School solar installations to undergo annual safety inspections

[Financial News] Arrangements will be made for schools participating in the Haetbit Ieum School program to undergo annual safety inspections of their solar installations. Thermal imaging measurements, which were not part of the existing statutory inspection requirements, will also be added to check for abnormalities that are difficult to detect with the naked eye.
The Ministry of Education said on the 14th that it would sign an MOU with the Korea Electrical Safety Corporation on the 15th to strengthen the safety management of school solar installations.
Under the current Electricity Safety Management Act, solar installations must be inspected by the Korea Electrical Safety Corporation at least once every four years. Accordingly, most schools currently undergo inspections on a four-year cycle. The agreement will enable schools participating in the Haetbit Ieum School program to undergo inspections every year. The cost is around 200,000 won per year.
Thermal imaging measurements will be added to the inspection items. The aim is to use thermal imaging cameras to check for abnormalities that are difficult to detect with the naked eye, enabling proactive measures if signs of fire risk are found.
The Korea Electrical Safety Corporation plans to expand its inspection workforce and equipment in preparation for increased demand, and to send schools inspection guides each year so they do not miss their inspection dates. It will also provide technical support for the operation and maintenance of school solar installations, safety management information, and electrical safety training for school personnel.
The shortened inspection cycle will initially apply to schools participating in the Haetbit Ieum School program. Whether to extend it to schools that already have solar installations will be reviewed later, taking into account the views of metropolitan and provincial offices of education and schools.
Education Minister Choi Kyo-jin said, "Safety is important as solar installations at schools expand," adding, "We will continue to develop measures to strengthen safety while minimizing the burden on schools."

[email protected] Kim Man-gi Reporter