DRAFT FOR DEVELOPMENT DD ENV

61024-1:1995

Protection of
structures against
lightning —
Part 1: General principles
DD ENV 61024-1:1995

Committees responsible for this Draft

for Development

The preparation of this Draft for Development was entrusted to Technical

Committee GEL/81, Protection against lightning, upon which the following
bodies were represented:

Association of Consulting Engineers

BEAMA (Electrical Cable and Conductor Accessory Manufacturers’
Association)
British Broadcasting Corporation
British Gas plc
British Telecommunications plc
Cathedrals Advisory Commission for England
Council for the Care of Churches
Department of the Environment
ERA Technology Ltd.
Electricity Association
Engineering Equipment and Materials Users’ Association
National Federation of Master Steeplejacks and Lightning Conductor
Engineers

This Draft for Development,

having been prepared
under the direction of the
Electrotechnical Sector
Board, was published
under the authority of the
Standards Board and Amendments issued since publication
comes into effect on
15 June 1995
Amd. No. Date Comments
© BSI 03-2000

The following BSI references

relate to the work on this Draft
for Development:
Committee reference GEL/81

ISBN 0 580 24306 0

 DD ENV 61024-1:1995

Contents

Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
National foreword ii
Foreword 2
Text of ENV 61024-1 5
List of references Inside back cover

© BSI 03-2000 i
DD ENV 61024-1:1995

National foreword

This Draft for Development has been prepared by Technical Committee GEL/81
and is the English language version of European Prestandard ENV 61024-1
Protection of structures against lightning — Part 1: General principles published
by the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC).
This publication is not to be regarded as a British Standard
It is being issued in the Draft for Development series of publications and is of a
provisional nature because it is based on an IEC draft which is still subject to
technical change as it has not yet reached the Draft International Standard (DIS)
stage. When the DIS stage has been reached it will be submitted to the
IEC/CENELEC parallel voting procedure. In the event of a positive vote and
subsequent publication of the European Standard (EN), this ENV will be
withdrawn. This is highly likely to occur before the normal review of an ENV
which is undertaken after two years.
As a published document, normative references to this ENV can be made in
European Standards (ENs).
Any observations on the contents of the Draft for Development should be sent to
the Secretary of GEL/81 at 389 Chiswick High Road, London W2 4AL for
consideration by the committee.

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
the ENV title page, pages 2 to 36, an inside back cover and a back cover.
This standard has been updated (see copyright date) and may have had
amendments incorporated. This will be indicated in the amendment table on the
inside front cover.

ii © BSI 03-2000
EUROPEAN PRESTANDARD ENV 61024-1
PRENORME EUROPÉENNE
January 1995
EUROPÄISCHE VORNORM

ICS 91.120.40

Descriptors: Lightning, protection of structures, design, installation, maintenance, protection levels

English version

Protection of structures against lightning

Part 1: General principles
(IEC 1024-1:1990, modified)

Protection des structures contre la foudre Gabäudeblitzschutz

Première partie: Principes généraux Teil 1: Allgemeine Grundsätze
(CEI 1024-1:1990, modifiée) (IEC 1024-1:1990, modifiziert)

This European Prestandard (ENV) was approved by CENELEC on 1994-10-24

as a prospective standard for provisional application. The period of validity of
this ENV is limited initially to three years. After two years the members of
CENELEC will be requested to submit their comments, particularly on the
question whether the ENV can be converted into a European Standard (EN).
CENELEC members are required to announce the existence of this ENV in the
same way as for an EN and to make the ENV available promptly at national
level in an appropriate form. It is permissible to keep conflicting national
standards in force (in parallel to the ENV) until the final decision about the
possible conversion of the ENV into an EN is reached.
CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria,
Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy,
Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and
United Kingdom.

CENELEC
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung
Central Secretariat: rue de Stassart 35, B-1050 Brussels

© 1995 Copyright reserved to CENELEC members

Ref. No. ENV 61024-1:1995 E
ENV 61024-1:1995

Foreword Contents
This European Prestandard, which is based on the Page
International Standards IEC 1024-1:1990 and Foreword 2
IEC 1024-1-1:1993, has been prepared by Reporting
Introduction 5
Secretariat SR 81.
1 General 5
The text of the draft was voted and accepted during
the meeting of SR 81 on 1994-10-24. 1.1 Scope and object 5
The following date was fixed: 1.2 Terms and definitions 6
— latest date of 1.3 Reinforced concrete structures 8
announcement of the ENV 1.4 Protection levels 8
at national level (doa) 1995-01-04 1.5 Lightning current parameters 8
Annexes designated normative are part of the body 1.6 Design of the LPS 8
of the standard. In this prestandard, all annexes are 2 External lightning protection
normative. installation (LPI) 8
2.0 General 8
2.1 Air terminations systems 9
2.2 Down-conductor systems 10
2.3 Earth termination systems 11
2.4 Clamping and joints 12
2.5 Materials and dimensions 12
3 Internal lightning protection installation 12
3.0 General 12
3.1 Equipotential bonding 13
3.2 Isolation of the external LPI 14
4 Maintenance and inspection of LPS 14
4.1 Scope of inspections 14
4.2 Order of inspections 14
4.3 Maintenance 14
Annex A (normative) Parameters of
lightning current 18
Annex B (normative) Positioning of the
air-termination system 20
Annex C (normative) Lightning current
flowing through external conductive
parts and installations entering the
structure 23
Annex D (normative) Minimum cross
section of the screen for the
self-protection of a cable 24
Annex E (normative) Partitioning of the
lightning current amongst
down-conductors 25
Annex F (normative) Selection of protection
level for LPS 29
Annex ZA (normative) Normative references
to international publications with their
corresponding European publications 36
Figure 1 — Loop in a down-conductor 16

2 © BSI 03-2000
 ENV 61024-1:1995

Page Page
Figure 2 — Minimum length l1 of earth Table 4 — Minimum thickness of metal
electrodes according to the protection sheets or metal pipes in air-termination
levels (see Sub-clauses 2.3.2 and 2.3.3). systems 16
Levels III and IV are independent of soil Table 5 — Typical distances between
resistivity 17 down-conductors and ring conductors
Figure A.1 — Cumulative frequency according to the protection level 16
distribution of lightning parameters 19 Table 6 — Isolation of external LPI. Values
Figure B.1 — Volume protected by a of coefficient ki 16
vertical rod air-termination system 21 Table 7 — Isolation of external LPI. Values
Figure B.2 — Volume protected by a of coefficient km 16
wire air-termination system 21 Table C.1 — Equivalent earth resistance
Figure B.3 — Volume protected by a values Z and Z1 according to the resistivity
mesh air-termination system 22 of the soil 24
Figure B.4 — Design of the LPS Table D.1 — Cable length to be considered
air-termination according to the according to the condition of the screen 24
“rolling sphere” method. Table D.2 — Impulse withstand voltage (kV)
Air-termination conductors are installed of the cable insulation for different rated
on all points and segments which are in voltages 24
contact with the “rolling sphere”. The
Table E.1 — Values of coefficient kc 25
“rolling sphere” radius should comply
with the selected protection level 23 Table F.1 — Consequential effects of
lightning 32
Figure E.1 — Values of coefficient kc in the
case of a wire air-termination system and Table F.2 — Determination of environmental
type B earth termination system 25 coefficient Ce 32
Figure E.2 — Values of coefficient kc in the
case of a mesh air-termination system
and type B earth termination system 26
Figure E.3 — Values of coefficient kc in the
case of mesh air-termination systems,
interconnecting ring of the
down-conductors and type B earth
termination system 27
Figure E.4 — Examples of the calculation
of the safety distance in the case of mesh
air-termination system, interconnecting
ring of the down-conductors and
type B earth termination system 28
Figure F.1 — Equivalent collection area
of a structure in flat country 33
Figure F.2 — Flow diagram for LPS
selection procedure 34
Figure F.3 — Critical values of required
efficiency of LPS as a function of Nd and No 35
Table 1 — Relation between protection
levels and efficiency 14
Table 2 — Values of lightning parameters
corresponding to protection levels 15
Table 3 — Protection angle, rolling sphere
radius and mesh size according to the
protection level 15

