A solar panel installation project in Nigeria took an unexpected and dramatic turn when an installer fell through a client’s roof and landed in a toilet. The incident, captured on video and shared widely on social media, has drawn significant attention and sparked discussions about the safety practices in the solar installation industry.

The mishap occurred when the installer’s apprentice reportedly stepped on a weak section of the roof. Instead of bearing weight on the designated wooden supports for the asbestos sheets, the apprentice’s foot landed directly on the center of a slate. This unsupported area was unable to withstand the pressure, leading to an immediate collapse.

The structural failure sent the apprentice plummeting through the roof and directly into the apartment’s toilet below. While the fall was startling and caused significant damage to the roof, fortunately, no serious injuries were reported in the incident.

Following the accident, the apprentice is said to have accepted responsibility for the damage caused. He reportedly agreed to purchase a new roofing sheet to replace the broken one, ensuring the client’s property was repaired.

This incident has highlighted the inherent risks faced by solar installers, particularly in regions where roof structures may not always be robust enough to support the weight of personnel and equipment. Many Nigerian solar professionals have commented on the video, emphasizing the critical need for comprehensive training and careful navigation when working at heights.

Furthermore, the installation method itself has raised concerns. The video appears to show solar panels being mounted directly onto the roof without the use of racks. Industry experts caution that this approach can impede airflow, potentially leading to excessive heat buildup that could damage both the roof and the solar panels over time, compromising their longevity and efficiency.

Read Original

Keywords: solar installation accident, roof collapse, installer falls into toilet, solar panel safety, apprentice roof damage, Nigerian solar installers, roof installation risks, heat buildup solar panels