FORT MILL, S.C. — Tensions are rising as former employees at Silfab Solar allege serious safety violations and retaliatory actions by company management. Jason Rhoades, a former quality control technician, claims that he was told to leave the manufacturing site shortly before inspections were scheduled, indicating that the company was attempting to mask safety deficiencies.
Rhoades alleges in a whistleblower lawsuit filed in July that Silfab management implemented an emergency plan to ensure the plant appeared unoccupied during these inspections. “I have been asked suddenly to stop work and leave the plant when inspectors were shortly to arrive,” Rhoades stated in his affidavit. “This happened to me personally.” The former employee’s concerns led him to notify the Fire Marshal’s office regarding workers operating without an occupancy permit, triggering an unannounced inspection.
This June review by county officials resulted in a five-day work stoppage, during which inspectors noted several safety violations—including obstructed exits and the absence of fire alarms and sprinkler systems. Following this incident, Rhoades claims he faced retaliation, resulting in his termination just weeks later. He has worked in quality control for 30 years and contends that he was let go for reporting these violations.
Silfab Solar has not publicly commented on Rhoades’ allegations, but the company has previously denied any wrongdoing related to his initial claims. The lawsuit has garnered attention, particularly as it suggests a pattern of behavior in which management clears employees from the facility to create the illusion of compliance during inspections.
Local residents have raised concerns about Silfab’s plant being situated in a light industrial zone, arguing that solar panel production should be considered heavy industry and subject to different zoning regulations. For nearly two years, these objections have persisted, culminating in a June 2024 zoning board ruling, which deemed Silfab’s project illegal. The firm, however, contends that this ruling does not apply to their operations and has filed an appeal, asserting their legal standing to operate the plant.
As legal battles unfold, residents and local officials continue to express worries about the potential environmental and safety implications of the solar panel manufacturing facility, emphasizing the need for compliance with zoning laws and safety regulations.
The developments at Silfab Solar reflect broader community sentiments regarding industrial operations within residential areas, highlighting ongoing debates about zoning, safety, and corporate accountability.
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