FIRE

SAFETY IN
BUILDINGS

TECHNICAL NOTE
Lightning Arrester
FIRE SAFETY IN BUILDINGS

TECHNICAL NOTE NO. 29

LIGHTNING PROTECTION

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GENERAL CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................ 7
2 AIM ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
3 APPLICATION .......................................................................................................................................... 7
4 LIGHTNING PROTECTION AND PREVENTION .......................................................................................... 8
5 DEFINITION OF AN LPS ...................................................................................................................... 9
6 SPECIFIC PHASES FOR PROTECTION AND PREVENTION INSTALLATIONS ................................................ 1 1
6.1 Risk analysis and assessment 11
6.2 Project (TS-technical study) 19
7 DIRECT LIGHTNING PROTECTION ..................................................................................................... 19
8 PREVENTION SYSTEMS ..................................................................................................................... 20
9 INTERNAL LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM ..................................................................................... 21
10 LPS MAINTENANCE AND ROUTINE CHECKS ........................................................................................ 21
10.1 Verification and Maintenance Routine 22
10.2 Documentation 24
11 LEGISLATIVE AND NORMATIVE REFERENCES ..................................................................................... 25
12 ANNEXES ...................................................................................................................................................... 30
12.1 ANNEX A.1 - GLOSSARY 30
12.2 ANNEX A.2 - PHYSICS OF LIGHTNING PHENOMENA 33
12.3 ANNEX A.3 - RISK ANALYSIS 44
12.4 ANNEX A.4 - SIMPLIFIED RISK ANALYSIS 48
12.5 ANNEX A.5 - DIRECT LIGHTNING PROTECTION INSTALLATIONS 50
[Link] Capture by natural components 55
12.5.2 Isolated LPS 56
12.5.3 Lateral lightning 56
12.5.4 Capture and down conductors 57
[Link] Number of down conductors 59
[Link] Non-insulated LPS 60
[Link] Isolated LPS 61
[Link] Down conductor route 61
[Link] Natural components 62
[Link] Down conductors mechanical protection 62
[Link] Removable connector 62
[Link] Sensitive buildings 63
12.5.5 Separation distance 63
12.5.6 Earthing network 65
12.5.7 LPS components: the NP EN 62561 and CLC TS 50703 series of standards 67
12.5.8 People's Protection 68
12.5.9 Equipotential Bonding 70
12.5.10 Lightning strike counter 72
12.6 ANNEX A.6 - DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AN LPS USING A LID (NP4426) AND AN LPS WITH SINGLE ROD LIGHTNING ARRESTER
(NP EN 62305-3) 72
12.7 ANNEX A.7 - INTERNAL LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM 73
12.7.1 Surge protection through equipotential bonding 73
12.7.2 Equipotential bonding systems 74
[Link] What to equipotentialize 75
[Link] Requirements for equipotential bonding: 76
[Link] Equipotential bonding according to IEC 60364-4-41 and IEC 60364-5-54 76

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[Link] Potentially explosive areas 77
12.7.3 Surge protection system for power supply systems 77
[Link] Types of overvoltage 77
[Link] Transient overvoltages 77
[Link] Temporary and permanent overvoltages 77
[Link] Overvoltages of atmospheric origin (LEMP: Lightning Electromagnetic Pulse) 78
[Link] Switching operations (SEMP: Switching electromagnetic pulse) 78
[Link] Static discharges (ESD: Electrostatic discharge) 78
12.7.4 Protection against transient overvoltages of atmospheric origin 78
[Link] Concept of lightning protection zone 79
[Link] Advantages of the lightning protection zone concept 79
[Link] Type/class of surge protection devices 80
[Link] Type 1 and combined Type 1 + 2 surge arresters 80
[Link] Type 2 surge arresters 81
[Link] Type 3 surge arresters 81
[Link] Choice of surge protection devices 82
[Link] Sizing of Type 1 arresters 82
[Link] Protection level (Up) of surge arresters 84
[Link] Coordination of surge arresters 84
[Link] Installation rules 86
[Link] Protection against SPD failures 87
[Link] Protection circuit 89
12.7.5 Surge protection systems for information and data technologies. 91
[Link] Basic principles 91
[Link] Protection principle 91
[Link] Data and information technology standards 91
[Link] Comparison of protection systems 92
[Link] Topologies 92
[Link] Interference with information technology systems 94
[Link] Galvanic coupling 95
[Link] Inductive coupling 96
[Link] Capacitive coupling 98
[Link] Building and shielding an area 99
[Link] Conductor shielding 100
[Link] Protection of telecommunications equipment 100
[Link] Installation of data cable protection devices 101
[Link] Other means of surge protection for telecommunications systems 101
[Link] Surge protection for potentially explosive areas 101
[Link] Telecommunications 102
[Link] Coaxial overvoltage protection devices with gas discharge protector 103
[Link] Protectors with Lambda/4 technology 103
[Link] Satellite systems according to IEC/EN 60728-11 103
[Link] Some useful explanations 104
[Link] ITED structured network layout 106

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INDEX OF FIGURES
FIGURE 1 - PROCEDURES FOR DEFINING AN LPS 10
FIGURE 2 - SCHEMATIC REPRESENTATION OF THE COMPONENTS OF THE LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM 20 FIGURE 3 -
THUNDERCLOUD AND THE ELECTRIC FIELD IT CREATES ON THE GROUND 35
FIGURE 4 - NEGATIVE DOWNWARD TRACER 35
FIGURE 5 - UPWARD POSITIVE TRACER OF A TALL STRUCTURE 35
FIGURE 6 - NEGATIVE UPWARD TRACER OF A TALL STRUCTURE 35
FIGURE 7 - POSITIVE DOWNWARD TRACER 35
FIGURE 8 - LIGHTNING WAVEFORM IN THE LABORATORY 39
FIGURE 9 - ROLLING BALL METHOD 43
FIGURE 10 - PROTECTION RADIUS OF A SINGLE ROD 51
FIGURE 11 - EXAMPLE OF A FRANKLIN TIP PROTECTING A ROOF ELEMENT AND PROTECTION ANGLES DEPENDING ON HEIGHT 51
FIGURE 12 - MESH CAGE 52
FIGURE 13 - EXAMPLE OF A GUARD CABLE ON A STRUCTURE 53
FIGURE 14 - PROTECTION RADIUS (ASSUMING H1 ≥ 5 M) 54
FIGURE 15 - EXAMPLE OF AN INSULATED SYSTEM WITH GUARD CABLES 61
FIGURE 16 - PRINCIPLE OF SEPARATION DISTANCE 64
FIGURE 17 - TYPE A EARTHING SYSTEM 66
FIGURE 18 - TYPE B EARTHING SYSTEM 66
FIGURE 19 - MINIMUM LENGTH OF EACH EARTHING ELECTRODE ACCORDING TO LIDS PROTECTION LEVEL AND SOIL RESISTIVITY 67
FIGURE 20 - EQUIPOTENTIAL SYSTEM IN A BUILDING 76
FIGURE 21 - SUBDIVIDING A BUILDING INTO PROTECTION ZONES 79
FIGURE 22 - TYPICAL ELECTRIC CURRENT DISTRIBUTION OF A LIGHTNING STRIKE 83
FIGURE 23 - EXAMPLE OF SPD CASCADE TYPE 86
FIGURE 24 - 50CM RULE 87
FIGURE 25 - PROTECTION CIRCUIT 89
FIGURE 26 - BUS TOPOLOGY 93
FIGURE 27 - STAR TOPOLOGY 93
FIGURE 28 - RING TOPOLOGY 94
FIGURE 29 - GALVANIC COUPLING 96
FIGURE 30 - INDUCTIVE COUPLING RESULTING FROM A LIGHTNING STRIKE 97
FIGURE 31 - CAPACITIVE COUPLING BY PARALLEL CABLES 97
FIGURE 32 - INDUCTION IN A RING CONDUCTOR 98
FIGURE 33 - CAPACITIVE COUPLING DUE TO DIRECT IMPACT 99
FIGURE 34 - CIRCUIT DIAGRAM 102
FIGURE 35 - EXAMPLE OF TWO BUILDINGS WITH CVM, PIPE INSTALLATION IN TWO DIFFERENT LAYOUTS, WITH AND WITHOUT UPPER ATE
107

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE I - RISK CATEGORIES FOR USE-TYPE I "HOUSING" 13
TABLE II - RISK CATEGORIES FOR TYPE-USE II "PARKING LOTS" 13
TABLE III - RISK CATEGORIES OF USE-TYPE III "CLERKS" 14
TABLE IV - RISK CATEGORIES UT IV "SCHOOLS" AND V "HOSPITALS AND NURSING HOMES" 14
TABLE V - RISK CATEGORIES FOR UT VI "PUBLIC SHOWS AND GATHERINGS" AND IX "SPORTS AND LEISURE" 15
TABLE VI - RISK CATEGORIES FOR STANDARD USE VII "HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS" 16
TABLE VII - RISK CATEGORIES FOR USE-TYPE VIII "COMMERCIAL AND TRANSPORT HUBS" 16
TABLE VIII - RISK CATEGORIES FOR USE-TYPE X "MUSEUMS AND ART GALLERIES" 17
TABLE IX - RISK CATEGORIES FOR USE-TYPE XI "LIBRARIES AND ARCHIVES" 17
TABLE X - RISK CATEGORIES OF USE-TYPE XII "INDUSTRIAL, WORKSHOPS AND WAREHOUSES" 18
TABLE XI - TYPICAL TOLERABLE RISK RT VALUES 46
TABLE XII - MAXIMUM LIGHTNING IMPULSE CURRENT ASSOCIATED WITH A LIGHTNING PROTECTION LEVEL 47
TABLE XIII - MINIMUM LIGHTNING IMPULSE CURRENT ASSOCIATED WITH A LIGHTNING PROTECTION LEVEL 47
TABLE XIV - PROBABILITY OF LIGHTNING CURRENTS 47
TABLE XV - TYPE OF HAZARD FOR PEOPLE 48
TABLE XVI - MAXIMUM MESH SIZE 52
TABLE XVII - MATERIAL, CONFIGURATION, SECTION, DIAMETERS AND THICKNESSES OF CAPTURE CONDUCTORS, PASSIVE AIR CAPTURE
TIPS, EARTHING ELECTRODE AND DOWN CONDUCTORS 58
TABLE XVIII - USUAL DISTANCE BETWEEN POWER SUPPLIES IN A CAGE/MESH 60
TABLE XIX - MINIMUM DIMENSIONS OF CONDUCTORS BONDED TO DIFFERENT EQUIPOTENTIAL BONDING BARS OR BETWEEN
EQUIPOTENTIAL BONDING BARS AND EARTHING 71
TABLE XX - MINIMUM DIMENSIONS OF THE BODING CONDUCTORS BETWEEN THE INTERNAL METAL ELEMENTS AND THE MAIN
REMOVABLE CONNECTOR 71
TABLE XXI - DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AN LPS USING A LID (NP4426) AND AN LPS WITH A SINGLE-ROD LIGHTNING ARRESTER 72
TABLE XXII - TRANSITION ZONES 84
TABLE XXIII - SIZE OF FUSES/SURGE ARRESTERS 88
TABLE XXIV - QUICK GUIDE TO CHOOSING SPD IN DIFFERENT SITUATIONS 90
TABLE XXV - COMPARISON OF PROTECTION SYSTEMS 92
TABLE XXVI - TYPICAL INSULATION VOLTAGE VALUES 94

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1 INTRODUCTION

A lightning arrester is a safety installation designed to protect buildings and premises from
the effects of atmospheric discharges.

The Technical Regulation on Fire Safety in Buildings, published by Ministerial Order no.
135/2020, of June 2nd (current wording of Ministerial Order no. 1532/2008, of December 29th),
establishes in article 191st the mandatory installation of lightning arresters in buildings, in
accordance with the provisions of this regulation, which are transcribed below:

Article 191st - Lightning arrester installations

Buildings for which atmospheric discharges pose a significant fire risk must be equipped
with a lightning arrester installation in accordance with the applicable technical criteria.

The purpose of this Technical Note is to establish the technical criteria for complying with
this regulatory provision.

2 AIM
Supporting the authors of projects, self-protection measures and all those involved in
complying with the regulations on the installation of lightning arresters in the planning,
construction, installation and maintenance phases, listing and describing the various types
of lightning protection systems (LPS), their characteristics and specifications.

3 APPLICATION
In the design, installation, maintenance and inspection phase of the lightning protection
system (LPS) to comply with the applicable standards and technical specifications.
The fire safety project must define compliance with the requirements set out in Tables I to X,
i.e. the obligations to install the LPS, the level of protection I to IV and the frequency of visual
checks and complete maintenance.
The electrotechnical specialty project develops the design of the LPS, and may alter the
prescription of these obligations through performance, determining the LPS's level of
protection using the risk analysis method set out in ANNEXES A.3 and A.4,

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 and therefore the corresponding intervals for visual checks and full maintenance.
Regarding the installation of the LPS, under the terms of no. 1 of Article 5 th of Decree-Law
no. 220/2008, of November 12th, as amended by Law no. 123/2019, of October 18th, the ANEPC
is responsible for:
a) Assessing the fire safety project:
Checking that the safety project defines compliance with the requirements set out in
Tables I to X, i.e. the obligation to install the LPS, the level of protection from I to IV and
the frequency of visual checks and complete maintenance;

b) The inspection to be carried out, pursuant to article 18 of Decree-Law no. 220/2008, of

November 12th, as amended by Law no. 123/2019, of October 18th:
Checking that the LPS provided for in the fire safety project and in the electrical
engineering specialty project that dimensioned the system has been installed, confirming
that the project manager or the project supervision manager has signed the term of
responsibility, in which he must declare that the SCIE conditions have been met;

c) Regular or extraordinary inspection, under the terms of article 19th of Decree-Law no.
220/2008, of November 12th, as amended by Law no. 123/2019, of October 18th:
During inspections, compliance with the maintenance and checks provided for in the
approved Self-Protection Measures must be verified through the technicians' reports,
filed in the safety records, also checking the up-to-date registration with the ANEPC of
the entities carrying out the installations and maintenance.

4 LIGHTNING PROTECTION AND PREVENTION

The protection against lightning strikes (LS) of a building/enclosure is achieved by means of
a lightning protection system (LPS) consisting of external protection of the
building/enclosure (ELPS) (capture, down conductors, earthing and equipotential bonding)
and an internal protection (ILPS) (shielding, surge protectors, conductor circulation, distance
between the external LPS and circuits inside the structure).
The LPS is defined by its effectiveness, characterized by its "protection level", which ranges
from I to IV, with level I being the most effective.

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 Information on protection levels is given in section 6.2 of this Technical
Note.

To define the level of protection, a "lightning risk analysis" technique is used. Once the level
of protection required for the building/enclosure has been defined, it is possible to position
the arresting devices using the electrogeometric model, or another simplified method based
on it, the number of down conductors, the earthing, and the Type 1 surge protectors. Type 1
surge protectors that provide equipotential bonding between the electrical/electronic
networks entering the structure, Type 2 surge protectors (if required) that protect the
equipment.
Some general information on lightning strikes is provided in ANNEX A.2.

5 DEFINITION OF AN LPS

A lightning protection system includes two complementary protection and prevention

systems, which are described below:

The function of the external protection system is to capture lightning strikes that would
otherwise have hit the building or structure, as well as to make the electrical currents flow
towards the earth without causing damage when they penetrate the interior of the volume
to be protected.

The function of the internal protection system is to protect indoor electrical installations and
equipment, as well as people, against conducted or induced overvoltages and potential
surges. The basic element of this internal system is called a surge arrester, which can be of
the T1, T2 or T3 type and must be installed as described in sections [Link] and [Link] of this
Technical Note.

Local preventive systems - Thunderstorm Warning System (TWS), which are a device or
group of devices, or detection networks (LLS), have the function of detecting and informing
people in advance of a possible event related to lightning strikes, close to the
building/premises (from 10 to 30 minutes, for example), allowing people to move to a safe
place, a dangerous process to be interrupted or emergency services to be put in place.

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The definition of an LPS for a building/premises must comply with the following phases and
procedures:

1. A lightning risk assessment (LRA): see tables I to X in item 6 of this document.

2. A technical study (TS): depending on the results of the lightning risk assessment, the
preventive measures and protection devices are defined, as well as their location and the
methods for checking and maintaining them.

Identify the structure to be protected

(size, environmental characteristics, discharge density, etc.)

Identify the types of losses

(human life, public service, cultural heritage) and risk assessment for each
loss

Risk
NO > YES
Tolerable risk

Structure protected for Installation of protection

this type of loss measures that are suitable
to decrease this type of loss

Installation of economic
impacts of a protection
comparing with the cost of
total loss with and without
protection measures.

