SMB Solar Multiboard Technical manual

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Instructions for the Use of SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS on
Photovoltaic Arrays with Framed Modules
1. General introduction
Solar panel manufacturers stipulate that you must not walk or place concentrated loads
on photovoltaic modules as incorrectly distributed weight may result in the formation
of micro cracks in the solar cells. The damage ranges from a small loss of performance
to the complete failure of individual modules.
However, there is an increasing amount of work on photovoltaic arrays, such as
servicing, repairs or cleaning, that requires you to walk or place weight on the
modules.
The SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD is a lightweight, mobile, non-slip working
platform that enables you to work on framed photovoltaic modules without damaging
them.
SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS may be installed on the solar panels only for the
duration of the works and must be removed after the job has been completed.
2. Safety regulations
When using the SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS you must comply with the general
safety regulations for working on PV arrays and for working on scaffolding. The use
of SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS does not exempt you from observing the following
safety regulations:
BGI 515 Personal protective equipment
BGI 656 Safety when working on roofs
BGI 659 Safety when cleaning buildings
BGI 663 Handling of work and protective scaffolding
Accident prevention regulations for winches, lifting and towing equipment
Accident prevention regulations for first aid

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3. Das SMB SOLAR-MULTIBOARD
Figure 1: General view of the SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD
The non-slip surface must be kept clean at all times to maintain its non-slip properties.
The contact surface must also be kept clean at all times to prevent dirt particles from
damaging the glass surface of the PV modules when a service technician steps onto
the board. The entire contact surface must rest flat on the glass surface and the frame
of the PV module.
The handle end must always be positioned facing downwards in the direction of slope,
i.e. towards the lower edge of the solar panel. The board has an integrated handle for
ease of use. The clip end must always face upwards against the direction of slope, i.e.
towards the upper edge of the solar panel, and be pushed into position (figure 1 & 2).
Make sure that the two clips on the clip end are carefully inserted in the existing gap
between the framed PV modules (figure 2)
Figure 2: Detailed view of clips
Non-slip surface
Contact surface
Handle end
Clip end

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The SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD may only be placed on the glass surface and frame
of the PV modules as described above. Damaged or dirty SMB SOLAR
MULTIBOARDS must not be used.
4. Use of SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS on framed PV modules
The entire surface of the SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD must rest flat on the glass
surface and the upper and lower frame of the PV modules to ensure that weight is
distributed evenly and supported by the module frame and the substructure. The
boards must be laid in an offset pattern in the line of slope (see figure 3).
Figure 3: Correct alignment of SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS
The SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS must not be laid across the mounting brackets of
the modules. Please also ensure that the boards are not placed near the edge of the
framed PV modules (see figure below).
Figure 4: Incorrect alignment of SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS

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The size of the SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD must match the size of the PV module.
Size of PV module
PV modules laid
vertically
PV modules laid
horizontally
Correct SMB SOLAR
MULTIBOARD
1,660 mm x 990 mm
1660 mm
1720 mm
1,660 mm x 990 mm
990 mm
1020 mm
1,580 mm x 808 mm
1580 mm
1620 mm
1,580 mm x 808 mm
808 mm
900 mm
SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS must not be subjected to sudden impacts (no jumping
or skipping). Tools, cleaning equipment, etc. on the glass surface of the modules or on
the boards must not cause an obstruction to the service technician and must be secured
against falling. You are advised to wear knee pads to prevent injury to your knees.

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When walking on the SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS you must stay within the area
between the upper and lower frame of each PV module (figure 5). If an SMB SOLAR
MULTIBOARD extends onto the next module below you must not place weight on
this section (figure 6).
Figure 5: Correct position on SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD
Do not walk on this section!
Figure 6: Incorrect position on SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD

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In order to work across a wider area of the PV array we recommend the use of five
SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS. The first SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD should be
placed on the lowest row of modules as described in point 3. Step on the SMB
SOLAR MULTIBOARD and fit the second SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD offset to
One side.
Figure 7: Installation of SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD
Step onto the second SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD and position the next SMB
SOLAR MULTIBOARDS as described above.
Figure 8: Inserting the SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD

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5. Limitation of liability
We will accept no responsibility for damage to PV modules of any kind.
Before using SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS users must make sure that the PV
modules have been installed correctly. In particular, users must ensure that the
mounting brackets connecting the PV modules to the substructure have been securely
fastened so that modules cannot slip out of position. The maximum load of the PV
modules must not be exceeded.
6. General information
SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS must be kept clean at all times. Each board must be
inspected to ensure that it is in proper working order before being used on framed PV
modules. This includes an inspection of the clip retainers and the backing layer and a
general check for distortion of the board.
When cleaning PV arrays do not direct the jet of the high-pressure washer at the
backing layer on the contact surface as this may damage it. When storing the SMB
SOLAR MULTIBOARDS please ensure that the backing layers or the non-slip
surfaces of two SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS are always stacked on top of each
other to prevent damage to the SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARDS.
Service and repairs may only be carried out by the manufacturer:
SMB SOLAR MULTIBOARD
Oberstr. 7
52388 Nörvenich
www.solar-multiboard.de