⚠️ The Real Cost of Unsafe Solar Installs: Why Installer Safety Can’t Be Ignored

Kristy Micallef
Apr 18
2 min read

When it comes to rooftop solar installation, safety isn't optional—it's the law. Yet, across Australia, solar installers are regularly injured due to outdated and unsafe practices, like carrying solar panels up ladders.

Not only is this non-compliant with SafeWork regulations, but it also leads to serious injury, compensation claims, fines, and even fatalities.

🚧 Real Incidents That Should Be a Wake-Up Call

1. Worker Falls Nearly 6 Meters from a Ladder While Carrying a Panel

A Queensland solar installer suffered serious injuries after falling almost 6 meters while climbing an unsecured ladder with a solar panel. The employer failed to provide a safe method of access. → Full case report and $55,000 fine

2. Fatal Fall in Victoria During Solar Installation

A 21-year-old worker died after falling from a ladder while installing panels on a single-storey home. The tragedy sparked a Safe Work alert and reinforced the need for compliant working-at-height systems. → Read the alert from WorkSafe Victoria

3. $40,000 Fine After Worker Falls from Gutter-Scaffold Setup

Another Queensland company was fined $40,000 when a worker fell from a makeshift ladder setup—underscoring that even small risks carry big consequences. → See the fine here

💸 What Unsafe Practices Really Cost

Workers’ Compensation Claims: Ladder-related falls cost Australian businesses thousands annually in medical bills, lost wages, and insurance premiums.
→ Learn more about common compensation claims
Fines & Penalties for Non-Compliance: SafeWork regulators don't take chances with height safety. One solar company was fined $500,000 for ongoing breaches, including unsafe panel lifting. → Read the Master Electricians article

🛠️ The Solution: Smart Tools That Keep Installers Safe

Lifting panels manually isn’t just outdated—it’s a risk to your crew and your business.

That’s exactly why we created the Solar Coaster:

✅ Compliant with Safe Work lifting & access guidelines

✅ Designed to reduce strain, risk, and time

✅ Easy to use, even on windy days

✅ Helps you avoid costly workers comp and fines

It’s time to get it up — safely. Give your crew the tool that makes safe installs faster, easier, and legally compliant.