It is appropriate to adopt
protection measures YES

Cost without
≥
Cost with
It is not appropriate to
adopt protection NO
measures

FIGURE 1 - PROCEDURES FOR DEFINING AN LPS

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6 SPECIFIC PHASES FOR PROTECTION AND PREVENTION INSTALLATIONS
All the specific phases of a protection and prevention installation must be the subject of a
written document. All the documents from all the phases will form the identification
document for the installation.

6.1 Risk analysis and assessment

The decision to equip a building/premises with a lightning protection or prevention system
and its effects, as well as the effectiveness of the system to be installed, is based on an
analysis of the risk inherent in the possible effects of a lightning strike.

To carry out this analysis, the assessment method of the NP EN 62303-2 standard is used. In
some situations, other simplified methods based on the latter can be used, which will be
described below. Tables I to X show the LRA obligation according to the building's
classification under Decree-Law no. 220/2008, of November 12th, in its current wording,
which establishes the legal framework for fire safety in buildings and characterizes
buildings according to their type-use and risk category.

For buildings/premises where the fire risk is not high or where the fire risk is high and the
panic risk is low (less than 100 people and building/premises with less than two floors), a
simplified method can be used.

The reference protection level to be considered according to the type of building/enclosure

will be as shown in Tables I to X.
If the calculated level of risk is higher than the level of risk shown in tables I to X, the level
of protection to be considered will be that of the risk calculation.
The risk assessment method is described in ANNEX A.3 and the simplified
method is described in ANNEX A.4.

The following tables indicate when an LPS is mandatory and how it should be defined
according to the risk category of the standard use determined by columns 1, 2 and 3.

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In the "Reference protection level" column:

• "SO" - LPS is not mandatory

• Roman letter number - LPS is mandatory and its reference protection level is indicated by
the number if there is no LRA.
• If the LRA indicates lower protection values, these may be applied if duly justified with a
document showing the parameters used for the calculation.

In the "mandatory LRA" column:

• "YES" - LS risk assessment is mandatory

• "NO" - LS risk assessment is not mandatory

Notes:
1- When the "mandatory LRA" column is marked "NO", this means that the LPS is not mandatory and it is up to the
project designer and building owner to decide whether it is necessary and, if so, to determine the LPS's level of
protection.
2- When a risk assessment is mandatory and a reference risk level is indicated in the corresponding
column, if the calculated risk level is higher than the one indicated, the calculated level should be used.
3- Risk level = Protection level.

4- When a building is covered by two different boards, with different requirements regarding the
installation of an LPS, the more demanding situation will be used.
Example: residential building less than 50 m high (mandatory LRA and LPS reference risk level=IV) with
administrative services (mandatory LRA and LPS reference risk level=III) the risk/protection level to be
used will be III.
4-Within the interval of complete maintenance, visual checks should be carried out every 6 months.
5-The simplified method is a method that is based on NP EN62305-2, but can only be used, as described
in the method, if the building/premises complies with the conditions: the fire risk is not high, or the fire
risk is high and the panic risk is low (less than 100 people and building/premises with less than two
floors). Otherwise, it is mandatory to use the full method (NP EN 62305-2). When the simplified method
is used, an explanation of the parameters used must appear in the risk assessment report.

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 TABLE I – Risk categories for use type I “Housing”

Full
Criteria for type-use I LPS definition maintenance
intervals
Category
No. of floors occupied by Interval between
Height of Mandatory Reference
TU I below the reference maintenances for
TU I LRA protection
plane (*) the indicated level
level
(years)
1st ≤9m ≤1 NO SO SO
2nd ≤ 28 m ≤3 YES SO SO
3rd ≤ 50 m ≤5 YES IV 2 a)
4th > 50 m >5 YES IV 2 a)

(*) Floors intended exclusively for technical installations and equipment that only involve the presence of
people for maintenance and repair purposes, and/or which have sanitary facilities, are not taken into account.

a) if the value obtained from the risk calculation is higher than the reference risk, the frequency of
maintenance must be in line with the calculated risk value (level I and II every year; level III and IV every two
years).

TABLE II - Risk categories for use type II Parking Lots"

Full
Criteria for type II use maintenance
LPS definition
(when integrated into a building) intervals

Outdoors
Category No. of floors Interval
occupied by TU II between
Gross area Level of
Height below the Mandatory maintenance
occupied by TU II protection
of TU II reference LRA for the
reference
plane (*) indicated
protection
level (years)
- YES NO SO SO
1st
≤9m ≤ 3 200m2 ≤1 NO NO SO SO
2nd ≤ 28 m ≤ 9 000m2 ≤3 NO YES SO SO

3rd ≤ 28 m ≤ 32 000m2 ≤5 NO YES III 2 a)

4th > 28 m > 32 000 m2 >5 NO YES III 2 a)

(*) Floors intended exclusively for technical installations and equipment that only involve the presence of
people for maintenance and repair purposes, and/or which have sanitary facilities, are not taken into account.

a) if the value obtained from the risk calculation is higher than the reference risk, the frequency of
maintenance must be in line with the calculated risk value (level I and II every year; level III and IV every two
years).

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 TABLE III - Risk categories for use type III "Administrative Staff

Criteria for type III use Full maintenance

LPS definition
intervals
Category Level of Interval between
TU III Staff TU II Staff Mandatory
reference maintenance for the
LRA
protection indicated level (years)

1st ≤9m ≤ 100 NO SO SO

2n ≤ 28 m ≤ 1 000 YES SO SO
d
3rd ≤ 50 m ≤ 5 000 YES III 2 a)
4th > 50 m > 5 000 YES III 2 a)

a) if the value obtained from the risk calculation is higher than the reference risk, the frequency of
maintenance must be in line with the calculated risk value (level I and II every year; level III and IV every two
years).

TABLE IV - Risk categories for use type V "Hospitals and Nursing Homes"

Full
Risk locations
Criteria for use-types maintenance
D or E with LPS definition
IV and V intervals
independent
direct exits to
Category Staff in Interval between
the outside in Reference
Height of hazardous maintenances for
the reference Mandatory protection
TU IV or V Staff locations the indicated
plane LRA level
D or E level (years)

Applicable
1st ≤9m ≤ 100 ≤ 25 YES SO SO
to all
2nd ≤9m (*) ≤ ≤ 100 Not Applicable YES III SO
500
3rd ≤ 28 m (*) ≤ 1 ≤ 400 Not Applicable YES II 1 a)
500
4th > 28 m > 1 500 > 400 Not Applicable YES II 1 a)

(*) in type IV uses, where there are no D or E risk sites, the maximum headcount limits for the 2nd and 3rd risk
categories can increase by 50%.

a) if the value obtained from the risk calculation is higher than the reference risk, the frequency of
maintenance must be in line with the calculated risk value (level I and II every year; level III and IV every two
years).

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 TABLE V - Risk categories for TUs VI "Public shows and gatherings" and IX
"Sports and leisure"

Fulll
Criteria relating to use - type VI and IX Outdoors
LPS definition maintenance
intervals
No. of floors
Category occupied by Reference Interval between
Height Staff of TU Staff
TU VI or IX VI or IX Mandatory protection maintenances for
of UT VI TU VI or
below the LRA level the indicated level
or IX reference IX
(years)
plane (*)

- ≤ 1 000 NO SO SO
1st
≤9m 0 ≤ 1 00 - NO SO SO

- ≤ 15 000 YES SO SO
2n
d ≤ 28 m ≤1 ≤ 1 000 - YES SO SO

- ≤ 40 000 YES III 2 a)

3r
d ≤ 28 m ≤2 ≤ 5 000 - YES III 2 a)

- > 40 000 YES III 2 a)

4t
h > 28 m >2 > 5 000 - YES III 2 a)

(*) Floors intended exclusively for technical installations and equipment that only involve the presence of
people for maintenance and repair purposes, and/or which have sanitary facilities, are not taken into account.

a) if the value obtained from the risk calculation is higher than the reference risk, the frequency of
maintenance must be in line with the calculated risk value (level I and II every year; level III and IV every two
years).

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 TABLE VI - Risk categories for use type VII "Hotels and Restaurants"

Full
Criteria for standard
LPS definition maintenance
use VII Risk locations E
intervals
with direct
Staff of TU VII independent exits
Category to the outside in Reference Interval between
Height the reference Mandatory protection maintenances for
Staff in
of TU VII plane LRA level the indicated
Staff hazardous
level (years)
locations E

Applicable Applicable
1st ≤9m ≤ 50 NO SO SO
to all to all
Not
2nd ≤ 28 m ≤ 200 Not Applicable YES SO SO
Applicable
Not
3rd ≤ 28 m ≤ 800 Not Applicable YES III 2 a)
Applicable
Not
4th > 28 m > 800 Not Applicable YES III 2 a)
Applicable

(*) Floors intended exclusively for technical installations and equipment that only involve the presence of
people for maintenance and repair purposes, and/or which have sanitary facilities, are not taken into account.

a) if the value obtained from the risk calculation is higher than the reference risk, the frequency of
maintenance must be in line with the calculated risk value (level I and II every year; level III and IV every two
years).

TABLE VII - Risk categories for use type VIII "Commercial and Transport Hubs"

Full
Criteria for standard use VIII LPS definition maintenance
intervals
Category Number of floors Reference Interval between
Height
occupied by UT VIII Staff of TU Mandatory protection maintenances for
of TU
below the VIII LRA level the indicated
VIII reference plane (*) level (years)
1st ≤9m 0 ≤ 100 NO SO SO

2nd ≤ 28 m ≤1 ≤ 1 000 YES SO SO

3rd ≤ 28 m ≤2 ≤ 5 000 YES IV 2 a)

4th > 28 m >2 > 5 000 YES III 2 a)

(*) Floors intended exclusively for technical installations and equipment that only involve the presence of
people for maintenance and repair purposes, and/or which have sanitary facilities, are not taken into account.

a) if the value obtained from the risk calculation is higher than the minimum risk, the frequency of
maintenance must be in line with the calculated risk value (level I and II every year; level II and IV every two
years).

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 TABLE VIII - Risk categories for use type X "Museums and Art Galleries"

Criteria for standard Full maintenance

LPS definition
use X intervals

Category Interval between

Level of
Mandatory maintenances
Height of TU X Staff of TU X protection
LRA for the indicated level
reference
(years)
protection
1st ≤9m ≤ 100 NO SO SO

2nd ≤ 28 m ≤ 500 YES SO SO

3rd ≤ 28 m ≤ 1 500 YES III 2 a)

4th > 28 m > 1 500 YES III 2 a)

a) if the value obtained from the risk calculation is higher than the reference risk, the frequency of
maintenance must be in line with the calculated risk value (level I and II every year; level III and IV every two
years).

TABLE IX - Risk categories for use type XI "Libraries and Archives"

No. of Full
floors maintenance
LPS definition
occupied Modified fire intervals
TU XI Staff of
Category by TU XI load of UT XI
height TU XI
below the (**) Reference Interval between
reference Mandatory protection maintenances for
plane (*) LRA level the indicated
level (years)
1st ≤9m 0 ≤ 100 ≤ 1 000 MJ/m2 NO SO SO

2nd ≤ 28 m ≤1 ≤ 500 ≤ 10 000 MJ/m2 YES SO SO

3rd ≤ 28 m ≤2 ≤ 1 500 ≤ 30 000 MJ/m2 YES II 1 a)

4th > 28 m >2 > 1 500 > 30 000 MJ/m2 YES II 1 a)

(*) Floors intended exclusively for technical installations and equipment that only involve the presence of
people for maintenance and repair purposes, and/or which have sanitary facilities, are not taken into account.

(**) in type XI uses, intended exclusively for archives, the maximum limits of the modified fire load density
must be 10 times higher than those indicated in this table.

a) if the value obtained from the risk calculation is higher than the reference risk, the frequency of
maintenance must be in line with the calculated risk value (level I and II every year; level III and IV every two
years).

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 TABLE X – Risk categories for use type XII "Industrial, Workshops and Warehouses"

Criteria for standard use XII Full

LPS definition maintenance
Integrated into the building Outdoors intervals

Modified fire load of No. of floors

Category UT XII (**) occupied by TU Interval between
Reference
XII below the Modified fire load of UT maintenances for
Mandatory protection
reference plane XII (**) the indicated
LRA level
(*) level (years)

1st (*)≤ 500 MJ/m2 0 (*)≤ 1 000 MJ/m2 YES SO SO

2nd (*)≤ 5 000 MJ/m2 ≤1 (*)≤ 10 000 MJ/m2 YES SO SO

3rd (*)≤ 15 000 MJ/m2 ≤1 (*)≤ 30 000 MJ/m2 YES II 1 a)

4th (*)> 15 000 MJ/m2 >1 (*)> 30 000 MJ/m2 YES II 1 a)

(*) Floors intended exclusively for technical installations and equipment that only involve the presence of people for
maintenance and repair purposes, and/or which have sanitary facilities, are not taken into account.

(**) for type XII uses intended exclusively for warehouses, the maximum limits for the modified fire load density must
be 10 times higher than those indicated in this table.

a) if the value obtained from the risk calculation is higher than the reference risk, the frequency of maintenance
must be in line with the calculated risk value (level I and II every year; level III and IV every two years).

Concept of protection level - protection effectiveness

The NP EN 62305-2 standard deals with the calculation of the risk to buildings that should
lead to the installation of lightning protection, or not, and also the choice of the effectiveness
of the protection if necessary.

In some cases, personal or economic factors can be very important and should be taken into
account regardless of the outcome of the risk calculation involved. On the other hand, buildings
with inherent risk, such as explosives factories, require the best possible protection. For all other
buildings, calculating the risk incurred leads to determining the effectiveness of the protection
required.

This efficiency is reflected in the level of protection. Levels range from I to IV, with level I
being the most effective.

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 In some cases (ex. sensitive installations) the protection measures considered for level I may
not be sufficient, so the effectiveness of the protection measures should be increased or
additional measures applied, considering a protection level of I+ and I++ (NP 4426 standard)
and better characteristics of the surge arresters (NP EN 62302-2 - PEB values).Therefore,
the effectiveness of the protection measures should be increased or additional measures
applied, considering a protection level of I+ and I++ (standard NP 4426) and better
characteristics for surge arresters (NP EN 62305-2 - PEB values).

6.2 Project (TS-technical study)

Once the LRA has been carried out, we must move on to the design phase where the
protection and prevention measures to be adopted are defined. The project is based on the
results of LRA.
At the end of the project (TS-technical study), a written document must be drawn up,
presenting the various project phases, justifications, calculations and plans, which must be
included in the identification document for the installation.

7 DIRECT LIGHTNING PROTECTION INSTALLATIONS

Based on the project (TS), the installation must be carried out by a competent entity
registered with the ANEPC, in compliance with this document and the standards in force.

At the end of the installation, a term of responsibility must be presented by

the entity's responsible technician that carried out the installation.

A protection system comprises several elements that are electrically connected to each
other:
• one or more lightning capture devices;
• roof conductors that can be used to capture lightning strikes or simply connect a
capture device to the down conductors;
• down conductors;
• earthing connections;
• additional components that allow these various elements to be connected or provide
additional functions.

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 Legend:
1 one or more passive or active capture elements
2 bonding component
3 one or more specific down conductors
4 a removable connector for each specific down
conductor
5 an earthing system for each specific down conductor
6 foundations earthing system (structure earthing
network)
7 power cable
8 power distribution panel with surge protectors
9 main telecommunications distribution board, with
surge protectors
10 telecommunications cable with surge protectors
11 one or more equipotential bonding bars
12 one or more equipotential bonding connectors
between the earthing systems
13 disconnectable bonding device
14 one or more direct bonding connectors or via a
protective breaker
15 main earthing terminal
16 electrical materials
17 metal piping
18 one or more bonding device(s) via an arrester for the
antenna mast

Figure 2 - Schematic representation of the components of the lightning protection system

LPS components must comply with existing standards and, in particular, with the NP EN
62561 series of standards, which meet the requirements for LPS components.
For more information on direct lightning protection installations, please
see ANNEX A.5.

8 PREVENTION SYSTEMS
Prevention systems are used in addition to the lightning protection system to reduce the risk
to an installation.
Prevention systems have the function of alerting the responsible services to the approach
of a thunderstorm.
With a thunderstorm approaching, there is the possibility of impacts that could be dangerous
to the building and consequently cause damage to it. Once the approach of thunderstorms is
known, the services responsible can take preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of
damage and consequently reduce the risk.

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 Warning systems can be provided by local thunderstorm detectors (TWS) or by LLS detection
networks.
Both systems must comply with the corresponding standards (see item11 of this Technical
Note).
In the event of an alert, the measures to be taken must be included in written procedures
and disclosed to all those involved. Without the existence of these written procedures, which
must be part of the facility's identification document, warning systems will not be considered
effective in reducing risk.
For more information on warning systems (TWS and LLS), please see the
current regulations.