© BSI 03-2000 3
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 ENV 61024-1:1995

Introduction 1 General
It should be noted that a lightning protection system
cannot prevent the formation of lightning.
1.1 Scope and object
To date no devices or methods have been 1.1.1 Scope
scientifically proven capable of preventing lightning This standard provides information for the design,
from occurring or preventing lightning from striking installation, inspection and maintenance of
structures. Lightning Protection Systems (LPS) using rods,
A lightning protection system, designed and stretched wires, and mushed conductors as
installed in accordance with this standard, cannot air-termination system for the protection of
guarantee absolute protection to structures, structures against lightning as indicated in
persons, or objects; however, application of this Sub-clause 1.1.2, as well as for persons,
standard will significantly reduce risk of damage installations and contents in or on them.
caused by lightning to the structure protected by it. NOTE Air-termination systems other than those considered in
this standard such as early streamer emission terminals exist
The type and location of a lightning protection but are outside the scope of this Standard. They are taken into
system should be carefully considered at the design account in the standards issued by National Committees of some
stage of a new structure, thereby enabling countries.
maximum advantage to be taken of the electrically 1.1.2 Object
conductive parts of the structure. Thus design and This standard is applicable to the design and
construction of an integrated installation is made
installation of Lightning Protection Systems (LPS),
easier, the overall aesthetic aspects can be
as defined in Sub-clause 1.1.1, for common
improved, and the effectiveness of the lightning
structures up to 60 m high.
protection system can be increased at minimum cost
and effort. The following cases are outside the scope of this
standard:
Access to ground and proper use of foundation
steelwork for the purpose of forming an effective a) railway systems;
earth termination may well be impossible once b) electrical transmission, distribution and
construction work on a site has commenced. generating systems external to a structure;
Therefore, soil resistivity and the nature of the c) telecommunication systems external to a
earth should be considered at the earliest possible structure;
stage of a project. This information is fundamental
d) vehicles, ships, aircraft, offshore installations.
to the design of an earth termination system which
NOTE Usually the systems from a) to d) are under special
may influence the foundation design work of regulations made by various specific authorities.
architects.
Additional requirements to those specified in this
To avoid unnecessary work, regular consultation standard are necessary in the case such as:
between lightning protection system designers,
— tall structures (above 60 m height);
architects and builders is essential.
— structures dangerous to their surroundings
This standard provides information on setting up
Lightning Protection Systems (LPS) for common due to explosion or to propagation of fire;
structures. — structures dangerous to the environment due
to the possible emission of toxic, radioactive,
The design, installation and materials of LPS
contamined or polluted substances;
should fully comply with the provisions of this
standard. — temporary structures and structures under
construction;
— tents, camping sites and sports fields;
— installations and electronic equipment
sensitive to overvoltages.
NOTE Components used for erection of the LPS are covered by
EN 50164 “Lightning protection components” (in preparation).

© BSI 03-2000 5
ENV 61024-1:1995

1.2 Terms and definitions 1.2.11

direct lightning
For the purpose of this standard, the following
definitions apply. a lightning which strikes directly the structure or its
LPS
1.2.1
lightning to earth 1.2.12
indirect lightning
an electrical discharge of atmospheric origin
between cloud and earth consisting of one or more a lightning which strikes the earth in the vicinity of
strokes the structure, or the services entering the structure
1.2.2 1.2.13
lightning stroke direct lightning frequency (Nd)
a single electrical discharge in a lightning to earth the expected average annual number of direct
lightnings to the structure
1.2.3
point of strike 1.2.14
common structures
a point where a lightning stroke contacts the earth,
a structure or an LPS common structures are structures used for ordinary
NOTE A lightning may have more than one point of strike.
purposes whether commercial, industrial, farm,
institutional or residential
1.2.4
lightning current (i) 1.2.15
structure to be protected
the current flowing at the point of strike
the structure for which protection against the
1.2.5 effects of lightning in accordance with this standard
peak value (I) is required
the maximum value of the lightning current 1.2.16
1.2.6 protected volume
average steepness of the lightning current the volume that is assumed not to be directly struck
(%i/%t) by the lightning
the average rate of change of current calculated over 1.2.17
the 30 % to 90 % of peak amplitude on the wave tolerable lightning frequency (Nc)
front
the maximum accepted average annual number of
i 90 – i 30 lightnings which can cause damage to the structure
%i ⁄ %t = ---------------------
t 90 – t 30
1.2.18
1.2.7 risk of damage (Rd)
flash duration (T) the probable annual losses (humans and goods) in a
time for which the lightning current flows at the structure due to lightnings
point of strike 1.2.19
1.2.8 lightning protection system (LPS)
total charge (Qtotal) the complete system used to protect a volume
the time integral of the lightning current for the against the effects of lightning. It consists of both
entire lightning duration external and internal lightning protection
1.2.9 installations (LPI)
impulse charge (Qimpulse) NOTE In particular cases, an LPS may consist of an external or
an internal installation only.
the time integral of the lightning current for the 1.2.20
impulse part of the lightning duration efficiency of LPS (E)
1.2.10 the ratio of the average annual number of direct
specific energy (SE) lightnings which cannot cause damage to the
the energy dissipated by the lightning current in a structure protected by an LPS, to the direct
unit resistance. It is the time integral of the square lightning number to the structure
of the lightning current for the duration of the
lightning

