Lightning has stayed consistent over time but the structures and systems exposed to it have changed dramatically, making it necessary for you to evaluate your lightning protection system. The sensitive electronics you use on a daily basis are extremely susceptible to lightning damage.

Equipment to protect against lightning strikes is based on the laws of physics. Solutions such as lightning rods, grounding, bonding, shielding, surge protection and circuit design can provide protection if designed and installed properly.

The threat of lightning will never be eliminated, but with a thorough protection system, structures can not only survive but continue to function. Consider the following damage that can be caused by lightning:

1. Computers and other equipment with electrical components or circuit boards can be damaged. Find the lightning protection materials that can protect all of your equipment, including fax machines, printers and TVs.

2. Electrical storm protection equipment must protect against large voltages, which cause the most damage. Electrical components and circuit boards in the surge path can be burnt out in less than a microsecond.

3. Long-term exposure to lower levels of overvoltages will degrade electronic components' circuits. Having the right lightning protection information decreases the possibility of equipment failure.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Research lightning protection companies

A number of companies provide full service when it comes to your lightning protection needs.

I recommend: From the choice of products to installation and follow-up, Independent Protection Co. offers a variety of solutions for businesses. Lightning Preventor of America allows you to get the exact service you want and need, including free design service and even do-it-yourself installation guides.

Consider an electrical grounding system

Your systems need grounding in order to eliminate electrostatic discharge. A good grounding system should control radio frequency emissions and electromagnetic interferences, establish a stable signal reference and create a discharge path for short circuits and lightning strikes (surge protection).

I recommend: Lyncole Industries provides a number of different grounding systems and resistance monitors. Harger Lightning & Grounding provides a range of grounding supplies such as compression lugs, connectors and tools, fence grounding equipment and ground bars and accessories, among others.

Maintain your protection system with lightning protection parts

Any lightning protection system can become ineffective over time if not properly maintained. It's important to inspect the system periodically for mechanical damage, system part corrosion or severed wire connections. All you need is one weak link for your protection system to fail.

I recommend: Lightning Rod Parts offers repair parts to replace conductors, fasteners, splicers and the like. Browse the products you need for certain applications from PolyPhaser Corporation.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Sensitive electronics can be damaged by lightning surges caused by strikes kilometers away. Even in places where very few thunderstorms occur, each square kilometer is struck an average of twice a year. These statistics alone are enough to make protection from lightning a priority.