9 INTERNAL LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM

Dependence on electrical and electronic equipment continues to increase, both in
professional and private life. Data networks in companies or emergency facilities, such as
hospitals and fire stations, are essential lines for exchanging information in real time.
Sensitive databases need reliable transmission paths.

It is not just lightning that poses a latent threat to these systems. More and more often,
today's electronic devices are damaged by overvoltages caused by remote lightning strikes
or by switching operations in large electrical systems.
For more information on the internal lightning protection system, see
ANNEX A.7.

10 LPS MAINTENANCE AND ROUTINE CHECKS

During the life cycle of the building or enclosure, it is the responsibility of the safety officer
to ensure that the fire safety equipment is operational. To this end, they must set up
maintenance teams for checks and use external maintenance entities, certified by ANEPC,
for periodic maintenance.
Note: it is recommended that the name and telephone number of the
maintenance company be displayed at the safety station or, if there is none,
in an easily accessible place.

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The tables in item 6.1 of this Technical Note indicate the frequency of visual checks and full
maintenance according to the level of risk.
Note: It is recommended to test the functioning of the protection measures
for internal discharges, including the equipotential bonding of the DC
protection, at the same time.

10.1 Verification and Maintenance Routine

A maintenance and service routine must be implemented. This routine is designed to ensure
the correct and continued operation of the LPS.
According to NP EN 62305-3 and 4 and NP 4426 standards, periodic maintenance procedures
and test reports are defined in order to guarantee the efficient operation of the LPS.
Therefore, a checking and maintenance routine must be adopted and records created with
the checking and maintenance reports, in accordance with no. 1 of Article 201st of the TRLVEI
and terms of responsibility for maintenance, as per the drafts contained in ANEPC Technical
Note 02.
The chapter on the regulation of electrical installations contains the Technical Rules for Low
Voltage Electrical Installations (TRLVEI), approved by Ministerial Order no. 949-A/2006, of
September 11th, and amended by Ministerial Order no. 252/2015, of August 19th, which also
addresses the maintenance of LPS installations subject to periodic checks and tests.

10.1.1 Visual check

The points mentioned in the report should be:
• No lightning-related damage was observed;
• The capture integrity is not altered;
• Extension or modification of the protected structure requires the application of
additional lightning protection measures;
• The electrical continuity of the visible conductors is guaranteed;
• All fixings and mechanical protections of the components are in good condition;
• No parts were damaged by corrosion;
• The separation distance is respected, the number of equipotential bonds is
sufficient and the correct state of repair is not compromised;
• The results of maintenance operations are checked and recorded.

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 Any anomalies observed and the respective corrective action must be
included in the safety records of the Self-Protection Measures.

10.1.2 Full maintenance

In addition to what is mentioned for the visual check, complete maintenance also includes
the following:
The following LPS tests must be carried out:
• Carrying out continuity tests, especially the continuity of those parts of the LPS
that are not visible for inspection during the initial installation and will not be
available for visual inspection afterwards;
• Earthing resistance tests of the earthing system. Measurements and checks of
isolated and combined earthing resistance must be carried out and the results
recorded in the LPS inspection report.

Note: high-frequency or impulse measurements are possible and are useful for
determining the high-frequency or impulse behavior of the earthing system. These
measurements can be taken during the installation phase, as well as periodically
for the maintenance of the earthing system, in order to check that the earthing
system designed is in line with requirements.

Each local earth electrode must be measured, isolated from the test joint, between the
down conductor and the earth electrode, in the switch-off position (isolated measurement).
Note: For earthing networks incorporating either vertical earth rods or a partial or
complete ring earthing electrode, disconnection and testing must be carried out in the
earthing measurement box. If this inspection is difficult to carry out, the individual series
test should be completed by high-frequency testing or shock testing.

If the earthing resistance of the earthing system as a whole exceeds 10 Ohms, the earthing
system must be upgraded by installing additional earthing electrodes or by installing a new
system.

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If there is a significant increase or decrease in the value of the earthing resistance, the
reasons for this change should be investigated.
For earthing electrodes in rocky soil, the requirements of section
E.[Link] of EN 62305-3. The 10 Ohms requirement does not apply in this case.

Surge arresters without a visual indicator need to be tested, preferably using the guidelines
provided by the manufacturer or using equipment supplied by the same manufacturer.
The maintenance program must contain the following provisions:
• Checking of all LPS conductors and system components;
• Checking of the electrical continuity of the LPS installation;
• Measurement of earthing resistance of earthing systems;
• Checking of surge arresters;
• Re-tightening of components and conductors;
• Checking to ensure that the effectiveness of the LPS has not been reduced
following additions or changes to the structure or its installations.
Preferably, the full maintenance recommendations prepared by the
manufacturer should be fulfilled.

Any anomalies observed and the respective corrective action must be

included in the safety records of the Self-Protection Measures.

10.2 Documentation
Complete records must be kept of all maintenance procedures, including corrective actions,
recorded in the occurrence log book, which is one of the parts of the Self-Protection
Measures (see ANEPC Technical Note 21).
Records of maintenance procedures should provide a means of assessing the components
and installation of the LPS.
The LPS maintenance log should serve as the basis for reviewing maintenance procedures
and updating maintenance programs.
The LPS maintenance records must be kept together with the LPS design and inspection
records.

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 Routine checks to be carried out at the intervals indicated in the self-protection measures
must be carried out by an operator designated by the safety officer if he has the necessary
technical competence and resources.
The maintenance actions to be carried out annually, or whenever justified, must be carried
out by an entity registered with the ANEPC for the purpose of maintaining this system.

11 LEGISLATIVE AND NORMATIVE REFERENCES

Direct protection

Systems with a non-radioactive ionizing device

• NP 4426 - Lightning Protection - Systems with non-radiative ionizing device

Passive systems
• NP EN 62305-1 - Lightning protection; Part 1:
General principles)
• NP EN 62305-2 - Lightning protection - Part 2: Risk management
• NP EN 62305-3 - Lightning protection - Part 3: Physical damage to structures
and life hazard

LPS components
• NP EN 62561-1 - Lightning protection system components (LPSC); Part 1:
Requirements for connection components
• NP EN 62561-2 - Lightning protection system components (LPSC); Part 2:
Requirements for conductors and earthing electrodes
• NP EN 62561-3 _ Lightning protection system components (LPSC); Part 3:
Requirements for insulating earthing (ISG)

PAGE 25/109
• NP EN 62561-4 - Lightning protection system components (LPSC) Part 4:
Requirements for conductor fasteners
• NP EN 62561-5 - Lightning protection system components (LPSC) - Part 5:
Requirements for earthing electrode inspection housings and earthing electrode
seals
• NP EN 62561-6 - Lightning protection system components (LPSC) - Part 6:
Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSC)
• NP EN 62561-7 - Lightning protection system components (LPSC); Part 7:
Requirements for earthing enhancing compounds
• IEC TS 62561-8 - Lightning Protection System Components (LPSC); Part 8:
Requirements For Components For Isolated LPS
• CLC TS 50703-1 - Lightning Protection System Components (LPSC) - Part 1: Testing
requirements for metal sheets' joints used in LPS .
• CLC TS 50703-2 - Lightning Protection System Components (LPSC) Specific testing
requirements for LPS components used in explosive atmospheres .
People's Protection
• IEC TR 62713 - Safety Procedures For Reduction Of Risk Outside A Structure
(Measures to reduce risk on the outside of a structure)

PAGE 26/109
Internal protection (electromagnetic effects of lightning current)
• IEC 62305-4 - Lightning protection - Part 4 : Electrical and electronic systems
within structures
• EN 61643-21 - Surge protective devices connected to telecommunications and signaling
networks - Part 21: Performance requirements and testing methods
• NP EN 61643- 11 - Low-voltage surge protective devices - Part 11: Surge protective
devices connected to low-voltage power systems - Requirements and test methods
• CLC TS 61643-12 - Low-voltage lightning arresters Part 12: Lightning arresters
connected to low-voltage distribution networks. Selection and application
principles (Low- voltage surge protective devices - Part 12: Surge protective
devices connected to low-voltage power distribution systems - Selection and
application principles).
• CLC TS 61643-22 - Low-voltage surge protective devices - Part 22: Surge protective
devices connected to telecommunications and signal ling networks - Selection and
application principles
• NP EN 61643-31 - Low-voltage surge protective devices - Part 31: Requirements and
test methods for SPDs for photovoltaic installations (IEC 61643-31:2018 modified)
• IEC 61643-32 - Low-voltage surge protective devices - Part 32: Surge protective
devices connected to the DC side of photovoltaic installations - Selection and
application principles

PAGE 27/109
• NP EN 50539-11 - Low-voltage surge protective devices; Surge protective devices
for specific applications including DC; Part 11: requirements and tests for SPDs in
photovoltaic applications Part 11: requirements and tests for SPDs in photovoltaic
applications
• CLC TS 50539-12 - Low-voltage surge arresters - Surge arresters for specific
applications including direct current Part 12: Selection and application principles -
SPDs connected to photovoltaic installations
• CLC TS 51643-32- Low-voltage surge protective devices - Part 32: Surge protective
devices connected to the DC side of photovoltaic installations - Selection and
application principles
• IEC 60364-5-53- Low-voltage electrical installations - Part 5-53: Selection and
erection of electrical equipment - Devices for protection for safety, isolation,
switching, control and monitoring).
• CLC TS 50539-22 - Low-voltage surge protective devices - Surge protective devices
for specific application including d.c. - Part 22: Selection and application principles
- Wind turbine applications

• CLC TS 50544 - Low voltage d.c. surge protective device for traction systems -
Selection and application rules for surge arresters
• CLC TR 50656 - SPD application in conjunction with Class II equipment

PAGE 28/109
Detection and prevention
• EN IEC 62793 - Protection Against Lightning - Thunderstorm Warning Systems
Lightning protection - Thunderstorm detectors
• EN IEC 62858 - Lightning density based on lightning location systems (LLS):
General Principles

Normative requirements for equipotential bonding

• IEC 60364-4-41 Electrical installations in buildings - Part 4-41: Protection against
mechanical shock
• IEC 60364-5-54 (Low-voltage electrical installations - Part 5-54: Selection and
erection of electrical equipment - Earthing arrangements and protective
conductors)
• NP EN 61784 - Industrial communication networks
• IEC 60728-11 - Cable networks for television signals, sound signals and interactive
services - Part 11: Safety
• NP EN 62305-4 - Protection against lightning - Part 4 : Electrical and electronic
systems within structures

PAGE 29/109
12 ANNEXES
12.1 ANNEX A.1 - GLOSSARY

L - Lightning

LPS (Lightning Protection System) - A complete system used to reduce the risk of physical
damage due to lightning strikes in a building/enclosure.

ELPS - External Lightning Protection System LRA - Lightning Risk

Assessment

LID - A lightning arrester which, under the same conditions, generates a faster upward
initialization tracer than a single rod lightning arrester (standard NP 4426).

Single rod lightning arrester (SRLA) - Metal rod, at least one meter long, designed to
capture the lightning strike in a conventional LPS - standard NP EN 62303-3.

Note: SRLA is also referred to as STLA in some literature.

LPSID - a lightning protection system with an ionizing device. A complete system based on
one or more LIDs and all the elements needed to safely conduct the lightning current to earth
in order to protect a structure, building or enclosure against the direct impact of lightning
strikes.

LID efficiency (ΔT) - Difference in microseconds between the upward tracer emission time
of a LID pickup element and a single rod pickup element (SRLA).

Note: this is measured in a laboratory under the conditions defined in

standard NP 4426.

Radius of Protection (Rp) - Area protected by the lightning arrester. It depends on the pick-
up system chosen, its height (h) in relation to the surface to be protected and the level of
protection selected.

Density of lightning (Nsg) - Number of lightning strike impacts per km2/year.

Notes:
This value can be obtained from the local lightning detection network.

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 It is defined for a specific region or, if possible, for the location where the LPS is
to be installed.

Lightning Protection Level (Np) - Value associated with the set of lightning current
parameters. It is determined by calculating the risk.

Note: It is associated with the LPS's probability of protection.

Risk (R) - Defines the probable average annual loss of people and property due to lightning
strikes.

Risk component (RX) - Partial risk that depends on the source and type of damage.

Tolerable risk (TR) - Maximum risk value that can be tolerated by the structure or service to
be protected.

Down conductor - Conductor conforming to the NP EN 62561 series of standards, or part of the
structure, intended to direct the lightning current to earth.

Note: in the case of a part of the structure, it must comply with the
requirements of the standards regarding thickness, dimensions and
continuity.
Earthing network - Part of an LPS designed to conduct and dissipate the lightning current
in the ground.

Captor - Metal element designed and positioned to receive the impact of lightning strikes.

Note: this can be a small metal tip of a lightning arrester (SRLA or LID), or
of conductors.

Natural component - A conductive component not installed specifically for protection against
lightning, but which can be integrated into the LPS or which, in some cases, can, in
accordance with the standards, work as one or more parts of the LPS (ex. down conductor,
captor...).

Fixing component - Part of the LPS that is used to fix its components to the structure to be
protected.

Isolated system - LPS in which part of the lightning current cannot circulate in the structure
to be protected.

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Non-insulated system - LPS in which the lightning current can circulate in the structure to
be protected.

Separation Distance (S) - Distance between the LPS and a conductive part of the structure
at which no dangerous arcing can occur.

Note: calculated in accordance with standards NP EN 62305-3 in the case

of conventional systems and NP 4426 in the case of the use of LID.

Lightning Protection Zone (LPZ) - Zone where the electromagnetic environment of the
lightning strikes is defined.

Note: the boundaries of a LPZ are not necessarily physical (ex. walls,
ceiling, floor, etc.).

Equipotential bonding busbar (EBB) - A busbar intended to serve as an interconnection route

for all the elements that may be included in the main earthing system.

Surge Arrester SPD - A device designed to limit transient overvoltages and lightning
currents. It includes at least one non-linear component.

Note: in some regulatory documents the SPD is referred to as a surge

protector.

PSPD - Probability of a device being damaged despite protection by a coordinated SPD

system.

Removable connector - A connector designed and installed so that the earthing resistance
value can be measured independently of the rest of the LPS.

Isolation switch (ISG) - A device designed to electrically separate metal elements that should
not be in electrical contact under normal operating conditions.

Thunderstorm Warning System (TWS) - A system consisting of one (or more) thunderstorm
detector(s) capable of monitoring lightning strikes, or their activity in a given monitoring
area, with tools to process the acquired data in order to provide a valid alarm.

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Lightning locating network (LLS) - A network of lightning sensors that work together to
detect and geolocate lightning events within the system's coverage area.

12.2 ANNEX A.2 - PHYSICS OF LIGHTNING PHENOMENA

Local density of lightning strikes
The occurrence of thunderstorms at a given location is obtained by thunderstorm detection
networks, which, after collecting data over a 10-year period, are able to provide the density
of lightning strike on the ground, expressed as the number of impacts/km2/year. The data
currently used to characterize storm severity is the density of ground impact points (symbol
Nsg - number of contact points/km2/year), which has recently replaced the density of ground
lightning strikes (symbol Ng - number of ground lightning strikes/km2/year).
A lightning strike can have several points of contact on the ground (the number of points of
contact on the ground depends on the location, but a commonly accepted value is on average
2 points of contact on the ground). The density of lightning strikes on the ground is
determined precisely, and information on the amplitude of these strikes is also available. In
Portugal, this data can be obtained via Meteorage or from the Portuguese Institute of the Sea
and Atmosphere.
Since the existence of the international standard NP EN 62858, the provision of this
information is based on precise and internationally harmonized methods.

Local factors influencing lightning strikes

Some local factors can influence the formation of thunderstorms and lightning strikes:
• Topological factors;
• Geological factors;
• Ionic concentration of the air (air conductivity);
• Precursor phenomena.

Thunderstorm clouds
Thunderstorm clouds are large masses usually of the cumulonimbus type, occupying an area
of a few tens of square kilometers, with a thickness of several kilometers. Its mass is around
hundreds of thousands of tons of water. They are made up of water droplets at the

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and ice particles at the top. Their base is about 2 to 3 km above the ground and they grow to
altitudes of 10 to 15 km. There are two types of thunderstorm structures: hot thunderstorms,
which are very localized, and frontal thunderstorms, which can travel hundreds of
kilometers. Together with certain thermodynamic phenomena, there is a separation and
transfer of electrical charges within the cloud. The end result is that the upper part of storm
clouds, made up of ice crystals, is positively charged, while its base is negatively charged (it
can be the other way around). It can often be observed an island of positive charges in the
middle of the negative mass.
When a cloud is ripe to trigger a thunderstorm, it forms a large electric dipole (Figure 3),
creating intense electric fields between the different inner layers, as well as between its
base and the earth's surface. These fields are the necessary source for the formation of
lightning strikes, which can be intra/inter-cloud discharges or the discharge that occurs
between the cloud and the ground.
When a charged cloud is forming or approaching, under the influence of the negative charges
at its base, whose effect becomes predominant, the electric field on the ground begins to
reverse and grow strongly. When its intensity reaches -10to -15kV/m, it can be said that a
lightning strike is imminent. This strong increase in the electric field is the first sign of the
likelihood of a lightning strike.