6 © BSI 03-2000
 ENV 61024-1:1995

1.2.21 1.2.31
protection level foundation earth electrode
a term denoting the classification of an LPS an earth electrode embedded in the concrete
according to its efficiency foundation of a structure
NOTE It expresses the probability with which an LPS protects 1.2.32
a volume against the effects of lightning.
equivalent earth resistance
1.2.22
the ratio of the peak values of the earth-termination
external lightning protection installation
voltage and the earth-termination current which, in
consists of an air-termination system, a general, do not occur simultaneously. It is used
down-conductor system and an earth termination conventionally to indicate the efficiency of the
system earth-termination system
1.2.23 1.2.33
internal lightning protection installation earth-termination voltage
all measures additional to those given in the potential difference between the
Sub-clause 1.2.22 which would reduce the earth-termination system and the remote earth
electromagnetic effects of lightning current within
1.2.34
the volume to be protected
“natural” component of an LPS
1.2.24
a component not installed specifically for lightning
lightning equipotential bonding (EB)
protection which can be used in addition to the LPS
that part of an internal LPI which reduces potential or in some cases could provide the function of one or
differences caused by lightning current more parts of the LPS
1.2.25 NOTE Some examples of the use of this term are as follows:
air-termination system — “natural” air-termination;
— “natural” down-conductor;
that part of an external LPI which is intended to — “natural” earth electrode
intercept lightnings
1.2.35
1.2.26 metal installations
down-conductor
extended metal items in the structure to be
that part of an external LPI which is intended to protected which may form a path for lightning
conduct lightning current from the air-termination current, such as pipe-work, staircases, elevator
system to the earth-termination system guide rails, ventilation, heating and air conditioning
1.2.27 ducts, and interconnected reinforcing steel
ring conductor 1.2.36
conductor forming a loop around the structure and external conductive parts
interconnecting the down-conductors for an equal extended metal items entering or leaving the
distribution of lightning current among them structure to be protected such as: pipe works, cable
1.2.28 screens, metal ducts, etc. which may carry a part of
earth-termination system the lightning current
that part of an external LPI which is intended to 1.2.37
conduct and disperse lightning current to the earth bonding bar
NOTE The earth-termination system may intercept lightning a bar on which metal installations, external
currents which flow through the soil due to lightnings to the conductive parts, electrical power and
earth in the neighbourhood.
telecommunication lines, and other cables can be
1.2.29 bonded to an LPS
earth electrode
1.2.38
a part or group of parts of the earth-termination bonding conductor
system which provides direct electrical contact with
conductor for equalization of potentials
and disperses the lightning current to the earth
1.2.39
1.2.30
interconnected reinforcing steel
ring earth electrode
steelwork within a concrete structure which is
an earth electrode forming a closed loop around the
considered electrically continuous
structure below or on the surface of the earth

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ENV 61024-1:1995

1.2.40 1.4 Protection levels

dangerous sparking
The characteristics of required LPS depend on the
an unacceptable electrical discharge caused by characteristics of the structure to be protected and
lightning current inside the structure to be on the protection level to be achieved.
protected
Four different protection levels are considered in
1.2.41 this standard.
safety distance The efficiency of LPS decreases from protection level
the minimum distance between two conductive I to protection level IV. The relation between
parts within the structure to be protected between protection levels and efficiency is given in Table 1
which no dangerous sparking can occur for selection of protection level purposes.
1.2.42 The appropriate protection level shall be selected on
surge protective device (SPD) the basis of the risk of damage evaluation.
a device designed to limit the surge voltages A guidance for selection of the LPS is given
between two parts such as a spark gap, surge in Annex F.
diverter, semiconductor device, etc
1.2.43
1.5 Lightning current parameters
test joint The values of lightning parameters corresponding to
a joint which is designed and situated to facilitate protection levels are given in Table 2.
electrical testing and measurement of LPS Statistical distribution of lightning current
components parameters and their effects on LPS are reported
in Annex A.
1.2.44
external LPI isolated from the structure to be
protected
1.6 Design of the LPS
an LPI whose air-termination system and A technically and economically optimized design of
down-conductor system are positioned in such a way an LPS is only possible if the steps in the design of
that the path of the lightning current has no contact the LPS are correlated with the steps in the design
with the structure to be protected and construction of the structure to be protected. In
particular, the possible utilization of metal parts of
1.2.45 a structure as parts of the LPS should be foreseen in
external LPI not isolated from the structure to the design of the structure itself.
be protected
an LPI whose air-termination system and 2 External lightning protection
down-conductor system are positioned in such a way installation
that the path of the lightning current can be in
contact with the structure to be protected 2.0 General
The external LPI is intended to intercept direct
1.3 Reinforced concrete structures lightnings, to conduct lightning current from the
Steelwork within reinforced concrete structures is point of strike to the earth and to disperse it to the
considered to be electrically continuous provided earth without causing thermal and mechanical
that it fulfils the following conditions: damages to the structure to be protected, and
a) approximately 50 % of interconnections of overvoltages dangerous for persons.
vertical and horizontal bars are welded or are 2.0.1 Choice of type of external LPI
securely tied;
In most cases, the external LPI may be attached to
b) vertical bars are welded or are overlapped a the protected structure.
minimum of 20 times their diameters and
An isolated external LPI should be used when the
securely tied;
thermal effects on the point of strike or on
c) electrical continuity of the reinforcing steel is conductors carrying the lightning current may
established between individual precast concrete cause damage to the structure or to the content of
units and other adjacent precast concrete units. the volume to be protected.

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NOTE 1 Typical cases are: 2.1.3 “Natural” components

— structures with combustible covenng
— structures with combustible walls The following parts of a structure may be considered
— areas with danger of explosion and fire as “natural” air-termination components:
NOTE 2 The use of an isolated LPI may be convenient where it a) metal sheets covering the structure to be
is predicted that changes in structure, contents or use of the
volume to be protected may cause modifications to the LPI. protected providing that:
Dangerous sparking shall be avoided: — the electrical continuity between the
various parts is made durable (e.g. by means of
— in isolated external LPI by insulation or
brazing, welding, crimping, screwing or
separation according to Clause 3.2;
bolting);
— in non isolated external LPI by bonding,
— the thickness of the metal sheet is not less
according to Clause 3.1, or by insulation or
than the value t given in Table 4 if it is
separation according to Clause 3.2.
necessary to take precautions against
2.0.2 Use of natural components puncture or to consider hot spot problems;
Natural components which will always remain in — the thickness of the metal sheet is not less
the structure, which will not be modified and whose than:
conductivity is measurable (e.g.: interconnected — 0,5 mm for galvanized steel;
reinforced steel, metal framework of the structure,
etc.) can be used as part of LPS. — 0,4 mm for stainless steel;
Other natural components should be used only in — 0,3 mm for copper;
addition to LPS. — 0,7 mm for aluminium and zinc;
NOTE Natural components should only be used as parts of the — 2 mm for lead
LPS with the agreement of the structural engineer for the
building or the property owner. if it is not important to prevent puncture of
In this case, connection points should be provided during the sheeting or to consider ignition at any
construction. combustible materials underneath;
— they are not clad in insulating material;
2.1 Air-termination systems
— non-metallic materials on or above the
2.1.1 General metal sheet can be excluded from the structure
The probability of a lightning stroke penetrating the to be protected;
structure to be protected is considerably decreased b) metal components of roof construction (trusses,
by the presence of a properly designed interconnected reinforcing steel, etc.),
air-termination system. underneath non-metallic roofing, providing that
The air-termination systems can be composed of any this latter part can be excluded from the
combination of the following elements: structure to be protected;
1) rods; c) metal parts such as gutters, ornamentations,
2) stretched wires; railings, etc., whose cross-section is not less than
that specified for standard air-termination
3) meshed conductors. components;
2.1.2 Positioning d) metal pipes and tanks, providing that they are
In determining the position of the air-termination constructed of material not less than 2,5 mm
system, two methods are generally used. These are thick, and that a dangerous or otherwise
the “protection angle” method and the “rolling unacceptable situation will not be created if they
sphere” method. become punctured;
For most simple shape buildings, the protection e) metal pipes and tanks in general, providing
angle method is suitable, but the rolling sphere that they are constructed of material whose
method is suggested for complicated cases. thickness is not less than the appropriate value of
Where plane surfaces are to be protected, a third t given in Table 4 and that the temperature rise
method, “the mesh method”, is a suitable form of of the inner surface at the point of strike does not
protection. constitute a danger.
NOTE 1 A light coating of protective paint or 1 mm asphalt
The values for protection angle, rolling sphere or 0,5 mm PVC is not regarded as an insulator.
radius and mesh size are given in Table 3 according NOTE 2 Use of piping as air-termination components is
to the protection level chosen; the positioning of the restricted in special cases (under consideration).
air-termination system is given in Annex B.

