Panel) modules and components.
In PV modules these materials are sealed between the top layer of glass and the plastic backing of the module, and then are encased in an aluminum frame.
When the PV system is operating under normal conditions, these chemicals do not constitute a hazard. However, during a fire involving PV modules or components, or the adjacent areas around the modules or components, the aluminum frame can become deformed or melt, exposing the hazardous chemicals to direct flame and/or significant heat.
The exposure to flame and heat will cause the materials to dissipate in the smoke plume, constituting an inhalation hazard to Firefighters without breathing apparatus, as well as people standing near the fire building and in the path of the plume.
The inhalation hazard from these chemicals can be mitigated for Firefighters by ensuring the constant use of breathing apparatus and all PPE during fire attack and overhaul operations.
All chemicals listed above are considered toxic under fire conditions; some have a significant increased cancer risk with exposure.
For additional information about the dangers, from the San Francisco Dire Department go to: http://www.ufsw.org/pdfs/photovoltaic_systems.pdf
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