Note: the negative sign results from the direction convention chosen for the
ground field, the field is negative when the ground is positive in relation to
the atmosphere.

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 distance
Km

Electric field
Kv/m

Figure 3 - Thunderstorm cloud and the electric field it creates on the ground

FIGURE 4 - Negative downward tracer FIGURE 5 - Upward positive tracer of a

tall structure

FIGURE 6 - Negative upward tracer of a FIGURE 7 - Positive downward tracer

tall structure

PAGE 35/109
Corona effect on the ground
The above-mentioned values of the ground's electric field assume a flat horizontal ground.
Any roughness, by concentrating the electric field lines, can considerably increase the local
field. It can be calculated that at the top of a hemisphere placed on a plane, the field is three
times the average field. When the hemisphere is deformed into a pointed ellipsoid, this effect
becomes more pronounced.
Thus, for a ratio between the major and minor axis of the ellipsoid equal to 30, the field is
multiplied by a factor of 300. As the ionizing threshold of atmospheric air is of around 25
kV/cm, it can be observed, under particular conditions, that an ambient field of around 10
kV/m is sufficient to cause a corona effect at the top of the ellipsoid. This phenomenon has
been observed since ancient times on the tips of spears and other sharp objects and was
also known by sailors as santelmo fire, which occurred at the top of ships' masts.

The route of a lightning strike Classification of lightning strikes

Firstly, the impact of LS is classified according to the direction of tracer development (or
first leader):
• downward impact (development of the tracer from the cloud);
• upward impact (development of the tracer from the ground).

On flat terrain, the most frequent LS impacts are downward. For an upward impact to
develop, a significant prominence, such as a tall tower, must be present. This is also the
reason upward impacts occur more frequently in the mountains.
Secondly, LSs are classified according to their polarity:
• negative impacts (lightning from a negatively charged cloud);
• positive impacts (lightning from a positively charged cloud).

In temperate regions, 90% of lightning strikes are negative. Figures 4, 5, 6 and 7

summarize this classification.

PAGE 36/109
Downward discharges
The first phase of a descending lightning strike is a pre-discharge or weakly luminous tracer,
which spreads from the cloud towards the ground, progressing in leaps of a few tens of meters
(this is the leaping tracer or stepped leader). Between the jumps there are intervals of between
40 and 100 µs, thus the average rate of progression is between 0.15 and 0.50 m/µs. As this
tracer progresses, it branches and the luminosity of the ionized route increases.
As soon as the head of a jumping tracer approaches the ground, pre-discharges develop upwards
from the ground, usually from a tree, in a ledge, etc.,
towards the tracer.
This phenomenon characterizes the impact mechanism and all recent lightning protection
models are based on its analysis. Thus, when one of these upward pre-discharges and the
downward jumping tracer meet, a conductive channel is established between the cloud and
the ground, which will allow a high-intensity current to pass through. This current is formed
by the surface charges of the ground which, rising through the ionized channel formed by
the tracer, neutralize its charges.
An atmospheric discharge is usually made up of several partial discharges flowing through
the same ionized channel.
The process is as follows:
• when the current from the first discharge stops flowing, it can take around 100
m/s before a second discharge occurs, as the cloud can still contain a certain
amount of charge. This second discharge begins with the appearance of a tracer
which, unlike the jumping tracer, progresses continuously. This is what is known
in English as a dart leader, whose propagation speed is around 106 m/s;
• it is also followed by a return arc;
• several successive lightning strikes can occur, according to this type of
mechanism.

In general, a full lightning strike lasts 0.2 to 1 s and has an average of four partial discharges.
CIGRÉ (Conseil International des Grands Réseaux Électriques) recently showed that 80% of
lightning strikes included at least two impulses, which is rarely significant for a ELPS, but can
be important for surge protectors. The first discharge is usually the one with the greatest
amplitude, although this is not a general rule. In the interval between impulse discharges, a

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weak current, of around a hundred or a thousand amperes, continues to flow through the
ionized channel: it is the persistent current (direct current) that often carries most of the
total charge of a LS. As for the positive downward lightning strike, it occurs in much the
same way, but generally only consists of a single return arc, but of a much longer duration,
and is therefore responsible for more significant damage. Persistent currents can also be
associated with positive LS impacts.

Upward atmospheric discharges

If the corona effect remains weak and limited to the immediate vicinity of the tip of a lightning
rod, the discharge can develop much further when the size of the object is large. In some
cases, such as poles placed on a hill, tall towers..., it can increase enough to reach the cloud.
A real impact occurs, called an upward discharge. These upward discharges are often
observed from modern telecommunication towers, which are over 300 m high, in
skyscrapers (observations in the Empire State Building) and from mountain peaks.

Electrical parameters of the LS

Shapes of the impulse components (discharges) of a lightning strike

• Forms of negative discharges

Negative discharges offer a wide variety of combinations of impulse currents and
direct (or persistent) currents, each with varying amplitudes and durations. The
front duration of the first partial discharge is in the range of 5 to 15 µs; the final
time is around 100 µs. For secondary discharges, the duration of the front is very
short, less than 1 µs, but the tail of the wave is much more regular than in the
first discharge.
Although negative lightning currents generally have a smaller amplitude than
positive lightning currents, they have a much greater frontal rigidity. For 50% of
negative discharges, the frontal stiffness is greater than 20 kA/µs, while for positive
lightning, the average is 2 kA/µs.

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 • Forms of positive discharges
Positive lightning usually consists of a single discharge that lasts from 0.1 to 0.2
minutes.
s. The duration of the wavefront is relatively long, varying between 20 and 200
µs, but the current amplitude can reach very high values, over100 kA.

• LS waveforms in the laboratory

In the laboratory, a 10/350 µs wave represents the form of direct lightning strikes
in an LPS, while the 8/20 µs wave is representative of induced overvoltages. It
should be noted that the 1.2/50 µs voltage wave is also used to test the
equipment's insulation.

FIGURE 8 - Lightning waveform in the laboratory

Distribution of the different lightning parameters

The parameters used to describe the lightning impulse (or impulses in the case of multiple
lightning strikes) are numerous. The following can be mentioned in particular: current
amplitude, lead time, tail time, load and specific energy.
For more information, please see NP EN 62305-1.

Effects of parameters characteristic of LS

High-frequency effects of LS
In addition to the effects on structures or objects such as: a fire caused by a LS on a roof, a
forest fire, a tree explosion, a destroyed church tower, etc., there is another phenomenon,
less spectacular, but which is the basis for the design of any lightning protection system: the
overvoltage generated by the Ls on the LPS conductors due to the passage of the high-
frequency current from the LS. The drop of resistive voltage (Ohm's law) in a copper LPS

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conductor, for example, is low even for currents of several kA. On the other hand, the
frequency of lightning strikes is such that, due to the inherent inductance and mutuality
between this conductor and another circuit, such as the earthing network, for example, the
variation in the LS current (or its equivalent frequency) generates a much higher voltage.
Any circuit in the building that is earthed and close to the LPS is at risk of being impacted by
this high voltage. This is what will lead to a certain distance being respected between this
circuit and the LPS, which is called the separation distance. This also applies to the rebar
iron in reinforced concrete, which is earthed at the bottom of the structure.
A person on the ground near a down conductor is also at risk of impact, so a certain distance
(usually 3 m) should be imposed between the ELPS down conductor and people.
An earthing electrode made of a single long electrode does not behave as well as two
conductors of the same total length, because a single conductor will have higher impedance
(inductance).
For surge protectors, the length of wiring (considering a value of less than 1 µH/m) will lead to
a drop in potential that will degrade the efficiency of the surge protector, so these lengths
should be reduced as much as possible.

Impact mechanism and electrogeometric model

There are two ways of explaining the protective function of a lightning arrester:
• rod effect;
• its power of attraction over the LS.

this power is limited to a relatively small volume, which allows a certain protection zone to
be guaranteed around the lightning arrester. Various definitions of this zone, all empirical,
have been given, in the form of a cone with a circular cross-section, vertical axis, and whose
apex coincides with the tip of the lightning arrester.
In plain language, the term "lightning arrester" is often used to refer to protection against
direct lightning strikes, but the lightning arrester is only one of the capture devices.
Furthermore, protection against impacts and the effects of LS is not limited to

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the simple capture of the shock of a lightning strike, but it must also safely conduct the LS
to earth.
The study of the physical phenomena involved in lightning strikes has made it possible to
develop a method for determining the protection zone of a vertical SRLA or horizontal guard
wires and has also made it possible to define the maximum mesh size of a cage. This method
is based on the analysis of the lightning strike impact mechanism and is implemented using
a mathematical model called the electrogeometric model.
In the current standards, all protection models are considered to be based on the
electrogeometric model.

Electrogeometric model Considering:

• the relationship between the charge of the tracer and the field in the soil;
• the ratio between the tracer charge and the peak intensity of the assumed
current;
• the field strength in the soil required to trigger the development of the upward
discharge,

it is possible to establish an analytical expression for the distance between the tracer and
the object on the ground, at which an upward discharge meets the downward tracer. This
distance is called the "Ls start" distance and corresponds to the last jump of the descending
tracer.

As long as the earthing of this object is sufficiently conductive, the analytical expression is:
Ls = 10 ICmin2/3

with Ls in meters and I in kA.

For a fictitious sphere of the lightning strike with radius = Ls, it can be assumed that all LS
with a peak value greater than the corresponding minimum value of I will be intercepted by
natural or dedicated capture devices.
According to this model, the point of impact of the LS is considered to be the object that is
first encountered at the "starting" distance from the tracer tip.

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The model is not valid for positive discharges. The formula to be taken into account for
positive lightning strikes will be different from the one identified above.

Graphical method for determining the protection zone

Fictitious sphere method

According to the electrogeometric model, the point of impact of the LS is determined by the
object on the ground, which will be the first to be at the "lS-start" distance of the descending
tracer, even if that object is the flat ground itself.
Everything happens as if the tip of the tracer was surrounded by a fictitious sphere of the
lightning strike Ld, centered on it, and as if this sphere was rigidly following the tracer tip
during its random trajectory. As it approaches the ground, the first object the ball touches
determines the point of impact of the lightning.
Imagine the fictitious sphere of the Ls lightning strike rolling along the ground in all
directions without ever losing contact with the ground or a prominent object:
• If, during this movement, the ball comes into contact with the protective devices
(vertical lightning rod, horizontal wires, wire layer, cage/meshes) without ever
being able to touch one of the objects to be protected, then their protection is
assured;
• If, during this movement, the ball comes into contact with one of the objects to
be protected, the protective device must be readjusted until no such contact
occurs.

It can be concluded that the protection zone provided by a vertical rod, such as a Franklin
rod lightning arrester, will depend on the Ls radius of the sphere and, consequently, on the
intensity I of the current radius it will follow.

Other configurations
A similar geometric construction can be applied to a vertical or horizontal conductor, or to
a mesh of parallel horizontal conductors. From these basic elements, it can be imagined an
entire metal mesh surrounding the volume to be protected, giving it the protection of a
cage/mesh. To analyze the protection offered by such a cage, the procedure indicated in the
previous paragraphs is used. However, during the implementation of the process, it will

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be necessary to take into account certain practical rules that are described below.

Capture devices
Rolling sphere radius

FIGURE 9 - Rolling sphere method

Lightning strike frequency of a rod or building - Simplified calculation

It is convenient to define an equivalent capture surface S of a rod or a building. This surface
is, by definition, the surface of a flat terrain that would receive the same LS impacts every
year. This surface is always larger than the ground surface of the building in question. This
method consists of increasing the usable area of the building itself by surrounding its
perimeter with a strip, the width of which is equal to three times the height of the building.

Effects of LS
As an electrical phenomenon, the LS can have the same consequences as any other current
passing through an electrical conductor, or any other current passing through a poor
conductor or insulator. The following effects can be expected:
• thermal effects (fusion and heat release);
• electrodynamic effects (appearance of forces between the conductors);
• electrochemical effects (galvanic decomposition);
• acoustic effects (thunder).
Of these four types of effect, only the first two play a significant role. Thermal effects
Effects linked to the amount of charge Q

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Thermal effects are the effects of fusion, when an arc is created at the point where the LS
current enters an electrical conductor, known as an impact trace.
In LS protection installations, they are mainly observed at the point where the discharge
current enters the LPS, for example at the tip of the SRLA.
In conductors of sufficient cross-section, there are no visible consequences of overheating,
despite the skin effect. Heating to the fusion point only occurs in small sections of conductors
or at high resistivities. Fusion effects are often observed, for example, in antenna cables and
wires. On the contrary, it is rarely visible in thicker cables, a few millimeters in diameter (for
example, barbed wire). There has never been any cases of fusion in LS conductors with the
cross-sections recommended in the NP EN 62305-3 standard, i.e. 50 mm² in general.

12.3 ANNEX A.3 - RISK ANALYSIS

The essence of the method is to assess the risk to a building/enclosure from a lightning
strike. The risk must be assessed in relation to the impacts that are:
• direct;
• in the vicinity of the building/premises or service.

The calculated risk is then compared with a tolerable risk, defined in the NP EN 62305-2
standard. If the calculated risk is higher than the tolerable risk, protective/preventive
measures must be installed; if the calculated level is lower than the tolerable risk, the
building/premises is considered self-protected and no protective measures need to be
installed.

12.3.1 Assessment of significant risk of a lightning strike

Lightning can cause various types of damage to a structure:

• injuries to human beings;
• physical damage to the structure and its contents (fire, explosion, mechanical
damage...);
• failure of internal systems (electrical and electronic).

The risk assessment identifies four sources of damage. These are taken into account when
calculating the risk:
• direct impact on the structure;

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 • impact close to the structure (usually a few hundred meters from the limits of
the building);
• impact on connected lines;
• impact close to the connected lines (usually a few thousand meters on either
side of the line).

12.3.2 Determining the need for and type and installation of an LPS

The need for protection is determined by assessing the risk of lightning strike, which is
carried out through the RISK ASSESSMENT calculation.
The risk assessment calculation method is described in NP 4426 and NP EN 62305-2
standards, with only slight differences.
There are other standards that present risk calculations, but these are always simplified
forms of the calculation of the simplified form of EN 62305-2:
• IEC 60364 part 443 electrical installations;
• IEC 60364 part 7-712 photovoltaic systems;
• IEC 61400-24 wind turbines.

The risk calculation process is as follows:

• Determining the possible sources of damage;
• Determining their frequency of occurrence;
• Determining the associated amount of damage;
• Determining whether the risk is acceptable and, if not, propose solutions;
• Determining the efficiency and cost of the proposed solutions, especially when
there is more than one protection solution.

By way of example: the current IEC 62305-2 standard describes the method for
risk assessment. The risks considered are as follows:
• Risk of loss of human life;
• Risk of loss of services;
• Risk of loss of cultural heritage;
• Risk of economic losses.

In the full risk assessment (IEC 62305-2) each risk is calculated according to the structure's
needs and the sum of the calculated risks is compared to a tolerable risk. If the total risk is
higher than the tolerable risk, the structure must be protected by an LPS, if it is not

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higher, the structure will be considered self-protected. If there are several buildings on a
given site, the calculation is carried out for each building, considering the lines connected to
it, as well as the building from which that line departs.
Note: IEC 62305-2 is currently being updated. The risk calculation method
may change in future versions. The method to be applied should be that of
the standard in force.

If the structure requires protection, the protection and prevention measures (DLPS, SPDs,
TWS or LLS ...) that will reduce the risk below the tolerated level must be defined. These will
be associated with a level of protection (Np) defined by the risk analysis, which ranges from
IV (lowest level, weakest protection) to I (highest level, strongest protection) and its
installation rules. This second part of the protection plan is called the Technical Study (TS).
TABLE XI – Typical Values of Tolerable Risk RT

TR
Type of risk considered (per year)
R1 Risk of loss of human life 10–5
R2 Risk of loss of services 10–3
R3 Risk of loss of cultural heritage 10–4
R4 Risk of economic loss 10–3

In cases where the risk cannot be reduced below the tolerable level, despite using the best
means of protection, the higher levels of protection (I), (more efficient than LPL I),
complementary solutions such as thunderstorm detectors or detection networks associated
with the protective measures should be used.