© BSI 03-2000 9
ENV 61024-1:1995

2.2 Down-conductor systems Down-conductors shall be installed straight and

vertical such that they provide the shortest, most
2.2.1 General
direct path to earth. The formation of loops shall be
In order to reduce the occurrence of damage due to avoided. Where this is not possible, the distance d,
the lightning current flowing in the LPS, the measured across the gap between two points on the
down-conductors are to be arranged in such a way conductor and the length l of the conductor between
that from point of strike to earth: those points shall comply with Sub-clause 3.2
a) several parallel current paths should exist; (see Figure 1).
b) the length of the current paths is kept to a NOTE Down-conductors should not be installed in gutters or
down-spouts even if they are covered by insulating material. The
minimum; effects of moisture in the gutters lead to intensive corrosion of the
c) equipotential bonding is performed everywhere clown-conductor. It is recommended that the down-conductors be
positioned such that a spacing be provided between them and any
it is necessary. doors or windows.
The geometry of the down-conductors and of the Down-conductors of LPI not isolated from the
ring conductors effects the safety distance structure to be protected may be installed as follows:
(Clause 3.2).
— if the wall is made of non-combustible material
2.2.2 Positioning for isolated LPS the down-conductors may be positioned on the
a) If the air-termination consists of rods on surface or in the wall;
separate masts (or one mast), at least one — if the wall is made of flammable material, the
down-conductor is needed for each mast. In the down-conductors can be positioned on the surface
case of masts made of metal or interconnected of the walls, provided that their temperature rise
reinforcing steel, no additional down-conductor is due to the passage of lightning current is not
necessary. dangerous for the material of the wall;
b) If the air-termination consists of stretched — if the wall is made of flammable material and
wires (or one wire), at least one down-conductor is the temperature rise of down-conductors is
needed at each wire end. dangerous, the down-conductors shall be placed
c) If the air-termination forms a network of in such a way that the distance between them and
conductors, at least one down-conductor is the wall is always greater than 0,1 m. Mounting
needed for each supporting structure. brackets made of metal may be in contact with
the wall.
2.2.3 Positioning for not-isolated LPS
2.2.5 “Natural” components
a) If the air-termination consists of one rod, at
least one down-conductor is needed. The following parts of the structure may be
considered “natural” down-conductors:
If the air-termination consists of individual rods,
at least one down-conductor for each rod is a) Metal installations provided that:
needed. — the electrical continuity between the
b) If the air-termination consists of stretched various parts is made durable according to the
wires, at least one down-conductor is needed at requirements of Sub-clause 2.4.2;
each wire end. — their dimensions are at least equal to that
c) If the air-termination consists of meshed specified for standard down-conductors;
conductors, at least two down-conductors are NOTE 1 The metal installations may be clad in insulating
needed, distributed around the perimeter of the material.
NOTE 2 The use of pipes as down-conductors is restricted in
structure to be protected. special cases (under consideration).
NOTE 1 Examples of suggested values of the distance between
down-conductors and between horizontal ring conductors are
b) the metal framework of the structure;
given in Table 5. c) the interconnected reinforcing steel of the
NOTE 2 An equal spacing of the down-conductors is preferred concrete structure;
around the perimeter. A down-conductor should be near to each
corner of the structure where this is possible. NOTE In the case of prestressed concrete, attention should
be paid to the risk of inadmissible mechanical influences,
Down-conductors shall be interconnected near partly due to lightning current, partly as a consequence of the
ground level. connection to the lightning protection system.
2.2.4 Construction d) facade elements, profiled rails and
sub-constructions of metal facades provided that:
The down-conductors shall be so arranged that they
become, as far as possible, the direct continuation of — their dimensions comply with the
the air-termination conductors. requirements for down-conductors and their
thickness is not less than 0,5 mm;

10 © BSI 03-2000
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— their electrical continuity in a vertical The minimum length of each electrode is:
direction complies with the requirements of l1 for radial horizontal electrodes or
Sub-clause 2.4.2 or the distance between the
metal parts does not exceed 1 mm and the 0,5 l1 for vertical (or inclined) electrodes.
overlap between two elements is at l1 being the minimum length of radial electrodes
least 100 cm2. shown in the relevant part of Figure 2.
The ring conductors are not necessary if the metal The minimum lengths stated in Figure 2 may be
frame-work of steel structures or the interconnected disregarded provided that an earth resistance of
reinforcing steel of the concrete structure is used as less than 10 7 is achieved.
the down-conductors. NOTE For combined (vertical or horizontal) electrodes the total
equivalent length should be considered.
2.2.6 Test joint
2.3.2.2 Type B arrangement
At the connection of the earth-termination a test
joint should be fitted on each down-conductor, This type of arrangement comprises either a ring
except in the case of “natural” down-conductors earth electrode external to the structure in contact
combined with foundation earth electrodes. with the soil for at least 80 % of its total length or a
foundation earth electrode.
The joint should be capable of being opened with the
aid of a tool for measuring purposes, but normally it For the ring earth electrode (or foundation earth
should be closed. electrode), the mean radius r of the area enclosed by
the ring earth electrode (or foundation earth
2.3 Earth-termination systems electrode) shall be not less than the value l1:
2.3.1 General r U l1
l1 being represented in Figure 2 according to the
In order to disperse the lightning current into the
protection levels I, II and III and IV, respectively.
earth without causing dangerous overvoltages, the
shape and dimensions of the earth-termination When the required value of l1 is larger than the
system are more important than a specific value of convenient value of r, additional radial or vertical
the resistance of the earth electrode. However, in (or inclined) electrodes shall be added whose
general, a low earth resistance is recommended. individual lengths lr (horizontal) and lv (vertical) are
given by:
From the viewpoint of lightning protection, a single
integrated structure earth-termination system is lr = l1 – r
preferable and is suitable for all purposes and
(i.e. lightning protection, low-voltage power
l1 – r
systems, telecommunication systems). l v = -------------
2
Earth-termination systems shall be bonded in
accordance with Sub-clause 3.1. The number of the additional electrodes shall be not
NOTE 1 The conditions of separation and bonding of other
less than the number of the down-conductors with a
earth-termination systems are normally determined by the minimum of two.
appropriate national authorities.
2.3.3 Earthing arrangements in particular
NOTE 2 Serious corrosion problems can occur when earthing
systems utilizing different materials are connected to each other. conditions
2.3.2 Earthing arrangements in general When equipotential bonding in accordance with
conditions Clause 3 is required but an external LPI is not
required, a horizontal electrode of length l1 or a
For earth-termination systems, two basic types of
vertical (or inclined) electrode of length 0,5 l1 can be
earth electrode arrangements apply.
used as earth-termination.
2.3.2.1 Type A arrangement The earth-termination of the low-voltage electrical
This type of arrangement comprises horizontal or installation can be used for this purpose provided
vertical earth electrodes connected to each that the overall length of the earth electrodes is not
down-conductor. Where there is a ring conductor, less than l1 for horizontal or 0,5 l1 for vertical (or
which interconnects the down-conductors, in inclined) electrodes.
contact with the soil, the earth electrode 2.3.4 Installation of earth electrodes
arrangement is still classified as type A if the ring
conductor is in contact with the soil for less The external ring earth electrode should preferably
than 80 % of its length. be buried at a depth of at least 0,5 m but not closer
than 1 m to the walls.
In type A arrangement the minimum total number
of earth electrodes shall be two.

