TAKO since 1979: Frequently Asked Questions on Lightning Protection Specialist Malaysia

Malaysia adopts MS IEC 62305 as the recognised standard for lightning protection. Whether a Lightning Protection System (LPS) is required depends on a professional Lightning Risk Assessment (LRA). Buildings with higher lightning exposure, valuable assets, critical operations or large public occupancy often require compliant protection to minimise operational, financial and safety risks. Installing a properly designed system also helps support insurance requirements, business continuity and engineering best practices.

MS IEC 62305 is the internationally recognised lightning protection standard adopted in Malaysia. It consists of four parts covering:

• General Principles
• Lightning Risk Management
• Protection Against Physical Damage
• Protection of Electrical & Electronic Systems

Following this standard ensures the entire protection system is professionally engineered rather than relying on individual products.

Every building has different risks. Instead of guessing, TAKO performs a professional Lightning Risk Assessment using specialised software based on MS IEC 62305-2. Factors evaluated include ground flash density, building dimensions, occupancy, structural materials, surrounding environment, soil conditions and critical business operations. The assessment determines the appropriate Lightning Protection Level (LPL I–IV), ensuring you receive adequate protection without unnecessary installation costs.

Conventional Franklin rods protect a relatively localised area by intercepting lightning strikes. Early Streamer Emission (ESE) Air Terminals are designed to provide a larger theoretical protection radius when installed according to applicable standards and manufacturer specifications. The most suitable solution depends on your project’s design requirements, risk assessment and applicable standards.

A lightning rod primarily protects the building structure from direct strikes. However, lightning also generates transient electrical surges that travel through power, communication and data lines. These surges can damage PLCs, CCTV systems, fire alarm panels, servers, production equipment and sensitive electronics. A complete Lightning Protection System should therefore include appropriately selected Surge Protective Devices (SPDs) installed at critical electrical and communication points.

The earthing system safely dissipates lightning current into the ground. Even the best air terminal cannot perform effectively without a properly designed grounding network. Grounding design depends on soil resistivity, electrode configuration, conductor sizing and site conditions. Regular testing helps verify the continued performance of the grounding system throughout its service life.

Traditional Lightning Protection Systems protect buildings and electrical infrastructure—not people working in open areas. Sites such as construction projects, ports, airports, sports facilities and plantations can improve safety by implementing a Thunderstorm Warning System that detects developing lightning activity and provides early alerts, giving personnel valuable time to move to safer locations.

Yes. Lightning rods protect against direct strikes to structures, while SPDs protect sensitive electrical and electronic equipment from transient overvoltages caused by lightning and switching events. Both systems work together as part of a complete lightning protection strategy.

Absolutely. Existing commercial, industrial and government buildings can usually be upgraded with compliant air termination systems, down conductors, grounding improvements, surge protection devices and inspection points without major structural modifications.

Regular inspection and maintenance are essential, particularly in Malaysia’s tropical climate where corrosion, construction changes and weather exposure can affect system performance. Periodic inspections generally include visual examinations, continuity testing, grounding resistance measurements and verification that system components remain intact and functional. Maintenance frequency should follow applicable standards, site risk and operational requirements.

A comprehensive inspection typically includes:

• Visual inspection of air terminals
• Down conductor continuity testing
• Earth resistance measurements
• Bonding verification
• SPD inspection
• Identification of damaged or missing components
• Maintenance recommendations and technical reporting

A professionally installed Lightning Protection System can provide long service life when properly maintained. Periodic inspections, timely repairs and replacement of worn components help ensure the system continues to perform as intended.

Lightning protection is commonly implemented in factories, warehouses, commercial buildings, hospitals, hotels, schools, universities, telecommunications facilities, oil & gas installations, logistics centres, airports, data centres, utilities, manufacturing plants and government infrastructure.

Yes. Professional lightning protection services can be provided throughout Peninsular Malaysia, including site assessments, system design, installation, inspection, testing and maintenance for commercial and industrial projects.

The first step is a professional site assessment together with a Lightning Risk Assessment. This identifies the level of risk, evaluates your existing installation (if any), and recommends the most appropriate engineering solution based on recognised standards and your operational requirements.