12.3.3 Level of protection and associated probability of protection

A lightning protection system is rarely described in terms of kA or kV. The normal way of
characterizing an LPS is a number ranging from 4 to 1, written in Roman characters, i.e. from
IV to I, with 1 being the most effective.
This number is called the lightning protection level.

Note: the lightning protection level of an LPS is expressed by a Roman

numeral from IV to I and has nothing to do with the protection level of a
surge protector, which is expressed in kV.

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The level of lightning protection is a very important parameter that should be explained in
detail. A lightning protection level is linked to two parameters:
• Capturing lightning efficiently: since it is easier to capture a large lightning current
than a small one, due to the electrogeometric model, the critical parameter will be
the smallest lightning current that the LPS can capture;
• Once captured by the LPS, the LPS must be able to handle this current. As the direct
lightning current is assumed to have the same waveform (10/350 µs), the most
severe case is the highest lightning current the LPS can withstand.

The associated lightning current distribution probabilities are provided on the basis of the
lightning current distribution. The following tables show the maximum electric current levels
associated with each level of lightning protection and the minimum lightning current that
will be captured by an LPS at this level.

TABLE XII – Maximum Lightning Impulse Current Associated with Lightning Protection Level

LEVEL OF PROTECTION
I II III - IV
Peak current value (ka) 200 150 100

TABLE XIII – Minimum Lightning Impulse Current Associated with Lightning Protection Level

LEVEL OF PROTECTION
I II III IV
Peak current value (ka) 3 5 10 16

TABLE XIV – Probability of Lightening Currents

PROBABILITY OF LIGHTNING CURRENT: LEVEL OF PROTECTION

I II III IV
Being lower than the maximum 0.99 0.98 0.95 0.95
value
Being higher than the minimum 0.99 0.97 0.91 0.84
value

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 Note: for more information on the parameters associated with each level of
protection, please see NP EN 62305-1.

12.4 ANNEX A.4 - SIMPLIFIED RISK ANALYSIS

The risk is calculated in accordance with standard NP EN 62305-2. In some cases, a simplified
method for calculating risk can be used which, based on the aforementioned standard, takes
into account a smaller number of parameters for the calculation.
Some standards include a specific risk analysis method that must be used when they are
applied.
Whenever item 6.1 of this Technical Note requires the risk to be calculated, the method
indicated in the tables must be used or, if this is not the case, the NP EN 62305-2 standard.
The simplified methods consist of applying a limited number of parameters to calculate the risk, but
they can only be used in buildings with the following characteristics:
• The risk of fire is low, or ordinary, no matter what the risk of panic is, or
• The risk of fire is high, but the risk of panic is low.

It does not apply to buildings containing explosive products or atmospheres, or which may
pose a risk to the environment.

12.4.1 Definition of panic risk

Buildings can be defined in terms of panic level as follows:

TABLE XV - Type of hazard for people

Type of hazard for people
No particular risk
Low panic risk: (ex. buildings/structures limited to two floors and less than 100 people)

Medium risk level (ex. buildings/structures intended for cultural or sporting events with
capacity between 100 and 1000 people)
Difficulty in evacuation (ex. buildings/structures with immobilized people, hospitals)
High panic level (ex. buildings/structures intended for cultural or sporting events with more
than 1000 people)

PAGE 48/109
12.4.2 Definition of fire risk

Buildings with a high fire risk can be assumed to be constructed with combustible materials,
or buildings with combustible roofs, or buildings with a specific heat mass of more than
800MJ/m2.

Buildings with an ordinary fire risk can be assumed to have a specific heat mass between
800MJ/m2 and 400MJ/m2.

Buildings with a low fire risk can be assumed to have a specific calorific mass of less than
400MJ/m2, or buildings that contain a low amount of combustible material.

The simplified method considers three types of risk:

• Loss of human life R1;
• Loss of public service R2;
• Loss of cultural heritage R3.

Once each of these risks has been calculated, the value is compared with a tolerable risk TR,
assuming that the tolerable risks for each of the risks are:

For Risk R1: 10-5

For Risk
R2 and R3: -310

If the calculated risk is higher than tolerable, protective measures must be implemented,
otherwise the building is considered to be self-protected and does not need protection.
Note: for more information on the simplified risk calculation, please see the
Portuguese Electrotechnical Institute's Guide to Risk Assessment -
Simplified Method.

PAGE 49/109
12.5 ANNEX A.5 - DIRECT LIGHTNING PROTECTION INSTALLATIONS

12.5.1 Capture devices

Captors are classified into two main types: passive (or conventional) and active. According
to this classification, two different standards are used: for passive systems, the NP EN 62305-
3 standard should be used and for active (or ionizing) systems the NP 4426 standard.

Passive capture systems (NP EN 62305-3):

• Single-rod lightning arresters (often called Franklin) - SRLA;
• Cages or meshes;
• Stretched wires (or guard cables).

Active capture systems (NP 4426):

• For ionizing rays;

The choice of captor depends on the characteristics of the building to be protected.

[Link] Radius or protection zone of an SRLA

The radius or protection zone of either system depends on the level of protection chosen.

Single rod lightning arresters (NP EN 62305-3):

A single rod lightning arrester (SRLA) must have a height of at least 1 m and can even reach
10 m using extension masts that fit together. Increasing the height of the lightning arrester
increases the radius of protection, but this increase is not infinite.
This system is based on local protection (cone of protection defined by the angle method)
and is used to protect small structures such as telecommunications towers and chimneys.
The angle of protection method defines the lightning protection provided by a single-rod
lightning arrester, based on the difference in height between the tip of the lightning arrester
and the surface to be protected, and the level of protection recommended for the LPS.

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The protection radius of the rod
will be:
Rp=tg(α)*h

Where:

h is the difference in height between the top of the capture tip and the surface to be
protected, α is an angle obtained from the graph (of standard NP EN62305) below.

FIGURE 10 – Protection Radius of a Single Rod

It is important to realize that the radius of protection provided on the roof of the building will
be different from that provided on the ground, since the radius of protection varies according
to height.
The protection angle method is suitable for small buildings. The height of the lightning
arrester is shown in the graph above as a function of the protection level.

FIGURE 11 – Example of a Franklin Rod Protection a Roof Element and Protection Angles

PAGE 51/109
Depending on Height

PAGE 52/109
[Link] Cages or meshes

Cages or meshes consist of protecting the building by installing a mesh of capture

conductors, the maximum spacing of which is defined by the level of protection
recommended for the LPS.
The maximum size allowed for the mesh grid is defined in the table below:
TABLE XVI - MAXIMUM MESH SIZE

LPS class Mesh size

[m]
5x5
II 10 x 10
III 15 x 15
IV 20 x 20

The mesh method is, for example, suitable for protecting flat surfaces.

A mesh of conductors will only protect what is under the mesh, but cage or mesh systems
are often equipped with small capture tips (less than 1 m high), whose effect of attracting
lightning is slightly greater than that of the conductors that make up the cage, although the
capture function is also delegated to the latter. Capture tips also prevent the effects of arcing
from occurring near an LPS conductor and the roof itself.
The mesh/cage system distributes the electric current of the lightning strike among the
various down conductors, and this distribution will be all the better the narrower the meshes.
LPSs with the largest number of roof and ground conductors are recommended when
induction phenomena are feared (for example, the presence of electronic devices, computers
or even explosive areas in a building).

Legend:
W - Mesh size according to
Table 2 of NP EN 62305-3

FIGURE 12 – Mesh Cage

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[Link] Guard cables (or catenary or stretched wire)

Guard cables (Figure 13) are horizontal conductors installed far away from the building to be
protected. This is known as an isolated protection system. This type of installation is very
efficient because it keeps the lightning current away from the structure, reduces the risk of
arcing (sparking between the LIDS and a structural element) and reduces electromagnetic
effects. This system does not need to be as enmeshed as a mesh cage, because as long as
the dummy sphere rests on the stretched wires without touching the structure, the structure
is protected.
However, this system does have some limitations, such as aesthetics and the length of the
driver's compartment.

FIGURE 13 – Example of a Guard Cable over a Structure

[Link] Active Systems - Lightning Arresters with Ionizing Device (LID)

Lightning Arresters with Ionizing Devices (LID) are also known as Early Streamer Emission
(ESE).
These are lightning arresters which, under the same conditions as a single rod lightning
arrester, have the capacity to generate a faster upward tracer. In practice, a LID of the same
size as a PHS leads to a faster onset of the upward discharge, which according to some
authors can be represented by a larger protection radius or, for an identically protected
lightning strike, by a significant increase in the reliability of the single-rod arrester.
There are different devices for improving the efficiency of single-rod lightning arresters.
Note: radioactive lightning arresters have been banned by law since 1986.

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These lightning arresters are validated by laboratory tests (according to the NP 4426 standard)
or in nature, and their effectiveness ΔT is given in microseconds (µs). The maximum value of
ΔT allowed for the calculation of protection radii is 60 µs, even when the value of the test
results is higher.
Protected zone, protection radius of a LID
The protected area is delimited by the protection radius, corresponding to the different heights
h considered (ex. h of the roof and h1 of the base of the building) and whose axis is the same
as that of the lightning rod (see Figure 14).

hn - corresponds to the height of the end of the

LDI lightning rod in relation to the horizontal
plane of the highest point of the object to be
protected
Rpn - is the radius of protection of the LID for
the height hn considered.

FIGURE 14 – Protection Radius (Assuming H1 ≥ 5 M)

The protection radius of a LID is linked to its height (h) in relation to the surface to be
protected, its ionizing advance time and the protection level selected (see Annex A of NP
4426).It is calculated according to the calculation methodology presented in NP 4426:

PAGE 55/109
Manufacturers present tables with the protection radii for the different levels, as a function
of the useful height in the horizontal plane of the highest point of the object to be protected,
in relation to the different advance times to ignition of the LID.
LIDs are products that are not powered, and their energy is derived solely from the
surrounding electric field, which becomes increasingly important as the descending leader
approaches the ground. Some use an electrical circuit, others an electronic circuit and some
use a particular shape at the end of the LDI or a combination of these solutions.

Some LIDs are equipped with solar panels, but the aim is not to promote discharge, but to
power a monitoring device on the LID to monitor its status remotely.

[Link] Capture by natural components

Some parts of the structure can be used as capture, as long as they comply with the
conditions provided in standard NP EN62305-3. They are mainly sheet metal or pipes or
protection guards.
ANNEX A.4 shows a table of the main differences between an LPS, according
to NP EN 62305-3 (ex. single rod lightning arresters) and NP 4426 (ionizing
lightning arresters).

PAGE 56/109
12.5.2 Isolated LPS
A new concept has emerged in recent years, which consists of maintaining the advantage of
physical isolation between the LPS and the protected structure. Insulation means that the
discharge current never goes through the structure to be protected. There are isolated
systems that are physically isolated from the structures, but there are also systems that are
in contact with the structures to be protected. In this case, insulated cables should be used
for the down conductors. Capture is made by a lightning rod that rests on an insulating mast,
which is itself fixed to the building's structure. The down-conductor(s) are connected to the
lightning conductor and subject to compliance with a number of rules that depend on each
manufacturer. Insulated cables are supplied for an equivalent separation distance in air, the
preferred equivalent separation distances being 25cm, 50cm, 75cm and 100cm, in
accordance with IEC TS 62561-8. Depending on the actual conditions of the installation, other
values (lower or higher) may be required. The principle of such cables is based on a similar
principle to underground medium-voltage cables, considering the specifics of lightning
strikes. It should be noted that this type of cable does not reduce the magnetic field and,
therefore, in the event of movement in the building, it should be kept away from sensitive
systems and cables connected to these systems.

The components of an isolated LIDS of this type must meet the

requirements of the IEC TS 62561-8 technical specification.

12.5.3 Lateral lightning

For buildings over 60 m, the possibility of discharges must be taken into account, and the
last 20% of the façades must be protected using the capture device considered for the roof.
In the lower part of the building (the remaining 80%) only down conductors are considered,
while in the upper part (the last 20%) the conductors are capture conductors.
The measures to be implemented on the 20% of façades must comply with the requirements
of the chosen capture system standard.

PAGE 57/109
12.5.4 Capture and down conductors
Its function is to conduct the lightning current from the lightning rod to the earthing system.
In view of the heating due to the passage of discharge currents, small conductors can be
used. In practice, other restrictions must be considered, such as the risk of mechanical
damage or corrosion, as well as electrodynamic forces. In addition, the conductors on the
roof and in the lower level must not be damaged by direct shocks from discharges.
Other specific requirements that are not considered in this text are
defined in NP EN 62305, NP EN 62561 and NP 4426.

The materials and dimensions of the down conductors must comply with
the NP EN 62561 series of standards.

PAGE 58/109
TABLE XVII - Material, configuration, section, diameters and thicknesses of capture conductors, passive air capture tips,
earthing electrode and down conductors

Material Configuration Section a) mm2 Recommended dimensions

On solid strip ≥ 50 2 mm thick

Solid round d) ≥ 50 8 mm diameter

Copper,
Tinned copper b)
Braided f) ≥ 50 1.14 mm to 1.7 mm braid diameter

Round solid rod h) ≥ 176 15 mm thick

On solid strip ≥ 70 3 mm thick

Aluminum Solid round d) ≥ 50 8 mm diameter

Braided f) ≥ 50 1.63 mm braid diameter

Copper-coated
Solid round ≥ 50 8 mm diameter
aluminum alloy

On solid strip ≥ 50 2,5 mm thick

Solid round d) ≥ 50 8 mm diameter

Aluminum alloy
Braided f) ≥ 50 1.7 mm braid diameter

Solid round rod h) ≥ 176 15 mm diameter

On solid strip ≥ 50 2,5 mm thick

Hot-dip galvanized Solid round d) ≥ 50 8 mm diameter

steel
Braided f) ≥ 50 1.7 mm braid diameter

Solid round rod h) ≥ 176 15 mm diameter

Copper-plated steel e) Solid round ≥ 50 8 mm diameter

On solid strip ≥ 50 2,5 mm thick

On solid strip i) ≥ 50 2 mm thick

Solid round i) ≥ 50 8 mm diameter

Stainless steel c)
Braided f) ≥ 70 1.7 mm braid diameter

Solid round rod h) ≥ 176 15 mm diameter

PAGE 59/109
a) Manufacturing tolerance: -3%.
b) Hot-dip plated or galvanized; coating with a minimum thickness of 1 µm. There is no need to measure tinned
copper because it is only used for aesthetic reasons.
c) Chromium ≥ 16 %; Nickel ≥ 8 %; Carbon ≤ 0.08 %.
d) 50 mm2 (8 mm diameter) can be reduced to 28 mm2 (6 mm diameter) in certain applications where mechanical
strength is not an essential requirement. In this case, consideration should be given to reducing the spacing
between fixings.
e) Minimum 70 µm radial copper coating with 99.9% copper content.
f) The cross-sectional area of stranded conductors is determined by the resistance of the conductor in accordance
with IEC 60228.
g) If the earth electrodes are partially installed in the ground, it must meet the requirements of Table 2 and Table
3 of EN 62561-2.
h) Applicable to capture rods and earth electrodes. For capture rods for which mechanical stress, such as wind
load, is not critical, a rod with a diameter of 9.5 mm and a length of 1 m can be used.
i) If thermal and mechanical considerations are important elements, then these values should be increased to 75
mm2.

Note: This table does not dispense with reading EN 62561-2.

For how to apply the conductors, please see NP EN 62305-3 and NP 4426,
depending on the type of SPF.
Insulated cables can be used if they comply with the tests of EIC/TS 62561-
8:2018 and the requirements of NP EN 62503-3.

According to the NP EN 62305-3 standard, conductor fixings are normally installed every 50
cm for tapes and every 1 m for solid round conductors, which are more rigid. Some standards,
such as NP 4426, require distances between fixings, in the latter all 33cm.
The down conductor must be installed so that its path is as short and direct as possible, in
accordance with the requirements of NP EN 62305 for passive systems and NP 4426 for
active systems (LID).

[Link] Number of down conductors

The number of down conductors in an LPS is related to the separation distance required.
Down conductors should, wherever possible, be installed at the corners of the building to
be protected.

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Two down conductors are considered independent if they are at least 2 m apart, and it is
tolerated that the path is identical over a length equivalent to 5 % of the total length of the
shortest down conductor.
The installation rules for down conductors must be in line with the installation rules for the
captors used.
Special attention should be paid to LPSs installed in contact with
combustible materials.

[Link] Non-insulated LPS

The number of down conductors should not be less than two and should be distributed around
the perimeter of the building to be protected, in accordance with the constraints of the
architecture and with uniform spacing.