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The earth electrodes shall be installed outside the 2.5 Materials and dimensions
volume to be protected at a depth of at least 0,5 m
2.5.1 Materials
and distributed as uniformly as possible to minimize
electrical coupling effects in the earth. The materials used shall withstand the electric and
Embedded earth electrodes shall be installed in electromagnetic effects of the lightning current and
such a way as to allow inspection during predictable accidental stresses without being
construction. damaged.
The embedded depth and the type of the earth Material shall be chosen bearing in mind the
electrodes shall be such as to minimize the effects of possibility of corrosion either of the structure to be
corrosion, soil drying and freezing and thereby protected or of the LPS, considering the installation
stabilize the equivalent earth resistance. It is in open air, in earth or in concrete.
recommended that the first metre of a vertical earth 2.5.2 Dimensions
electrode should not be regarded as being effective Minimum cross sections are under consideration.
under frost conditions. For bare solid rock, only type
NOTE As an interim measure, values of national standards can
B earthing arrangement is recommended. be used.
Deep-driven earth electrodes could be effective in
special cases where the soil resistivity decreases 3 Internal lightning protection
with depth and where sub-strata of low resistivity installation
occur at depths greater than those to which rod
electrodes are normally driven. 3.0 General
2.3.5 Natural earth electrodes The internal LPI shall avoid the occurrence of
Interconnected reinforcing steel of concrete or other dangerous sparking within the structure to be
suitable underground metal structures, whose protected due to the lightning current flowing in the
characteristics comply with the requirements of external LPI.
Sub-clause 2.5, can be used as an earth electrode. Sparkings occurring between the external LPI on
When the metallic reinforcement of concrete is used the one hand and the metal installations, the
as an earth electrode, special care shall be exercised electrical and telecommunication installations
at the interconnections to prevent mechanical inside the volume to be protected, the external
splitting of the concrete. conductive parts and lines entering the structure on
NOTE In the case of prestressed concrete, consideration should the other hand, shall be considered dangerous.
be given to the consequences of the passage of lightning discharge NOTE 1 Sparking occuring within the structures with danger
currents which may produce unacceptable mechanical stresses. of explosion and fire shall be always considered dangerous.
In this case additional protective measures are required which
2.4 Clamping and joints are outside the scope of this standard.
NOTE 2 Internal LPI may be needed even when external LPI is
2.4.1 Clamping not required according to the risk of damage evaluation.
Air-terminations and down-conductors shall be NOTE 3 Sparking between electrical and telecommunication
installations and metal installations must be considered for the
firmly fixed so that electrodynamic or accidental protection of sensitive electronic equipments.
mechanical-forces (for instance vibrations, slipping In this case additional protective measures are required which
of slabs of snow, etc.) will not cause conductors to are outside the scope of this standard.
break or loosen. Dangerous sparkings may be avoided with the aid
NOTE Evaluation of the dimension of clamps is under of:
consideration.
— equipotential bonding or,
2.4.2 Joints
— insulation between the parts.
The number of joints along the conductors shall be
kept to a minimum. Joints shall be made secure by
such means as brazing, welding, crimping, screwing
or bolting.
NOTE Evaluation of dimensions of the joints is under
consideration.

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3.1 Equipotential bonding (EB) If insulated pieces inside the structure to be

protected are inserted in gas lines or water pipes,
3.1.1 General
they shall be bridged by SPD (Sub-clause 1.2.42)
Equipotentialization is achieved by interconnecting designed for the operating conditions.
the LPI with the metal framework of the structure,
3.1.3 Equipotential bonding for external
with the metal installations, with the external
conductive parts
conductive parts and with the electrical and
telecommunication installations within the For external conductive parts, EB shall be
structure to be protected. established as near to the point of entry into the
structure to be protected as possible.
Interconnecting means are:
Bonding conductors shall withstand the part of the
— bonding conductors, where the electrical
lightning current flowing through them evaluated
continuity is not provided by natural bonding;
according to Annex C.
— surge protective device (SPD), where direct NOTE SPDs are to be dimensioned according to the relevant
connections with bonding conductors are not rules (under consideration).
allowed. 3.1.4 Equipotential bonding for electrical and
NOTE 1 See also Sub-clause 413.1.2 of IEC telecommunication installations internal to
Publication 364-4-41.
NOTE 2 The manner in which this is achieved is important and
the structure to be protected
it should be discussed with the authorities concerned as there Equipotential bonding must be achieved in the
may be conflicting requirements.
points indicated in paragraph 3.1.2 a) & b).
NOTE 3 The cross section of bonding conductors and the SPD
characteristics are under consideration. If the electrical and telecommunication conductors
SPD should be installed in such a way that they can are screened or in metal conduit, it is normally
be inspected. sufficient to bond only the shields.
When an LPS is installed, metalwork external to the If the electrical and telecommunication conductors
structure to be protected may be affected. This are neither screened nor are in metal conduit they
should be considered when designing such systems. shall be bonded via SPDs. In TN systems PE or PEN
EB for external metalwork may also be necessary. conductors can be bonded directly to LPI.
3.1.2 Equipotential bonding for metal Bonding conductors and SPD shall have the same
installations characteristics as indicated in 3.1.2.
NOTE For protection of electrical and telecommunication
EB shall be carried out at the following locations: installations against overvoltages due to lightning, additional
a) in the basement or approximately at ground protective measures are required which are outside the scope of
level. Bonding conductors shall be connected to a this standard.
bonding bar constructed and installed in such a 3.1.5 Equipotential bonding for electrical and
way that it allows easy access for inspection. The telecommunication installations entering the
bonding bar shall be connected to the earth structure to be protected
termination system. For large structures, more EB for electrical and telecommunication
than one bonding bar could be installed provided installations shall be performed according to
that they are interconnected; Sub-clause 3.1.3.
b) where insulation requirements are not fulfilled If lines are screened or routed into metal conduit,
(see Sub-clause 3.2). EB for conductors is not necessary provided that the
In the case of: cross section A of these shields is not lower than the
— reinforced concrete structure with value A evaluated according to Annex D.
interconnected reinforcing steel, NOTE Unacceptable temperature rise for the insulation of the
line may occur if the lightning current relevant to the line is
— steel frame structure, greater than:
— structure with equivalent screening If = 8A for screened lines
performance, If = 8n½A½ for non-screened lines
— isolated external LPI, where:
If = lightning current flowing on screen, kA
EB shall be established only at ground level.
n½ = number of line conductors
NOTE Equipotential bonding at locations corresponding to nng
A = section of the screen, mm2
conductors which bond the down-conductors is recommended and
facilitates to achieve protection. A½ = section of each line conductor, mm2

