Technical / Education
Lightning Protection Systems
When properly designed and installed by a certified technician, lightning protection systems are scientifically proven to mitigate the risks of a lightning strike.
This page provides information for the beginner to the expert in lightning protection systems. Scroll down to see how a system works as well as articles, case studies, and white papers regarding lightning protection.
The Case
Why does my structure need a lightning protection system?
Our lives depend on our connection to others through technology. The data systems that hold valuable information are foundational to our businesses. One lightning strike can destroy those connections. The loss of data, or its critical Interruption can have far-reaching long-term consequences.
Avoid Interruption to your structure's critical electronic infrastructure by specifying and installing a certified lightning protection system
Critical Infrastructure
Call Center
Operating Room
The System
Consists of 6 Components
- Strike Termination Device
- Conductors
- Grounding
- Surge Protection
- Potential Equalization
- Inspection & Certification
Lightning protection is more than a rod, a cable, and a ground rod.
Proper protection is a “system” that requires specific design and measurements that create multiple paths to ground.
A “complete” system includes a 3rd party inspection/certification process conducted by a trained inspector in the lightning protection industry.
How do these components work together?
A lightning strike is intercepted by the strike termination device. The energy from the lightning strike is dispersed through the conductors and is directed to the grounding components to safeguard the structure and the electronic infrastructure.
The Process
From Start to Finish
Assessment
Specification
Installation
Inspection/Certification
Maintenance
The installation and maintenance of a Lightning Protection System utilizes Standards and Qualified Individuals
The Standards for the design and installation: NFPA 780 and LPI 175
Qualified Individuals: Architects, Engineers, Certified Lightning Protection Installers
Are you an Architect or Engineer and need a Specification?
Or do you need the Standards: NFPA 780 & LPI 175?
For more details, see our Resource Page for articles, case studies and research.
WEBINARS
Want to learn more about the basics of lightning protection systems and the process?
Next Webinar coming in June
December 10th @ 11:00am Central
Members $45 / Non-Members $55
Registration is Closed.
There are many questions when it comes to lightning protection systems: How do they work? Design considerations? Who should install and inspect these systems?
This webinar will answer these questions and more. We will discuss the fundamentals of a lightning protection system to enable you to start or join a conversation on lightning protection systems.
These fundamentals will include:
· Overview of components and how they work together to protect a structure
· Outline of the process for installation and inspection
· Discussion of considerations for design, specification, and installation
See learning objectives and the AIA - health, safety, & welfare criteria.
Webinar Objectives
Sponsored by the LPI and our Members
The LPI hosts Vaisala Xweather.
"Weather Critical: Understanding Your Risk Profile to Lightning"
Missed the Live Webinar?
Catch the Replay!
We are making the webinar with Ross Machurick from Vaisala Xweather available for everyone... in honor of Small Business Week.
Assessment relies on accurate data and knowledge.
In a 30-minute webinar, you'll see how assessment is part of the lightning protection system process - and most of the time is spent with Ross, who outlies what data is available and how to use that data.
Watch now on the Lightning Protection Institute's YouTube Channel: Vaisala Xweather Webinar
Available until May 15th.
Scientific Lightning Solutions (SLS) provides scientific expertise, cutting edge technology, and customized solutions to protect facilities and structures against the impact of lightning.
Their scientific knowledge initially served the aerospace industry, where failure is not an option! They have expanded and adapted to other industries while keeping to their core scientific approach. SLS’s R&D team has developed groundbreaking technologies and they continue to expand their scope of work as they encounter new and challenging projects.
The Lightning Protection Institute – Inspection Program (LPI-IP) is the most comprehensive, 3rd part inspection program for the lightning protection industry. The LPI-IP has the ISO/IEC 17020 Accreditation Inspection Body listing from ANAB, the ANSI National Board of Accreditation.
Webinar Partnership Series
The LPI Partnership Series features experts from our industry or other
industries who share valuable data and insights.
Check back for upcoming webinars!
The LPI hosts Scientific Lightning Solutions and the LPI-IP.
"Building Operational Resilience: Protecting Assets and Operations from Lightning Strikes."
November 20th @ 11:30am Central
Registration is Closed
Come join us as SLS discusses the importance of assessment and maintenance to mitigate risks and build operational resilience - to protect assets and operations from lightning strikes.
Gain foundational knowledge on lightning protection systems, risk assessment, compliance standards, and maintenance to enhance operational resilience. Learn practical strategies to safeguard facilities, mitigate risks, and enhance resilience with real-world case studies.
The LPI-IP will also join us to share an overview of their inspection program.
See a detailed description and webinar objectives here: Webinar Objectives
Scientific Lightning Solutions (SLS) provides scientific expertise, cutting edge technology, and customized solutions to protect facilities and structures against the impact of lightning.
Their scientific knowledge initially served the aerospace industry, where failure is not an option! They have expanded and adapted to other industries while keeping to their core scientific approach. SLS’s R&D team has developed groundbreaking technologies and they continue to expand their scope of work as they encounter new and challenging projects.
The Lightning Protection Institute – Inspection Program (LPI-IP) is the most comprehensive, 3rd part inspection program for the lightning protection industry. The LPI-IP has the ISO/IEC 17020 Accreditation Inspection Body listing from ANAB, the ANSI National Board of Accreditation.
Brochures
Articles, Case Studies & Research
Articles
How Much Lightning Actually Strikes the United States?
Authors: Chris Vagasky, Ronald L. Holle, Martin J. Murphy, John A. Cramer, Ryan K. Said, Mitchell Guthrie*, and Jesse Hietanen (*LPI Member)
Get the Details on the NEW Code in 2024: IBC Code 2703
By The Lightning Protection Institute
Case Studies
Don’t see what you need?
Start a conversation with us at lpi@lightning.org