• For a mesh cage, the number of down conductors is determined by the level of
protection and the separation distance. The usual value is provided in Table XVIII.

TABLE XVIII - Usual distance between power supplies in a cage/mesh

LPS protection level Separation between down

conductors [m]
I 10
II 10
III 15
IV 20

• For an SRLA, the number of down conductors is fixed by the separation distance
with a minimum of 2;
• For lightning rods with an Ionizing Device, the number of down conductors is
fixed by the separation distance, with a minimum of 2.

Notes:
• If there are several SRLA installed on the roof and they are connected
to each other, two down conductors may be sufficient.
• in the event that there are several LIDs installed on the roof and they
are interconnected, the minimum number of drops must be at least
equal to the number of LIDs installed.

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[Link] Isolated LPS
For an isolated LPS, the number and location should be:
• If the capture device consists of rods on separate masts (or a single mast), at least
one down conductor must be provided per mast;
• If the capture device consists of overhead line wires, at least one down conductor
is required for each overhead line support;
• For an insulated LPS with SRLA, the minimum number of down conductors is 1;
• For an insulated LPS with LID, the minimum number of down conductors is 1.

Notes:
• when the lightning arrester is installed on a metal structure, this can replace
one of the down-conductors.
• the natural components must have a low permanent impedance. It may
be necessary to add a specific down conductor in accordance with
standard NP EN 62561-2 in order to achieve this low impedance.

FIGURE 15 - Example of an insulated system with guard cables

[Link] Down conductor route

Down conductors should, wherever possible, be installed outside the building.

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When a down conductor cannot be installed outside the building, it can be installed inside,
for part or all of the height of the building. In this case, the installation rules defined for the
capture device used must be considered.
The owner of the installation must be informed of the difficulties involved in checking and
maintaining down conductors and the corresponding risks of overvoltages inside the
building.

[Link] Natural components

Some metallic components of the structure, such as concrete reinforcement (for the latter,
we ensure that continuity is obtained during construction before the concrete is injected and
once completed, that the resistance between the end points between the top and the ground
level is less than or equal to 0.2 ohm if the capture is done by a passive system and 0.1 if it
is LID); the metallic coatings can be used as down conductors if their continuity between the
point of connection to the capture and the point of connection to earth is good and durable
and they can replace all or part of a down conductor. If there is any doubt about the
conductivity, a measurement must be made and the resistance value measured must not
exceed the values described in the standards for the capture device used.
The cross-section of natural components must be at least 50 mm², but this requirement is
often exceeded for natural components.
Other specific requirements are defined in NP EN 62305, NP EN 62561 and
NP 4426.

[Link] Down conductors mechanical protection

In the case of an ILPS (NP 4426), whenever the lower levels are accessible, they must be
protected against mechanical shocks with protective rails up to a height of at least 2 m above
ground level.

[Link] Removable connector

Each down conductor must be equipped with a removable connector to allow the earthing
system to be disconnected and measurements to be taken.
If natural components are used as the down conductor, the removable connector will be
installed in the manhole near the down conductor.

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[Link] Sensitive buildings
Some buildings are equipped with critical installations, with a greater risk of damage in the
event of a lightning strike, such as explosive atmospheres, and should be classified with
protection levels I + and I ++. In these cases, it will be necessary to implement level I
protection measures plus additional protection measures. These measures must comply with
the respective standard for the capture system in question.

12.5.5 Separation distance

The separation distance is an important part of the design of an LPS.
The separation distance is referred to as "s" and guarantees electrical insulation between
the capture device or the down conductors and the metal parts of the structure connected
to earth, the equipment connected to earth and the electrical or data networks. It is essential
to control the separation distance in the path of the LPS's down conductors in order to avoid
impact on these elements.
The separation distance is equal to 0 at ground level, because at this level the electrical
earthing, the building earthing and the lightning earthing must become equipotential, even
for an isolated LPS. The separation distance is maximum at the highest point of the capture
device.

The separation distance depends in particular on the number of down conductors and the
more down conductors there are (evenly distributed along the periphery of the structure)
the more the separation distance will decrease. The separation distance also depends on the
level of protection, the length of the down conductors, the insulating material between the
LPS conductor and the equipment in question.
The generic formula for calculating the separation distance is as follows:

Where:
ki depends on the level of protection;
kc of the current distribution in % between the various roof and down conductors; km
depends on the insulating material;

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l is the shortest length following the LPS conductors between the point considered for
calculation and earthing (the most unfavorable case, in the example, is the point at the end
of a SRLA, Figure 16).
The separation distance can be from a few cm to a few tens of cm to values of a few m for
tall buildings or long buildings.
In practice, the most difficult parameter to calculate is kc, because when there are more
than two down conductors, it is almost always necessary to use specialized software. When
there is only one down conductor (only possible for an insulated LPS), kc is 1 (100% of the
current will flow through this conductor). When there are two down conductors of identical
length, kc is equal to 0.5 (50% of the current in each conductor), but when the length of the
two down conductors is different, the kc distribution can approach 100% if the second down
conductor is very long.

The following figure shows the separation distance principle for two objects (an electrical
device and a metal tube) located at two different places in the structure (corresponding to
two different discharge down conductor lengths l1 and l2 with l1> l2 and therefore s1 > s2). In
this example, the SRLA is in the center and therefore kc = 0.5. It should be noted that the
separation distance is critical for objects located outside the structure, but must also be
considered inside the structure, when the structure is not surrounded by a metal plate.

Power
supply cable

Metal pipe

FIGURE 16 - Principle of separation distance

The NP EN 62305-3 and NP 4426 standards define the values to consider

for ki, km and the formulas for calculating kc.

PAGE 65/109
12.5.6 Earthing network
The main function of the earthing network in a protection system is to drain the currents of
discharges in the ground and protect people by minimizing the potential of the earthing
electrode. Earthing also plays an essential role in protecting people and indoor electrical
equipment. To guarantee this second function, an earthing network must meet precise
specifications and must be made with the utmost care. The buried conductors will be of the
same cross-section and type as those used as down conductors, but aluminum should not
be used due to the risk of corrosion.
An earthing network consists of a set of buried conductors, horizontally in a trench, or
vertically in the form of earth pickets, at a minimum depth of 50 cm. The total length of the
buried conductor depends essentially on the nature of the soil, which determines its
resistivity, and the thickness of the various layers of soil (clay, marine, sandy, granite, humus
layer over rocky soil, etc.). When the soil has good conductivity, the earthing can often only
be made by means of "crow's feet", i.e. three cables buried horizontally in a star, each 3 m
to 5 m long, and connected to each lightning conductor. If the deep layer is a better conductor
than the surface layer (for example, because it is damp), these crowbars will be
supplemented by pickets (vertical electrodes).

Specific earthing near each down conductor is called, in the NP EN 62305-3 standard, Type
A earthing. Having two electrodes per earthing is important to reduce impedance.

Three electrodes, as the crowbar earthing is called, is not necessary, even

though it is still a useful solution.

Another recommended form of earthing is a ring electrode (this can be the foundations of
the building, a solution that is only possible if it is carried out during the construction of the
building). This solution is described by the generic term type B earthing electrode. However,
it should be noted that for a structure with a large surface area, in the event of a lightning
strike, differences in potential may arise between the different earthing points in the ring, as
the current is not distributed equally between all the down conductors.
To improve the distribution of potential along the earthing circuit, an earthing mesh should
also be built under the building.

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 FIGURE 17 - Type a earthing system FIGURE 18 - Type b earthing system

In the case of a mesh cage, the ideal earthing electrode is the ring earthing electrode, as it
allows all the down conductors to be interconnected to the same reference, promoting the
distribution of lightning currents in all the meshes.
The lightning earthing network, in whatever form, must be connected to the building's
earthing (electrical earthing) at each of the down conductor to ensure equipotential bonding.

For a long time it was assumed that an LPS's earthing network should have a value of less
than 10 ohms, but this presents two fundamental problems:
• The origin of the 10 ohms figure has never been explained;
• Lightning is a high-frequency phenomenon and, in this respect, the proper
assessment of an earthing network is made through its impedance and not its
resistance.

A low-resistance earthing network can have a high impedance depending on its shape.
For passive systems, the NP EN 62305-3 standard allows the use of values higher than 10
ohms if certain sizing conditions are met, as well as the configuration of the earthing
network. The following can be designed: a Type A or B earthing network. In the Type A
configuration, the length l1 of each buried electrode corresponds to the figure below, which
gives this length according to the level of protection and soil resistivity. For the Type B
earthing grid, l1 represents the radius of the circle which has an area equivalent to the
surface of the earthing network grid; in this case, if the calculated l1 is not at least equal to
the l1 in the figure, the surface is not sufficient, it is advisable to add type A electrodes whose
length will compensate for the missing length in the table obtained from the surface of the
ring.

PAGE 67/109
FIGURE 19 - Minimum length of each earthing electrode according to LIDS protection level and
soil resistivity

In order to reduce the resistance value and at the same time the impedance of an earthing
electrode, it is advantageous to use pickets instead of strips in trenches.
In practice, a picket is twice as effective as a horizontal electrode at low and high
frequencies. It is also possible to use an effective earthing improvement product in
accordance with the NP EN 62561-7 standard.

Note: in the case of NP 4426 we cannot use the previous figure and we
must respect the requirements of this standard.

In the case of LIDs, the NP 4426 standard makes it a mandatory requirement for the
resistance value of the earthing network to be less than or equal to 10 ohms, in order to
ensure that the LID works properly. Type A and type B earthing networks can also be used.
If the value of 10 ohms cannot be obtained, additional measurements must be taken, and the
earthing will be considered compliant if all the buried electrodes have a length of 160 m for
level I and 100 m for the other levels. The length of each electrode should not exceed 8 m.
12.5.7 LPS components: the NP EN 62561 and CLC TS 50703 series of standards
The components of an external LIDS must comply with the NP EN 62561 and CLC TS 50703
standards where applicable.

PAGE 68/109
Other components must comply with other standards, such as surge protectors (61643 series
standards) and LID(NP 4426).

12.5.8 People's Protection

When, under normal conditions, people are present in the vicinity of the down conductors of
an LPS, there may be a risk to life, even if the LPS has been designed and built in accordance
with the requirements mentioned above.
The stresses to which people in the vicinity of the LPS are subjected are contact/touch
voltage and step voltage. Measures must therefore be taken to reduce these risks.
The risk is reduced to a tolerable level if one of the following conditions is met:
• Measures against contact/touch voltages:
a) under normal operating conditions, there are no people within 3 m of the down
conductors;
b) the "natural" down conductor system consists of at least 10 columns of the metal
structure of the building/structure, or at least 10 interconnected steel pillars of
the structure, with electrical continuity ensured;

Note: in cases where minimizing step and contact potential is essential, it is

recommended that a detailed calculation be carried out using suitable
software.

c) the ground contact resistance, within a radius of 3 m around the down

conductor, is not less than 100 kΩ in a typical step area (0.02m2).

Note: a layer of insulating material, ex. asphalt, 5 cm thick, generally

reduces the risk to a tolerable level.

If none of these conditions are met, protective measures against injury to humans
due to contact voltages must be adopted, as follows:
a) the insulation of the down conductor, whereby the insulation must withstand a
shock voltage of 100 kV, 1.2/50 μs, ex. cross-linked polyethylene with a minimum
of 3 mm;

PAGE 69/109
 If the insulation is tested, the resistance must be considered in humid
conditions.

b) physical restrictions and/or signs to minimize the likelihood of contact with

down conductors.

Signaling must comply with the relevant standards (ISO 3864-1).

• Protection measures against step voltages:

Under certain conditions, the proximity of down conductors can be dangerous to life,
even if the LPS has been designed and built in accordance with the rules mentioned
above.
The hazard is reduced to a tolerable level if one of the following conditions is met:
a) under normal operating conditions, there are no people within 3 m of the down
conductors;
b) the "natural" down conductor system consists of at least 10 columns of the
metal structure of the building/structure, or at least 10 interconnected steel
pillars of the structure, with electrical continuity ensured;
c) the contact resistance of the topsoil within a radius of 3 m around the down
conductor is not less than 100 kΩ.

A layer of insulating material, ex. asphalt, 5 cm thick, usually reduces the

risk to a tolerable level.
Note: in cases where the step and contact potential are essential, it is
recommended that a detailed calculation be carried out using suitable
software.

If none of these conditions are met, protective measures against injury to humans
due to step voltages must be adopted as follows:
a) equipotential bonding by means of a mesh earthing system;

PAGE 70/109
 For more information, please see NP EN 62305-3 Annex D and NP
standard
4426.

b) physical restrictions and/or signaling to minimize the likelihood of access to

the dangerous area, within 3 m of the down conductors.

Signaling must comply with the relevant standards (please see ISO 3864-1).

The aim of the measures against step voltages is to limit the maximum step voltage for
humans to 25 kV, under an impulse current of 10/350 µs for a 1 m step.

12.5.9 Equipotential Bonding

The LPS must be equipotential with:
• the metal structure;
• metal installations;
• interior systems;
• the external conductive elements and the lines connected to the structure.

When an equipotential bonding is made between the LPS and one of these elements, it must
be considered that part of the lightning current will go through this element.

Lightning equipotential bonding between external conductive elements:

• In the case of an insulated exterior LPS, the bonding should only be made at
ground level;
• In the case of a non-insulated exterior LPS, equipotential bonding must be
carried out at the following locations:
a) underground or approximately at ground level;
b) where the insulation requirements are not met (distances less than distance
"s").
Equipotential bonding must be carried out using:
• equipotential bonding conductors if a natural continuity is not obtained;

PAGE 71/109
 • insulation protector in accordance with NP EN 62561-3, equipotential bonding kits;
• surge protectors if equipotential bonding via conductors is not possible.

The minimum values of the equipotential bonding sections between the busbars and earthing
are shown in Table XIX.

TABLE XIX - Minimum dimensions of conductors bonded to different equipotential

bonding bars or between equipotential bonding bars and earthing

Cross-
Level of protection Material section
mm2
Copper 16
I to IV Aluminum 25
Steel 50

The minimum values of the equipotential bonding sections between the metallic installations
and the bars are shown in Table XX.

TABLE XX - Minimum dimensions of the boding conductors between the internal metal elements and the
main removable connector

Cross-
Level of protection Material section
mm2
Copper 6
I to IV Aluminum 8
Steel 16

For external conductive elements, the lightning equipotential bonding must be established
as close as possible to the point where the current enters the structure to be protected.
The equipotential bonding conductors must withstand part of the lightning current.
If an LPS is installed, equipotential bonding between the LPS and the internal networks is
compulsory and must be carried out by means of Type 1 surge protectors, which must be
sized according to the level of protection, the current distribution in the structure to be
protected and the type of network.

PAGE 72/109
12.5.10 Lightning strike counter
The discharge meter (counts the number of impacts on an LPS) is essentially used to monitor
the LPS and must comply with NP EN 62561-6 standard.
The lightning current meter can be installed on one of the down conductors just above the
earth metering box or on the earth conductor of the Type 1 surge protector.

12.6 ANNEX A.6 - DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AN LPS USING A LID (NP4426) AND AN LPS WITH
SINGLE ROD LIGHTNING ARRESTER (NP EN 62305-3)

With the exception of capture, the LID-based LIDS uses almost the same rules and
components identified above. However, there are some differences, the main ones being
listed in Table XXI.
TABLE XXI - Differences between an LPS using a lid (np4426) and an LPS with a single-rod lightning
arrester
LID SRLA
Radius of protection depending on the formula Radius of protection depending on the level of
that relates the advance  the level of protection and also the height above the area
protection and the height of the LID above the to be protected
Capture zone to be protected
Tip must be at least 2 m above the objects to be No minimum, and sized according to the area
protected to be protected
Non-insulated LPS down conductors: at least Non-insulated LPS: at least two down
two down conductors per LID. conductors for the protection system
In the case of more than one LID, the down regardless of the number of SRLA
conductors can be shared if the LIDs are
interconnected, respecting the requirement of
having at least n down conductors= n LIDs
If it is a building/structure over 60 m, protection of If it is a building/structure over 60 m, protection of
Down the last 20% and at least four down conductors (one the last 20%.
conductors at each corner) connected to each other
If the structure is metal (natural component) R < If it is a metal structure (natural component) no
0.1 ohm measurement, except if it is reinforced concrete
R
< 0.2 ohm

Less than 10 ohms, unless it can be Less than 10 ohm or l1 length electrodes given by a curve
demonstrated that this is not possible, in which depending on soil resistivity and protection level
case a minimum total length of 160 (for
protection level I) or 100 m (for other levels),
Earthing never exceeding 20 m in length per conductor.
network
Earthing ring usable if less than 10 ohms and if Earthing ring usable if the radius is greater than
each down conductor is connected to a horizontal l1 given by a curve according to the resistivity of
electrode 4 m long or a stake 2 m long the earth and the level of protection or if it is
less than 10 ohms

PAGE 73/109
12.7 ANNEX A.7 - INTERNAL LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM

Dependence on electrical and electronic equipment continues to increase, both in

professional and private life. Data networks in companies or emergency facilities, such as
hospitals and fire stations, are vital lines for exchanging essential information in real time.
Sensitive databases need reliable transmission paths.