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3.2 Isolation of the external LPI 4.2 Order of inspections

The isolation may be achieved through suitable Inspections should be made according to
separation materials or through an appropriate Sub-clause 4.1 as follows:
separation distance between the parts. — inspections during the construction of the
The separation distance d between the structure, in order to check the embedded
down-conductors on the one hand and the metal electrodes;
installations and electrical and telecommunication — inspection after the installation of the LPS
installations internal to the structure to be made according to items a) and b);
protected on the other hand, shall be not smaller
— periodically repeated inspections made
than the safety distance s.
according to items a), b) and c) at such intervals
dWs as are determined with regard to the nature of
kc the volume to be protected and the corrosion
s = k i ------- l(m) problems;
km
— additional inspections made according to
where:
items a), b) and c) after alterations or repairs, or
ki depends on the selected protection level of when it is known that the structure has been
LPS (Table 6) struck by lightning.
kc depends on the lightning current flowing on
the down-conductors (Annex E) 4.3 Maintenance
km depends on separation material Regular inspections are among the fundamental
(see Table 7) conditions for a reliable maintenance of a LPS. All
observed faults shall be repaired without delay.
l(m) is the length along the down-conductors
from the point where the proximity is to be Table 1 — Relation between protection levels
considered to the nearest equipotential and efficiency (see Sub-clause 1.4)
bonding point. Protection levels Efficiency
P E
Where the safety distance between a metal
installation (or an electrical cable) and the I 0,98
air-termination system is required, an II 0,95
approximation for s can be calculated by using the
same formula as for the safety distance from the III 0,90
nearest external down-conductor. IV 0,80
NOTE The dangerous discharges between the external LPI and
the lines or external conductive parts entering the structure
cannot be avoided by insulation. Therefore, it is always necessary
to assure the equipotential bonding (direct connection or via
SPDs) at their point of entry in the structure.
The separation materials used to isolate the
external LPI must have an impulse withstand
voltage Ui with a wave form 1/50 4s, not lower than:
Ui U 500 s [kV]

4 Maintenance and inspection of LPS

4.1 Scope of inspections
The objectives of the inspections are to ascertain
that:
a) the LPS complies with the design;
b) all components of the LPS are in good condition
and capable of performing their designed
functions, and that there is no corrosion;
c) any recently added services or constructions
are incorporated into the protected structure by
bonding or extensions to the LPS.

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Table 2 — Values of lightning parameters corresponding to protection levels

(see Sub-clause 1.5)
Protection level

Lightning parameter Symbol Unit I II III-IV

Current peak value I kA 200 150 100

Total charge Qtotal C 300 225 150
Impulse charge Qimpulse C 100 75 50
Specific energy SE kJ/7 10 000 5 600 2 500
Average steepness di/dt kA/4s 200 150 100

Table 3 — Protection angle, rolling sphere radius and mesh size according to the protection
level (see Sub-clause 2.1.2)
Protection methods

Protection levels Rolling sphere radius R Mesh size M Protective angle !

(m) (m) (°)

I 20 5×5
II 30 10 × 10 See Figure
III 45 15 × 15
IV 60 20 × 20

NOTE 1 Not applicable beyond the values marked with *. Rolling sphere and mesh methods only apply in these cases.
NOTE 2 h is the height of air-termination above the area to be protected.

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Table 4 — Minimum thickness of metal sheets Table 7 — Isolation of external LPI. Values of
or metal pipes in air-termination systems coefficient km (see Sub-clause 3.2)
(see Sub-clause 2.1.3) Material km
Thickness t
Protection level Material
(mm) Air 1
Fe 4 Solid 0,5
I to IV Cu 5
Al 7
NOTE Other thicknesses are under consideration.

Table 5 — Typical distances between

down-conductors and ring conductors
according to the protection level
(see Sub-clause 2.2.3)
Protection level Typical distances
(m)

I 10
II 15
III 20
IV 25

Table 6 — Isolation of external LPI. Values of

Figure 1 — Loop in a down-conductor
coefficient ki (see Sub-clause 3.2)
(see Sub-clause 2.2.4)
Protection level ki

I 0,1
II 0,075
III and IV 0,05

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Figure 2 — Minimum length l1 of earth electrodes according to the protection levels

(see Sub-clauses 2.3.2 and 2.3.3). Levels III and IV are independent of soil resistivity

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Annex A (normative)
Parameters of lightning current
A.1 Statistical distribution
Lightning parameters are usually obtained from measurements taken on high object. For the purposes of
this standard it is assumed that these parameters are valid for structures below 60 m too.
The statistical distribution of the recorded lightning parameters can be assumed to have a logarithmic
normal distribution. On this basis the probability of occurrence of any value of each parameter can be
calculated from the values given in Figure A.1.
The polarity ratio of lightnings is a function of the territory. If no local information is available, 10 %
positive and 90 % negative lightnings should be assumed.
The values reported in this standard are based on a polarity ratio of 10 % positive and 90 % negative
lightnings.
A.2 Lightning current parameters used for dimensioning lightning protection systems (LPS)
The mechanical effects of lightning are related to the peak value of the current (I) and to the specific energy
(SE); the thermal effects are related to the specific energy (SE) when resistive coupling is involved and to
the total charge (Qtotal) or impulse charge (Qimpulse) when arcs develop to the installation.
The highest values of these parameters occur in positive lightnings.
The dangerous sparking caused by inductive coupling is related to the steepness of the lightning current
front. In this standard the average steepness between 30 % and 90 % values of the peak current is used for
design purposes. The highest value of this parameter occurs in subsequent negative strokes. Such negative
strokes occur in almost all negative lightnings to a structure.
Provided that 10 % of positive and 90 % of negative lightnings is assumed, the assumed values of
parameters for protection level I have a 99 % probability that they will not be exceeded.
Each of the single parameter (I, Qtotal, Qimpulse, SE, T) tends to dominate each failure mechanism. This is to
be taken into account in establishing test procedures.

