The University of Konstanz pursues a sustainable energy policy and uses its roof surfaces to generate solar power. To operate these photovoltaic systems safely and efficiently, suitable fall protection was required. Together with our partner Paul Bauder GmbH & Co. KG we have implemented a solution that combines maximum PV area utilisation with the highest level of protection for the maintenance teams.
The central element for fall protection in this project is the BARRIER, which was installed on the university's roof surface with a total length of 2,280 metres. This fall protection ensures that all maintenance and cleaning work on the photovoltaic systems can be carried out safely without the need for additional personal protectiv equipment (PPE) .
The University of Konstanz – where research and sustainability come together
The University of Konstanz founded in 1966 as a reform university, stands for cutting-edge research, excellent teaching, internationality and interdisciplinary cooperation. It is one of eleven universities of excellence. As part of its environmental strategy, it is increasingly focusing on renewable energies and energy-efficient building technology. The installation of a large-scale PV system was therefore a consistent step towards a greener future.
Safe roof surface!
When the photovoltaic system was installed on the university's roof surface, the challenge was to make it safe to walk on. Regular servicing, cleaning and electrical work require safe access for specialist and untrained personnel. This is where Innotech and Paul Bauder GmbH & Co. KG came in.
Challenges of the project
- Optimal use of the roof surfaces
The university wanted to cover as much surface area as possible with PV modules. One challenge was to select a fall prevention (protection) system that takes up as little space as necessary while also meeting the highest safety standards.
- Logistical hurdles on campus
The campus of the University of Konstanz poses a logistical challenge due to its structural design. The delivery and installation of the fall prevention (protection) system required detailed planning.
- Safety and user-friendliness
Both professionals and people without special training regularly access the roof surface. Therefore, it was crucial to choose a fall protection system that is intuitive to use and does not require additional PPE – because in practice, this is often not used consistently.
The solution for securing the roof surface
Our BARRIER was chosen to meet the above requirements. With a stabiliser length of just 80 cm and a special additional ballasting, we were able to achieve an optimal balance between safety and space utilisation.
The main advantages of this solution:
- Maximum PV space utilisation: the compact design makes it possible to use as much roof space as possible for solar installations.
- No PPE: All maintenance work can be carried out safely without the need for workers to use additional personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Quick and easy installation: Thanks to close collaboration with our partners, the system was efficiently installed on campus.
- Sustainable fall prevention (protection) system: Durable materials and a well-thought-out construction ensure long-lasting protection.
The strong partners behind the project
Paul Bauder GmbH & Co. KG – Expertise in safe roofs
Bauder has been a leading supplier of flat roof systems for over 160 years. The company stands for high-quality, durable and cost-effective solutions. Through its partnership with Innotech, Bauder is adding high-performance fall protection systems that are perfectly matched to modern roof constructions. Together, we offer comprehensive fall protection solutions that combine maximum protection with maximum efficiency.
Vogtmann Montage- und Klettertechnik – specialists in height safety
The installation was carried out by the experienced team from Vogtmann Montage- und Klettertechnik. With their expertise and demanding installation work at height, they ensured a smooth installation on the university building.
Conclusion: safety and sustainability perfectly combined
Thanks to the close cooperation between the University of Konstanz, Bauder, Vogtmann and Innotech, it was possible to implement a fall protection system that meets the requirements of a fall prevention (protection) system and maximises the use of photovoltaics. The installation of our BARRIER not only enables safe access to the roofs, but also contributes to sustainable energy generation.
The University of Konstanz is setting new standards in the area of safe solar power generation and proving that innovation and safety can go hand in hand.
Fazit: Sicherheit und Nachhaltigkeit perfekt kombiniert
Dank der engen Zusammenarbeit zwischen der Universität Konstanz, Bauder, Vogtmann und Innotech konnte ein Absturzschutz umgesetzt werden, der den Anforderungen an Absturzsicherung und maximale PV-Nutzung gerecht wird. Die Installation unseres BARRIER ermöglicht nicht nur einen sicheren Zugang zu den Dächern, sondern trägt auch zur nachhaltigen Energiegewinnung bei.
Die Universität Konstanz setzt damit neue Maßstäbe in Sachen sicherer Solarstromgewinnung und beweist, dass Innovation und Sicherheit Hand in Hand gehen können.