It is not just lightning that poses a latent threat to these systems. Electronic devices are often
damaged by overvoltages caused by remote lightning strikes or by switching operations in large
electrical systems.

12.7.1 Overvoltage protection through equipotential bonding

If the electrical devices are subjected to a high potential difference or overvoltage, the
insulation may break and/or the voltage may increase, causing the equipment to be
destroyed. Surge protective devices (SPDs) are like an open switch, connected to the
equipotential system, which safely "short-circuits" the voltage surges before a destructive
insulation failure occurs.
Surge protection is part of the equipotential bonding system and protects against insulation
failure, preventing a short circuit and reducing the risk of fire. Also during storms, large
volumes of energy are released instantaneously. These voltage peaks can penetrate a
building through all kinds of conductive connections and cause enormous damage.
Means of protection in a structure include coordinated surge protectors, shielding of the
structure or cables and circulation of conductors to minimize loops.
• Connecting all metallic conductive elements to a common earthing is a
requirement for reducing surges in the structure;
• Type 1 surge arresters are sized by calculating the current distribution; the other
surge arresters (Type 2) are defined by coordination with Type 1 arresters;

PAGE 74/109
 • The lightning protection zone concept allows for a systematic approach to
indoor lightning protection.

12.7.2 Equipotential bonding systems

The correct use of equipotential bonding systems avoids dangerous contact/touch voltages
between the various components of the system.
A distinction is made between "protective equipotential bonding" and "additional
protective equipotential bonding".

• Protective equipotential bonding

All metal/conductive parts entering the building must be connected to each other
to avoid potential differences.

Connection of all metal parts/conductors entering the building to the main

earthing busbar:
a) Foundation earthing electrodes;
b) Earthing electrodes for protection against lightning strikes;
c) Conductor for protective equipotential bonding;
d) Protective conductors within the electrical system;
e) Metal, water and gas pipes and heating lines;
f) Antenna earthing electrodes;
g) Metal parts of the building, ex. air conditioning ducts, elevator guides, etc.;
h) Cable shielding.

• Additional protective equipotential bonding

The lightning protection equipotential bonding is an extension of the general
protection equipotential bonding. This is achieved by using surge protection
devices to create an additional equipotential compensation system for all the
supply circuits of the low-voltage and information technology system.
Equipotential bonding must allow for:
a) insulation of conductors;
b) the bonding must be dependable;

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 c) the bonding should only be undone using tools.

For installations under special environmental conditions, ex. potentially explosive

areas, or where specific legislation applies, an additional protective equipotential
bonding must be implemented.

All metal parts of fixed (non-portable) equipment must be connected to the additional
protective equipotential bonding in order to avoid accidents caused by unexpected
contacts or simultaneous contacts with several pieces of equipment.

[Link] What to equipotentialize

To avoid potential differences, the following system components must be interconnected via
the main earthing busbar with cables for equipotential bonding in accordance with IEC
60364-5-54:
• Metal pipes and conduits (conductors);
• Other conductor components;
• Protective conductors;
• Earthing electrodes.

The main earthing busbar must be located in the main bonding area or close to the building
bonding. In each building, the earthing cable and the conductor parts described below must
be connected to the protective equipotential system via the main earthing busbar:
• Metal cable tray for the building's power supply system;
• Conductive parts outside the building structure;
• Metal parts of the metal central heating and air conditioning system;
• Electrical system protective conductors;
• Rebar iron for reinforced concrete buildings.

Protective equipotential bonding cables must comply with the requirements of IEC 60364-
441/IEC 60364-5-54. In the equipotential bonding of lightning protection, the equipotential
bonding cables must be rated for higher currents. Cross-sections must be designed in
accordance with EN NP 62305.

PAGE 76/109
[Link] Requirements for equipotential bonding:
• It must be possible to insulate conductors;
• The bonding must be dependable;
• It can only be undone with tools.

FIGURE 20 – Equipotential System in a Building

[Link] Equipotential bonding according to IEC 60364-4-41 and IEC 60364-5-54

Protective conductors must be adequately protected against mechanical damage, chemical
or electrochemical destruction, as well as electrodynamic and thermodynamic forces.
Switching devices must not be inserted into the protective conductor; however, connections
are permitted for testing purposes.

PAGE 77/109
All metal/conductive parts entering the building must be connected to each other to avoid
potential differences.
The cross-sections of the equipotential bonding conductors must comply with the dimensions
provided in the tables in section 12.5.9 of this Technical Note.

[Link] Potentially explosive areas

Systems in potentially explosive areas require equipotential bonding in accordance with IEC
60079-14. All electrically conductive parts must be connected to the equipotential system.

12.7.3 Surge protection system for power supply systems

Very high voltage peaks are caused by lightning strikes on or near power systems. Even at
a distance of several hundred meters, lightning currents can also cause inadmissible
overvoltages through capacitive, inductive or galvanic coupling. Major voltages can be
coupled within a radius of up to 2 km.
Switching operations involving inductive charges create dangerous overvoltages in medium
and low voltage power networks.

[Link] Types of overvoltage

Transient, temporary and permanent overvoltages represent the three main types of
overvoltage.

[Link] Transient overvoltages

Transient peaks are short-duration voltages that last for microseconds. Lightning strikes
and switching operations generate transient overvoltages that can be avoided with surge
protection devices (SPDs).

[Link] Temporary and permanent overvoltages

Temporary or permanent overvoltages occur due to faults in the electrical grid power supply.
For example, a break in a neutral cable can generate an unacceptable increase in voltage in
the three-phase power system. The voltage exceeds the maximum permitted nominal
voltage, the electronic devices will be damaged and the surge protection devices

PAGE 78/109
(SPDs) installed may not protect against these long-term network faults. Electrical grid
failures of this kind can last from several seconds to several hours.

[Link] Overvoltages of atmospheric origin (LEMP: Lightning Electromagnetic Pulse)

The international lightning protection standard IEC 62305 describes how direct hits of up to
200 kA can be safely diverted to earth. The current is coupled into the earth system and, due
to the voltage drop in the earth resistance, half of the electric current is coupled into the
internal installation. The partial current of the lightning strike is divided between the power
lines entering the building, while around 5% enters the data cables. The voltage drop in the
earthing resistance is calculated from the product of the partial discharge current (i) and
the earthing resistance (R). This is then the potential difference between the local earthing
system (equipotential bonding) and the active cables, which are earthed some distance from
the installation.

[Link] Switching operations (SEMP: Switching electromagnetic pulse) Switching

operations occur due to the switching of large inductive and capacitive charges, short
circuits and interruptions in the power supply system. They are the most common cause of
overvoltages. These overvoltages simulate discharge currents of up to 40 kA (8/20 μs).
Sources include, for example, motors, ballasts and industrial charges.

[Link] Static discharges (ESD: Electrostatic discharge)

Electrostatic discharges are caused by friction. When a person walks on a carpet, charge
separation occurs - in this case, it is harmless to humans. However, it may interfere with
and destroy electronic components. The equipotential bonding is necessary to avoid this
separation of charges.

12.7.4 Protection against transient overvoltages of atmospheric origin

Part 4 of the lightning protection standard NP EN 62305 describes how to protect electrical
and electronic systems. The IEC 60364 safety and installation standards also stipulate that
surge protection measures are required as an important protective measure in low-voltage
systems.

PAGE 79/109
[Link] Concept of lightning protection zone
The concept of a lightning protection zone (LPZ) is described in international standard IEC
62305-4. The lightning protection zone concept is based on the principle of gradually
reducing overvoltages to a safe level before they reach the terminals of electrical/electronic
equipment and cause damage. To do this, the entire energy network of a building is divided
into lightning protection zones. A zone is an area or section of the building in which all the
equipment requires the same level of protection. The equipotential bonding is created at each
transition from one zone to another. The metal parts will be connected directly to the
equipotential system, while the surge protection corresponding to the class of requirements
(Type 1, 2 or 3) will be installed between the active conductors and the earthing potential.

[Link] Advantages of the lightning protection zone concept

• Minimization of overvoltage couplings in other cable systems by discharging
dangerous lightning currents to earth directly at the point of entry into the
building and at the point of transition of the cables between zones;
• Local equipotential bonding within the protection zone;
• Reduction of breakdowns due to magnetic fields;
• Economical and easy-to-design personal protection concept for new, old and
reconstruction buildings.

Legend:
LPZ - Lightning protection zone
PDS - Power distribution
system
SPD - Surge protection
device

FIGURE 21 – Subdividing a Building into Protection Zones

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To reduce internal overvoltages in the structure, the solution is a system of coordinated
surge arresters. However, it is possible to use other means to reduce the overvoltages
induced in the structure, such as:
• The circulation of conductors to reduce the area of the loop, particularly between
networks of a different nature (for example, for a modem connected to a telephone
line and a power supply);
• The shielding of cables in continuous, equipotential and closed cable trays or by
circulating them in metallic trays;
• Shielding the structure with reinforced concrete plates or rebars.

However, these measures only reduce induced overvoltages and do not allow for the
treatment of conducted overvoltages along the conductors. A protection zone includes surge
protectors at the entrance of conductors into the zone and possibly a reduction of the
magnetic field by shielding. The protected structure is in protection zone 1 and the external
zones are in protection zone 0 (0A if the object is outside the zones protected by the LPS and
OB if the object is in the protected zone but exposed to the maximum magnetic field). Zone 1
is only effective in reducing the magnetic field if there is shielding, but even without
shielding, equipotential bonding surge protectors reduce conducted overvoltages. The
internal zones (rooms or equipment) in the structure constitute higher-level zones, always
with surge protectors at the zone entrance (Type 2 surge protectors in this case) and possibly
additional shielding.

[Link] Type/class of surge protection devices

According to IEC 61643-11, SPDs (surge protection devices) are divided into three
types/classes - Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3 (classes I, II and III). This standard contains rules,
requirements and tests for surge protection devices used in AC networks with rated voltages
up to 1,000 V AC and rated frequencies between 50 and 60 Hz.

[Link] Type 1 and combined Type 1 + 2 surge arresters

When a building is protected by an LPS, the surge protectors to be installed at the entrance
to the lines in a structure are called Type 1 or equipotential bonding protectors. They are
usually installed parallel to the external power lines.

PAGE 81/109
Type 1 surge arresters are tested in the laboratory by simulating a direct discharge with a
waveform of 10/350 μs.
There are combined surge arresters, called T1+2, which meet Type 1 (class I) and Type 2 (class
II) and must also meet the requirements for 8/20 µs test waves. The most common protection
level for Type 1 arresters is 2500V.

[Link] Type 2 surge arresters

Type 2/class II surge arresters are used in switchboards and partial switchboards. The
protection devices must be used before a residual current protection device (RCD), as
otherwise it would interpret the overvoltage current as a residual current and interrupt the
supply circuit. Voltage surges are simulated with test pulses, usually 20 kV with a waveform
of 8/20 μs. To protect sensitive equipment, the protection level must be lower than 1.500 V.

[Link] Type 3 surge arresters

Type 3/class III surge arresters are used to protect against inductive coupling and overvoltages
derived from switching in the device's supply circuits. Voltages surges are simulated with hybrid
test pulses of up to 20 kV and 10 kA with the combined waveform in voltage 1.2/50 μs and in
current 8/20 μs. To protect sensitive equipment, the protection level must be lower than 1.500 V.

The surge protection concept must take into account all electrically conductive bonding and
must be structured in a cascade. Each level of the protection cascade builds on the previous
one and reduces the energy of the overvoltage.

For effective protection, the protection level of the SPDs must be chosen on the basis of the
insulation voltage (Uw) of the electrical system to be protected according to IEC 60364-5-53
and taking into account the installation rules (see article and the voltage drop on the
conductors connecting them).

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[Link] Choice of surge protection devices
The classification of surge protection devices into types means that they can be related to different
requirements regarding location, protection level and discharge current capacity. Table XXII
provides an overview of the transition zones. It also shows which surge protection devices should
be installed in the power supply grid and their function.
When several cascade surge arresters are used, they must be coordinated (see item
[Link]).

[Link] Sizing of Type 1 arresters

Type 1 surge arresters are subject to lightning impulse currents and must be sized according
to the building's discharge current distribution.

It is considered that when a lightning strike hits an LPS, generally 50% of the electric current
circulates in the LPS's earth connection and 50% of the electric current circulates in the other
elements connected to the structure (pipes, power network and telecommunications network,
etc.).
It is estimated that the telecommunications network can only handle 5% of the electric current,
taking into account its impedance. The power grid, on the other hand, can flow up to 50% of the
electric current evenly distributed between the different conductors (phase and neutral). Other
studies show that it is the neutral that is hit (2 to 5 times more than the phases). The figure of
50% is a maximum value and, in many cases, this figure is almost equal to 30% of the initial
discharge.

The calculation of the current in each of the input circuits is made by calculating the current in
each of the bonded route trays, starting from a homogeneous distribution of 50% of the initial
discharge current between all the route trays. A tray can include more than one cable and is
characterized by the fact that it is bonded on one side to the structure under study and on the
other side to another structure (for example, a substation). In the same route, the current
flowing is determined assuming a homogeneous distribution between all the cables.

The minimum impulse current to be considered for a lightning surge arrester (Type 1) on the
supply network is 12.5 kA 10/350 µs per pole.

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Example:

1 Lightning strike 100% Iimp=max.200KA (NP EN 62305)

2 Earthing system +- 50% I=100 KA (50%)
3 Electrical Installation +- 50% I=100 KA(50%)
4 Data cables +- 5% I=5KA (5%)

FIGURE 22 - TYPICAL ELECTRIC CURRENT DISTRIBUTION OF A LIGHTNING STRIKE

Example of earthing system splitting: 50%-50% i =

50 KA ; R = 1 Ohm
U = i x R = 50000 A x 1 Ohm = 50000V

Where:
U - Overvoltage
i - Lightning current R - Earthing resistance

The insulation voltage of the components is exceeded and an uncontrolled electric arc
occurs. Only lightning surge arresters can safely prevent these dangerous voltages.

PAGE 84/109
[Link] Protection level (Up) of surge arresters
A surge arrester is defined, among other parameters, by its level of protection.
A surge arrester must limit the voltage to a value lower than the insulation voltage of the
equipment to be protected.
The protection level of a surge arrester is the maximum instantaneous value of the voltage
at its terminals when subjected to the rated discharge current. If the actual discharge
current is lower than the rated discharge current, the voltage at its terminals is also lower
and consequently so is its protection level (better protection).
TABLE XXII - TRANSITION ZONES

Transition Zone Protection device and type of device

STD for protection against lightning surges according to NP EN 62305 for
direct or nearby lightning strikes Devices: Type 1/Class I or Type 1 + 2/Class I
LPZ 0 B to LPZ 1 + II
Required protection level: 2.5 Kv
Installation, ex. in the LVGS / at the building entrance
SPD for equipotential bonding according to IEC 60364 in case of
overvoltage. Devices: Type 2 (class II),
LPZ 1 to LPZ 2
Protection level required: 1.5 kV
Installation, ex. in partial boards / floor boards
Surge protection to protect terminal equipment from overvoltages.
Devices: Type 3 (class III)
LPZ 2 to LPZ 3 Required overvoltage resistance: 1.5 kV
Installation, for example directly on the terminal equipment

[Link] Coordination of surge arresters

The surge protectors placed at the entrance of the installation, for equipotentiality with the
LPS, must be high energy, as part of the discharge current will flow through them. However,
in most cases it is not able to guarantee a good level of protection at the same time. In this
case, this input surge protector should be combined with other surge protectors with a lower
level of protection (thus offering better protection) and lower flow capacity, installed as close
as possible to sensitive equipment. The coordination of these surge protectors must be
carefully studied, as there is a risk that the surge protector with the lowest protection level
will be destroyed before the upstream surge protector can react.
• the discharge circulates in the installation, which can generate induced
overvoltages: EMC protection is not guaranteed;

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 • the second surge protector is generally not designed to withstand high-amplitude
discharges and risks being damaged, while the surge protector is intact. It is also
likely that the equipment is not protected and will be destroyed by this overvoltage.

As coordination between two surge protectors can be complex to study, it is often minimized
or even ignored in installations. In general, it is recommended to follow the surge protector
manufacturer's instructions regarding coordination. This obviously means that only one
manufacturer should be used for the surge protectors in a protected circuit.
Normally, a coupling element is used, which can be a length of line or an inductor. Some surge
protectors can be coordinated with very short lengths (1 m or less).
So-called two-port surge protectors have been developed, which largely eliminate the need
for a cascade.