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First Subsequent
Scale of Positive Negative Positive
Parameter negative negative
abscissa stroke flash flash
stroke strokes
I kA ) *w +w

Qtotal C , -w

Qimpulse C . / 0w

W/R kJ/7 1 2 3w

di/dtmax kA/4s 4 5 6w

di/dt30/90 % kA/4s 7w

Figure A.1 — Cumulative frequency distribution of lightning parameters

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Annex B (normative)
Positioning of the air-termination system
B.1 Positioning of the air-termination system when utilizing the protective angle method
The position is adequate if the structure to be protected is fully situated within the volume protected by the
air-termination system.
Volume protected by vertical rod air-termination system
The volume protected by a vertical rod is assumed to have the shape of a right circular cone with the vertex
placed on the air-termination axis, semi-apex angle ! depending on the protection level and on the height
of the air-termination system as given in Table 3.
Examples of the protected volume are given in Figure B.1.
Volume protected by wire air-termination system
The volume protected by a wire is defined by the composition of the volumes protected by the virtual
vertical rods having vertexes on the wire.
Examples of the protected volume are given in Figure B.2.
Volume protected by mesh air-termination system
The volume protected by a mesh is defined by the combination of the protected volume determined by the
single conductors forming the mesh.
Examples of the volume protected by a mesh air-termination system are given in Figure B.3.
B.2 Positioning the air-termination system when utilizing the rolling sphere method
Applying this method, the positioning of the air-termination system is adequate if no point of the volume
to be protected comes into contact with a sphere with radius R depending on the protection level (Table 3),
rolling on the ground, around and on top of the structure in all possible directions.
Therefore, the sphere will have to touch only the ground and/or the air-termination system
(see Figure B.4).
B.3 Positioning of the air-termination system when utilizing the mesh method
For the purposes of protecting flat surfaces, a mesh is considered as providing protection for the whole
surface, if the following conditions are fulfilled:
a) air-termination conductors are positioned on:
— roof edge lines
— roof overhangs
— roof ridge lines, if the roof sloop
exceeds 1/10;
b) the lateral surfaces of the structure at levels higher than the value of the radius of the relevant rolling
sphere (see Table 3), is equipped with air-termination systems;
c) the mesh dimensions of the air-termination network are not greater than the values given in Table 3;
d) the network of the air-termination system is accomplished in such a way that the lightning current
will always encounter at least two distinct metal routes to the earth termination;
e) no metal installation protrudes outside the volume protected by air-termination systems;
f) the air-termination conductors follow as far as possible short and direct routes.

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Figure B.1 — Volume protected by a vertical rod air-termination system

Figure B.2 — Volume protected by a wire

air-termination system

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Figure B.3 — Volume protected by a mesh air-termination system

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Figure B.4 — Design of the LPS air-termination according to the “rolling sphere” method.
Air-termination conductors are installed on all points and segments which are in contact with
the “rolling sphere”. The “rolling sphere” radius should comply with the selected
protection level

Annex C (normative)
Lightning current flowing through external conductive parts and installations
entering the structure
When finding a route to earth, the lightning current divides itself between the earth termination system,
the external conductive parts and the entering lines directly or via SPD connected to them.
The part If of the lightning current relevant to each external conductive part or line depends on their
number, their equivalent earth resistance and on the equivalent earth resistance of the earth termination
system.
Z⋅I
I f = ---------------------------
n1 ⋅ Z + Z1
where:
Z = equivalent earth resistance of the earth termination system
Z1 = equivalent earth resistance of the external parts or lines (Table C.1)
n1 = overall number of external parts or lines
I = lightning current relevant to the considered protection level (Clause 1.5 Table 2)

If electrical and telecommunication lines are unscreened, or not routed in metal conduit, each conductor
carries a part of lightning current equal to If/n½, n½ being the total number of line conductors.

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Table C.1 — Equivalent earth resistance values Z and Z1 according to the resistivity of the soil
Equivalent Earth Resistance related to Protection Levels

@ (7 m) Z1 (7) Z (7)

I II III-IV

100 8 4 4 4
200 13 6 6 6
500 16 10 10 10
1 000 22 10 15 20
2 000 28 10 15 40
3 000 35 10 15 60

Annex D (normative)
Minimum cross section of the screen for the self-protection of a cable
The overvoltages between the active conductors and the screen of a cable due to the lightning current
carried by the screen, depend on the material and on the dimensions of the screen, on the length and the
positioning of the cable.
The minimum value Amin of the section of the screen for which the cable is self-protected is given by:
6
I f ⋅ @ c ⋅ l c 10 2
- [ mm ]
A min = --------------------------------
Uc
where:
If = current flowing on the screen in kA
@c = resistivity of the screen in 7m
lc = cable length in m (Table D.1)
Uc = impulse withstand voltage of the cable in kV (Table D.2)

Table D.1 — Cable length to be considered according to the condition of the screen
Condition of the screen lc

in contact with a soil having resistivity @ (7m) lc k 8 @

isolated from the soil or in air lc = distance between the structure and the closest
earthing point of the screen

Table D.2 — Impulse withstand voltage (kV) of the

cable insulation for different rated voltages
Rated Voltage Uc

(kV) (kV)

k 0,05 5
0,22 15
10 75
15 95
20 125

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Annex E (normative)
Partitioning of the lightning current amongst down-conductors
The partitioning coefficient kc of the lightning current amongst the down-conductors depends on the overall
number n and on the position of the down-conductors and of the interconnecting ring conductors, on the
type of air-termination system and on the type of earth termination system as in Table E.1:
Table E.1 — Values of coefficient kc
Type of earth termination system

Type of air termination A B

system
(down-conductors not (down-conductors
connected at ground level) connected at ground level)

Single rod 1 1
Wire 1 See Figure E.1
Mesh 1 See Figure E.2

Figure E.1 — Values of coefficient kc in the case of a wire air-termination system and type B
earth termination system

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NOTE For a detailed evaluation of coefficient kc values, Figure E.3 and Figure E.4 apply.
Figure E.2 — Values of coefficient kc in the case of a mesh air-termination system and type B
earth termination system

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Figure E.3 — Values of coefficient kc in the case of mesh air-termination systems,

interconnecting ring of the down-conductors and type B earth termination system

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Figure E.4 — Examples of the calculation of the safety distance in the case of mesh
air-termination system, interconnecting ring of the down-conductors and type B
earth termination system

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Annex F (normative)
Selection of protection level for LPS
F.1 Introduction
The assessment of the risk of damage by lightnings to a structure aims to help the lightning protection
design engineer in the decision whether or not the protection of the structure is recommended and if it is,
to select the proper measures of protection.
Damages to a structure and to its contents may be caused by direct lightnings or by indirect lightnings.
Damages depend on the characteristics of the structure among which the most important are:
— nature of the construction material;
— contents and destination;
— services entering to the structure;
— measures for damage limitation.
Moreover, the damage itself may be limited to a part of the structure or may be extended to the whole
structure and even may involve the surroundings or the environment.
The consequential effects of lightning for various type of common structures are reported in Table F.1.
The damages caused by lightning may be of different types:
a) injury or loss of the human life;
b) unacceptable loss of services to the public;
c) loss of irreplaceable cultural heritage;
d) losses not involving human, cultural and social values.
If one of the first three types of damage appear in the structure, the decision whether or not to provide
protective measures should be taken by a comparison of the actual value of frequency of damage to the
structure with the limit value fixed by National Committees or responsible Authorities.
If damage does not involve human, cultural and environmental values, the decision whether or not to
provide protective measures may be taken on the basis of purely economical convenience by comparing the
annual cost of the protective measures to the probable amount of annual cost of expected losses due to
lightning.
Due to the involved parameters, a thorough risk analysis is needed to support such a decision and to
determine the proper protection level.
Being the risk analysis procedure under consideration, this Annex gives a first step guide-line for the
selection of protection level for LPS, when only direct lightnings are considered.
F.2 Procedure for selection of protection level of LPS
F.2.1 General
The purpose of selecting an adequate level is to reduce, below the maximum tolerable level, the risk of
damage by a direct lightning to a structure.
The selection of the adequate protection level for the LPS to be provided can be based on the expected
frequency Nd of direct lightnings to the structure to be protected and on the accepted annual frequency Nc
of lightnings.
F.2.2 Lightning to ground density
The lightning to ground density expressed in terms of lightnings to ground per square kilometer per year
should be determined by measurement, through a lightning location network.
If lightning to ground density Ng is not available, it may be estimated by using the following relationship:

Ng = 0,04 T 1.25
d per km2 per year

where:
Td is the number of thunderstorm days per year obtained from isoceraunic maps
NOTE The relationship varies with changes in climatic conditions.

