1. Understanding Lightning Risk Mitigations
Understanding Lightning Risks?
Thunderstorms create lightning. Cold air holds ice crystals, while warm air carries water droplets. Friction charges clouds. The top and bottom clouds gain positive and negative charges.
Leader strokes happen when the bottom negative charge builds up. These strokes may hit the ground or clouds with opposite charges. Lightning flashes heat the air to 30,000°C (54,000°F). Thunder results from a rapid expansion of heated air.
Lightning Risk Mitigations
Lightning can travel and it takes the easiest path, connecting areas with opposite charges. Factors like humidity, temperature, and objects nearby affect its path. Tall, isolated, or conductive objects attract lightning, increasing the risk of injury or damage. These objects include trees, buildings, towers, and humans.
To stay safe during thunderstorms, remember the adage “lightning safety, thunder roars go indoors.” Avoid metal and electricity, and stay indoors. Never shelter under an isolated tree or be in open spaces.
Seek shelter in a low-lying area or a metal-roofed car. If you’re in vehicles with windows, make sure the windows are rolled up. Try to find a place for lying flat on the ground. Avoid tall or isolated objects, crowds, and water.
Lightning is unexpected and dangerous. But by understanding it and following safety tips, you can reduce the risk of being struck by lightning.
2. Lightning Risk Assessment
How to assess the risk of lightning strikes to your property
One way to assess the risk of lightning strikes is to use the MS IEC 62305 standard. It provides a methodology to calculate the risk based on various factors, such as:
- The location and size of your property
- The frequency and intensity of lightning flashes in your area
- The type and value of your property and its contents
- The presence of people in your property
- The availability and effectiveness of lightning protection systems
Factors that can increase or decrease the risk of lightning damage
- Being outdoors: Most lightning strikes happen to people outside, so check the weather forecast and seek indoor shelter when thunder sounds.
- Shelter choice: Not all shelters are safe during a thunderstorm. Avoid water, electronics, windows, doors, porches, and concrete. Enclosed buildings or hard-top vehicles with rolled-up windows offer the safest options.
- Proximity to objects: Lightning can jump from its target to nearby objects, like trees or people. Avoid standing under isolated tall objects during a storm, as lightning can also cause side flashes in the ground.
3. Lightning Risk Mitigations Strategies
Lightning protection systems for homes and businesses
A lightning protection system has three main parts: a lightning rod, a grounding system, and a surge protector. The rod attracts lightning and directs it safely to the ground through wires. The surge protector shields power lines. This also includes electrical outlets and electronic equipment from damage caused by lightning strikes.
A lightning protection system can lower the risk of lightning strikes and minimize damage. However, it doesn’t ensure complete safety. During thunderstorms, follow safety measures like staying indoors and away from metal objects.
For installing a lightning protection system, consult a professional to ensure it meets standards. A well-installed system offers peace of mind and safeguards against lightning’s destructive power.
4. Working with Professionals for Lightning Risk Mitigation
Understanding the installation process for lightning protection systems
Installing a Lightning Protection System (LPS) involves several steps:
- Assess the site for risks and decide where to place air terminals (metal rods) at high points.
- Connect air terminals to grounding electrodes using conductors, laying them out efficiently.
- Embed grounding electrodes in soil or concrete for lightning current dissipation.
- Install surge protection devices at entry points and near sensitive equipment.
- Plan carefully, follow standards and ensure proper testing for effectiveness.
Overall, it’s a precise process requiring professional planning, adherence to standards, and testing to ensure safety.
Why Work with Us?
TAKO since 1979 Earthing and Lightning Protection System is your one-stop-shop for all your lightning protection needs. We offer a comprehensive range of products and services to provide you with a total solution. TAKO Earthing and Lightning Protection System have over 21 years of experience in the field.
Our team of experts has a vast of knowledge and experience from design and installation to testing and maintenance. Trust in TAKO Earthing and Lightning Protection System for a total solution to your lightning protection needs.
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Disclaimer
The information contained in this blog is for informational and marketing purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Our focus is on providing comprehensive LPS total solution services. This service encompasses a wide range of solutions to design, install, and maintain a complete lightning protection system tailored to your specific needs. For any questions or to discuss your specific lightning protection needs, please contact us directly.
