Safety and HSE compliance: a key issue on a 4-hectare solar site
Our customer in the energy sector has recently launched the construction of a photovoltaic plant covering almost 4 hectares in Brittany. It was against this backdrop that Valérie, an agap2 consultant, joined the project as QHSE Supervisor.
4 hectares to supply 2,570 people with green energy
The aim of this project is to bring a ground-based solar power plant into service on a redeveloped former quarry. Once in operation, it will produce around 4.1 GWh per year, equivalent to the annual consumption of 2,570 people. Technically, this represents 5,954 solar panels installed on 229 tables (structures grouping together several panels), covering an area of 37,590 m².
A presence on the ground for controlled safety
Valérie: ”On this site, I am the only permanent representative of the project owner. My main role is to ensure compliance with HSE (Health, Safety and Environment) rules throughout the works, right up to handover of the lots concerned.
On a day-to-day basis, I’m out in the field, constantly monitoring safety levels, in particular making sure that the right PPE is being worn, that safety instructions are being followed and that the customer’s HSE requirements are being applied. I also participate in high-risk operations, and we can use the Stop Card tool to stop any dangerous activity if necessary to discuss it with the teams, define corrective actions and then restart the activity once the safety conditions have been met.
I’m also in charge of leading the daily 15-minute safety meetings with the subcontractors, updating the QHSE notice boards and collecting all the regulatory documentation for the site. I check that everything is up to date and compliant, for every worker and every machine used on the site. At the same time, I make sure that the planned operations are properly covered by the safety documents (PGC (general coordination plan), PPSPS (specific health and safety protection plan)) and that they comply with the environmental requirements of the project.”
Giving meaning to the project through human interaction
Valérie: “What I'll be remembering for the moment is the richness of the interaction with the various participants. The human link, the fact of discussing THEIR safety and their working conditions is what gives meaning to my assignment.
And on a more personal level, this project has enabled me to repeat my initial experience as a QHSE supervisor in a different business sector, while exploring new environmental skills. The fact that it’s in Brittany, a region I really like, is a big plus!”