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The following Table gives examples of Ng as function of Td:

Td (Y–1) 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
Ng (km–2 y–1) 0,3 0,7 1,2 1,7 2,2 2,8 3,4 4,0 4,7

F.2.3 Expected frequency Nd of direct lightnings to a structure

The average annual frequency Nd of direct lightnings to a structure can be assessed from:
Nd = Ng · Ae · Ce 10–6 per year

in which:
Ng is the average annual lightning to ground density, in lightnings per square kilometer per year,
concerning the region where the structure is located;
Ae is the equivalent collection area of the isolated structure (m2);
Ce is the environmental coefficient.
The equivalent collection area of a structure is defined as an area of ground surface which has the same
annual frequency of direct lightnings as the structure.
For isolated structures the equivalent collection area Ae is the area enclosed within the border line b
obtained from the intersection between the ground surface and a straight line with 1/3 slope which passes
from the upper parts of the structure (touching it there) and rotating around it (see Figure F.1).
For an isolated rectangular structure of length L, width W and height H, the collection area is then equal to:
Ae = LW + 6H (L + W) + 9Ï H2
Topography of the site and surroundings objects located within a distance of 3H from the structure
significantly influence its collection area; this influence is taken into account by the environmental
coefficient Ce (Table F.2).
NOTE 1 When the collection area of a structure fully covers the collection area of another one, this last is not taken into account.
NOTE 2 When the collection areas of several structures overlap, the corresponding common areas are only considered one.
NOTE 3 Only those objects which have permanent durability and adequate resistance against lightning stresses shall be taken into
account.
In any case a minimum value of the equivalent collection area is to be assumed equal to the horizontal
projection of the structure itself.
NOTE Other more sophisticated methods are available and can be used for a more precise evaluation of the equivalent collection
area.
F.2.4 Tolerable frequency of lightnings Nc to the structure
The values of Nc are the responsibility of National Committees where human, cultural and social losses are
involved.
The values of Nc may be established by the owner of the structure or by the designer of the LPS where losses
are relevant to private property only.
The values of Nc may be estimated through the analysis of the risk of damage taking into account
appropriate factors such as:
— type of construction;
— presence of flammable and explosive substances;
— measures provided to reduce the consequential effects of lightning;
— number of people concerned by the damage;
— type and importance of the public service concerned;
— value of goods having suffered damage;
— other factors (see Table F.1).
NOTE Local regulations may impose values of Nc in particular cases.

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F.3 Procedure for selection of LPS

The value of the tolerable frequency of lightnings to the structure Nc shall be compared to the actual value
of frequency of lightnings Nd to the structure.
This comparison allows a decision to be made as to whether and LPS is necessary, and if so, of what type.
If Nd < Nc, the LPS is not needed.
N
If Nd > Nc, an LPS of efficiency E U 1 – -------c should be installed and the proper protection level selected
Nd
according to Table 1.
After the computation of E, the protection level is deduced from:
E > 0,98 Level I + additional protective measures
0,95 < E k 0,98 Level I
0,90 < E k 0,95 Level II
0,80 < E k 0,90 Level III
0 < E k 0,80 Level IV
Ek0 No protection needed

The design of an LPS shall meet the requirements given in the standard for the selected protection level.
If an LPS of efficiency E½ lower than E is installed, additional measures of protection shall be provided.
Additional protective measures are for instance:
— measures limiting touch and step voltages;
— measures limiting fire propagation;
— measures to mitigate the effects of lightning-induced overvoltages on the sensitive equipments.
More detailed explanation of LPS selection procedure is given in the flow diagram of Figure F.2.
Critical values of required efficiency, E, of the LPS, as a function of the direct lightning frequency Nd to the
structure, and tolerable lightnings frequency Nc are shown in Figure F.3.

© BSI 03-2000 31
ENV 61024-1:1995

Table F.1 — Consequential effects of lightning

Classification of
Type of structure Effects of lightning
structures

Dwelling-house Puncture of electrical installations, fire and material damage

Damage normally limited to objects exposed to the point of strike
or to the lightning path
Farm Primary risk of fire and hazardous step voltages
Secondary risk due to loss of electric power, and life hazard to
livestock due to failure of electronic control of ventilation and food
supply systems, etc.
Common Theatre Damage to the electrical installations (e.g. electric lighting) likely
structures School to cause panic
(see note) Department store
Sports area Failure of fire alarms resulting in delayed fire fighting measures
Bank insurance As above, plus problems resulting from loss of communication,
company failure of computers and loss of data
Commercial
company, etc.
Hospital As above, plus problems of people in intensive care, and the
Nursing home difficulties of rescuing immobile people
Prison
Industry Additional effects depending on the contents of factories, ranging
from minor to unacceptable damage and loss of production
Museums and Loss of irreplaceable cultural heritage
archaeological
sites
NOTE Sensitive electronic equipment might be installed in all type of structures, which can be easily damaged by overvoltages
due to lightning.

Table F.2 — Determination of environmental coefficient Ce

Relative location of the structure Ce

Structure located in a large area of structures or trees of the same or greater height (tower, 0,25
forest)
Structure surrounded by smaller structures 0,5
Isolated structure: no other structures or objects within a distance of 3H from the structure 1
Isolated structure on a hilltop or a knoll 2

32 © BSI 03-2000
 ENV 61024-1:1995

Figure F.1 — Equivalent collection area of a structure in flat country

© BSI 03-2000 33
ENV 61024-1:1995

Figure F.2 — Flow diagram for LPS selection procedure

34 © BSI 03-2000
© BSI 03-2000

EN 61024-1:1995
Figure F.3 — Critical values of required efficiency of LPS as a function of Nd and No
35
ENV 61024-1:1995

Annex ZA (normative)
Normative references to international publications with their corresponding
European publications
This European Prestandard incorporates by dated or undated reference, provisions from other
publications. These normative references are cited at the appropriate places in the text and the
publications are listed hereafter. For dated references, subsequent amendments to or revisions of any of
these publications apply to this European Prestandard only when incorporated in it by amendment or
revision. For undated references the latest edition of the publication referred to applies (including
amendments).
NOTE When an international publication has been modified by common modifications, indicated by (mod), the relevant EN/HD
applies.
Publication Year Title EN/HD Year

IEC 50(826) 1982 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) HD 384.2 S1 1986

Chapter 826: Electrical installations of buildings
IEC 364-4-41 1982a Electrical installations of buildings — —
Part 4: Protection for safety
Chapter 41: Protection against electric shock
a
IEC 364-4-41:1977, mod. was harmonized as HD 384.4.41 S1:1980.

36 © BSI 03-2000
 DD ENV 61024-1:1995

List of references

See national foreword.

© BSI 03-2000
DD ENV
61024-1:1995
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