Workplace measurements in the production of photovoltaic systems

Photovoltaic systems are manufactured in a production facility in the canton of Bern. The soldering processes take place in a closed machine whose exhaust air is directly extracted, filtered and released into the outside air. However, the machine has to be opened about five times a day for around 15 minutes for maintenance work. The employees carrying out this maintenance work are exposed to emissions from the chemicals used in the machine (fluxes and solvents). Due to the strong odor, it was suspected that there could be a health hazard. Ecosens AG was therefore commissioned to investigate the air pollution during the maintenance work. In order to determine the actual exposure, personal measurements of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde and particulate matter (fine dust) were carried out. The results showed that the maximum workplace concentrations (MAK values) of Suva are undercut by at least a factor of ten during maintenance work. A health hazard for employees could therefore be ruled out. Based on the test results, recommendations for further minimizing odour emissions were also derived.