For a long time, coordination between surge protectors was based solely on energy
coordination. As long as the surge protector downstream of the main surge protector did not
break, the situation was considered satisfactory. However, once the rated discharge current
of a Type 2 surge protector is exceeded, the voltage may exceed the guaranteed protection
level. Therefore, it is not enough for energy coordination to be obtained, it is also necessary
for the level of protection coordination to be achieved. In other words, the voltage level at
the second surge protector remains below the protection level indicated on the identification
plate.
You can even go further: if coordination is good, you can have a current at the level of the
downstream surge protector that is much lower than its rated discharge current and,
therefore, a voltage lower than the protection level displayed. This technique tends to spread
and should be based on the calculation method proposed by the manufacturer of the two
surge protectors. Very good levels of protection are thus obtained thanks to a cascade with
two or even three surge protectors, whereas it would be difficult to find such low levels of
protection on the market. Based on this approach, much better PSPD protection probabilities
are obtained than the values normally proposed by the NP EN 62305-2 standard.

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 Equipment in
the origin of
the installation
Equipment as
part of the
fixed the
installation Equipment to
be connected
to the fixed Equipment that
installation requires
special
protection

Ex. Partial Sensitive

Ex. Inlet board board equipment

FIGURE 23 - Example of SPD cascade type

[Link] Installation rules

The recommended length of the connection cables for surge arresters is a significant aspect
of the installation rules.
To ensure adequate protection of systems and devices, the maximum overvoltage that can
occur must be less than or equal to the insulation voltage of the devices to be protected. The
sum of the protection level of the surge arresters and the voltage drop in the supply lines
must remain below the insulation voltage. To minimize the voltage drop in the power line,
the length and therefore the inductance of the cable should be kept as low as possible. The
standards recommend a total length for the cable connecting to the surge arrester of less
than 0.5 m.

Maximum power line length according to IEC 60364-5-53: L1 + L2 ≤

0.5, where:
L1 = Distance between F/N bus and SPD
L2 = Distance between the SPD and the protective busbar

PAGE 87/109
 Main Earthing Terminal

FIGURE 24 – 50cm Rule

According to IEC 60364-5-53, cables with a cross-section of at least 16 mm² of copper,

capable of conducting lightning currents, are required to install Type 1 or 1 + 2 surge
arresters. Type 2 surge arresters must be installed with copper conductors with a minimum
cross-section of 4 mm² or a minimum commercial cross-section of 6 mm².
In addition, the maximum short-circuit currents that occur at the installation site and the
installation's neutral regime must be taken into account.

In order for a Type 2 surge arrester to protect equipment, it must be installed as close to it
as possible (conductor length between SPD and equipment <10m). When a surge arrester is
installed at a wiring length greater than 10m, there is usually a doubling of its Up protection
level and consequently a degradation (in most cases: ineffectiveness) of the protection.
Note: for more information about rules of installation
for surge arresters, please see the guide CLC TS 61643-12.

[Link] Protection against SPD failures

Surge arresters can fail in several ways.
Certain types of surge arresters (MOV) can fail for thermal reasons due to the stress to which
they are subjected. These surge arresters must be equipped with internal overcurrent and
thermal protection devices. The device will indicate a fault in the SPD.

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Another failure mode of the surge arrester is short-circuit failure. To protect against short-circuit
faults, it is necessary to install external short-circuit protection (fuses or circuit breakers) on the
surge arrester branch or take into account existing protection in the installation upstream of the
arrester. For the protection to be effective, the shock resistance of the external protection must be
the same as that of the surge arrester.

The table below shows the size of the external fuses to be associated with the surge arrester,
depending on its discharge current.

TABLE XXIII - Size of fuses/surge arresters

Wave type 8/20 µs Wave type 10/350µs (Type 1)

Fuse gG (A)
(Type 2)
8 1.2 0.3
10 1.5 0.3
12 2.1 0.5
16 3.1 0.7
20 4.6 1.0
25 6.4 1.4
32 9.9 2.2
40 13.5 2.8
50 15 3.4
63 19 4.2
80 25 5.6
100 33 7.3
125 42 9.6
160 57 13
200 72 16
224 83 19
250 96 22
315 123 28
400 157 35
500 200 45
630 267 60

Note: in the case of Type 2 surge arresters, the table also applies to circuit
breakers.

Sometimes the surge arrester manufacturer may indicate other values for the fuses/circuit
breakers.

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In many cases, the maximum external circuit breaker declared by the SPD manufacturer or
in the table above cannot be used, and a lower rating is required to achieve selectivity
between the upstream cut-off element and the circuit-breaker to be associated with the
SPD. For example: if the installation is protected by a 25 A fuse, there is no benefit in
installing a 160 A fuse below to protect the SPD.
The external circuit-breaker can also be useful for maintenance on the surge arrester
installation.
Some manufacturers have a range of surge arrester with an integrated circuit-breaker (fuse or cut-
off switch).

[Link] Protection circuit

Power Source Telecommunications

MSR Lines Other data lines

FIGURE 25 - Protection circuit

Only an effective protection circuit providing uninterrupted surge protection can prevent
dangerous potential differences in devices/systems. When implementing a surge protection
concept, it is necessary to obtain information about the devices and system components to
be protected and, where possible, group them into lightning protection zones (LPZs).
Circuits that need to be incorporated into the equipotential bonding system:
• Power lines;
• Network and data cables;
• Telecommunication cables;
• Antenna cables;
• Control cables;
• Metal pipes (ex. water and drainage pipes).

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Cables must be incorporated into the local equipotential bonding system directly or using
suitable surge arresters. The best lightning and surge protection system is useless if all the
electrical and metallic lines that enter the building or the protection circuit are not included
in the protection concept.
TABLE XXIV - Quick guide to choosing SPD in different situations

Location
Partial Boards - Before
Medium protection terminal
Entry/Main
Type of Building (only required if equipment -
board
distance >= 10m) Fine
protection
Building without external
lightning protection (ex.
Private buildings,
Multifamily buildings,
Industry, Commerce) SPD type II SPD type II SPD type III

Buildings with external

lightning protection (ex.
Residential buildings, office
buildings, commercial SPD type
buildings, industry, etc...) I Or SPD type II SPD type III
SPD type I + II
Building with external
lightning protection

Buildings with an air

supply (Ex. Residential
buildings, office buildings, SPD type
commercial buildings, I Or SPD type II SPD type III
industry, etc...) SPD type I + II

PAGE 91/109
12.7.5 Surge protection systems for information and data technologies.

[Link] Basic principles

Nowadays, communication systems and IT (Information Technology) are important in every
field. Overvoltages caused by galvanic, capacitive or inductive coupling in data cables can
destroy IT and communication technology equipment. To avoid such failures, appropriate
protective measures must be taken.
In practice, the wide range of telecommunications and metering systems often makes the
selection of the most suitable surge protection device complex, so the following factors must
be taken into account:
• The connection system of the protective device must be suitable for the device
to be protected;
• Parameters such as the highest signal level, highest frequency, maximum
protection level and the installation environment must be taken into account;
• The protection device must cause minimal impact (attenuation and/or reflection)
on the transmission line.

[Link] Protection principle

A device is only protected against overvoltages if all the power and data network cables
connected to the device are integrated into an equipotential system at the transitions of the
lightning protection zone (local equipotential bonding).

[Link] Data and information technology standards

Several standards play a role in the field of data and communication technology. From
structured cabling in buildings, through equipotential bonding, to Electromagnetic
Compatibility (EMC), several different standards must be taken into account.
Some important standards are defined according to IEC 61643-21-22, EN
61000-4-5; EN 60728-11.

PAGE 92/109
[Link] Comparison of protection systems
Like the overvoltage protection devices used in power supply, data and communication cable
protection devices are also classified per type or class.

TABLE XXV – Comparison of Protection Systems

Power supply Data and communications

protection cable protection

Test standard IEC 61643-11 IEC 61643-21

Application principles IEC 61643-12 IEC 61643-22

LPZ 0B/1 (10/350 μs) Type/Class I Type/Class D1

LPZ ½ (8/20 μs) Type/Class II Type/Class C2

LPZ 2/3 (8/20 μs) Type/Class III Type/Class C2/C1

[Link] Topologies
In information technology, devices communicate electrically via cables that can have various
configurations; these configurations are called "topologies". The surge protection concept to
be selected must take into account the topology of the system and its connections. The most
common topologies are presented, as well as an indication of where to position the surge
protection devices in each case:

BUSBAR topology
In a busbar topology, all users are connected in parallel. At its end, the Bus must be
terminated with the corresponding impedance. Typical applications are 10Base-T, 100Base-
TX, 1000Base-T, (100Base-T is the most widely used) and telecommunication systems such
as ISDN and xDSL.

PAGE 93/109
 1 Terminals

2 Surge arrester

FIGURE 26 – Busbar Topology

Star Topology
In star topology, each workstation is supplied by a separate cable from a central point in the
star (HUB or Switch). Typical applications include 10BaseT and 100BaseT.

FIGURE 27 - Star Topology

1 Server

2 Switch/Hub

3 Surge arrester

Ring Topology
In the ring topology, each workstation is connected in a circle, meaning that each workstation
has at least two adjacent devices through which data can go through. In this topology, the
data flow is unidirectional. If one station fails, the entire network will fail.

PAGE 94/109
 1 Server

2 Surge arrester

FIGURE 28 - Ring Topology

[Link] Interference with information technology systems

Lightning currents and overvoltages can be coupled to data cables in different ways.
Overvoltages and lightning currents can be transmitted directly by the discharge or through
cables in which the interference factors are already coupled.
As overvoltages can occur even without lightning strikes, for example due to switching
operations in the power supply network, terminal devices and cables need to have a certain
insulation voltage to allow the device or cable to remain in service after a brief overvoltage
impulse. The following table shows typical insulation voltage values for common terminal
equipment/cables.
TABLE XXVI – Typical Insulation Voltage Values

Example of
Typical insulation
Applications Level of
voltage values
protection
Telecommunication terminals 1.5 kV < 600 V
Measurement and control terminals 1 kV < 600 V
Telephone handset cable
• Wire-wire 0.5 kV < 300 V
• Wire-shield
Installation cable - telecommunication systems
• Between pairs of conductive wires 0.5 kV < 60 V
• Shielded cable 2 kV < 600 V
Installation cable - tubular wire - intercoms Between conductor wires
< 800 V
Shielded conductor wires
1 kV < 60 V
1 kV < 600 V

PAGE 95/109
 CAT7 cable
• Between pairs of conductive 2.5 kV <120 V
wires 2.5 kV <700 V
• Shielded cable
Data cable installations
• Between pairs of conductive wires 0.5 kV < 60 V

• Shielded cable 2 kV < 800 V

Jumper wire - telecommunication distribution board 2.5 kV < 1 kV
Profibus cable 1.5 kV < 800 V
Coaxial cable 50 Ohm 2 kV - 10 kV < 800 V
Coaxial cable 75 Ohm 2 kV < 800 V
Fire alarm cable
• Between pairs of conductive wires 0.8 kV < 60 V
• Shielded cable 0.8 kV < 600 V

[Link] Galvanic coupling

When a lightning current, ex. in case of an impact, goes directly through the cable, this is
known as galvanic coupling.
If a lightning strike falls and the discharge current flows to earth via the external lightning
protection system, approximately 50% of the lightning current enters the building through
the building's equipotential bonding system and is therefore galvanically coupled.
Coupled lightning currents are not always due to the external lightning protection system.
As a rule, any external cable that enters the building can carry lightning currents, for
example, a discharge in a substation or an exposed cable connected to the building. The
discharge current can also enter the building via the telecommunications cable.
Surge protection devices conduct the induced electric current in the input cables towards
earth via an equipotential bonding system.
The coupled electric current has high energy and high frequency. Due to the 10/350 μs
waveform curve, this type of coupling is short-lived.
It must be ensured that all supposed protective elements in the cables entering the building,
such as shields, rodent guards, etc., are connected to the equipotential bonding system in
such a way as to carry the discharge current to earth.

PAGE 96/109
 1 External lightning protection system
2 Earthing system
3 Main earthing busbar
4 Transmitter
5 Data cable with electric current

FIGURE 29 – Galvanic Coupling

[Link] Inductive coupling

When a current flows through a conductor, it creates a magnetic field around it. If the
discharge current is strong, the magnetic field is correspondingly greater and can couple to
conductors or rings of conductors located nearby. Remote lightning strikes also emit
electromagnetic waves that can be coupled into conductor rings.
This induces an overvoltage that can damage equipment connected to the conductors. In data
conductors, this usually results in the destruction of electronic components connected to the
conductors.
If the communication cable is located within the magnetic field of an electrical conductor, an
interference voltage can be induced. The magnitude of the interference voltage induced in
the communication cable depends on the magnetic field conductor and the structure of the
communication cable. A shield on the communication cable can considerably reduce the
magnitude of the induced interference.

PAGE 97/109
 1 Data cable server

1 Power
2 Frequency
3 Time

FIGURE 30 – Inductive coupling resulting from a lightning strike

1 Data conductor

2 Power conductor

1 Power
2 Frequency
3 Time

FIGURE 31 – Capacitive Coupling by Parallel Cables

PAGE 98/109
 1 Current conductor
2 Ring conductor
3 Variable Magnetic Field
4 Induction surface

FIGURE 32 – Induction in a Ring Conductor

[Link] Capacitive coupling

Capacitive coupling occurs where there is a voltage between two points with a large
potential difference.
Charge is transferred through the medium between the two points in an attempt to
balance the potentials, which creates an overvoltage.

PAGE 99/109
 1 External lightning protection system
2 Earthing system
3 Main earthing busbar
4 Transmitter
5 Capacitive coupling
6 Data conductor

FIGURE 33 – Capacitive coupling due to direct impact

[Link] Building and shielding an area

Critical infrastructures such as data centers, power plants, chemical factories and electricity
and water supply systems can be protected from the effects of electromagnetic waves by
creating shielded areas.
This is achieved by covering all the walls, ceiling and floor with conductive materials (ex.
steel sheets or copper foil). Doors and windows must be connected to the wall shield by
means of spring contacts. All cable glands must also be shielded.
Due to the parasitic capacitances Cp, the current IS flows through the transmitter to ground.
The resulting interference voltage overrides the input voltage and interrupts signal
transmission. Parasitic capacities occur, for example, in the HF (High Frequency) range.

To keep losses to a minimum, it is important to check the transmission characteristics of the

cables.

PAGE 100/109
The transmission characteristics can be determined using suitable measuring devices. The
important thing is that the measuring device, the connecting cables and the surge protection
device have the same impedance, to avoid excessive reflection and attenuation at the joints.
Calibration of the measuring equipment is also necessary so that the measurement results are
not distorted.
The main transmission losses can be: insertion loss, return loss, cut-off frequency, VSWR
(Voltage Stationary Wave Ratio), bandwidth, symmetrical and asymmetrical data transfer.

[Link] Conductor shielding

The conductors are shielded with metal shielding or braids or a combination of the two. Foil
shields are particularly effective at high frequencies, while braided shields are more suitable
for low frequencies.
Existing conductors can also be shielded using earthed cable trays or a metal pipe system.
The conductor shield must be earthed at both ends.
If, for technical reasons, ex. to avoid 50Hz earthing loops, a direct connection of the cable
screen at both ends is not possible, one end must be earthed directly and the other indirectly.
When creating a direct earthing connection via a gas discharge arrester, in normal operation
the cable shield is insulated at one end. If a large coupling occurs, the potentials can be
equipotentialized via the gas discharge protector.

[Link] Protection of telecommunications equipment

When choosing a surge protective device to protect a system or telecommunication
equipment, we must check the following characteristics:

Type of telecommunications system, in particular:

• Polarity;
• Number of wire connections required;
• Maximum permissible continuous voltage of the surge protection device;
• Maximum permissible charge current of the surge protection device;
• Supported frequency range;

PAGE 101/109
 • Installation location and mounting options (adapter connector, etc.);
• Class of protection required (basic protection, fine protection, combination
protection).

An inadequate surge protection device can damage the application itself, for example by
causing excessive attenuation of the signal circuit. On the other hand, if the system voltage
or charge current exceeds the characteristics of the surge protection device, the protection
device can be destroyed due to overloading. We must therefore check the maximum voltage
and current supported by the protective device and the priming voltage that will pass to the
equipment to be protected.

[Link] Installation of data cable protection devices

If the cables are too long, there will be a voltage drop due to the high inductance, which will
have a negative impact on the protection level of the surge protection device. The level of
voltage protection can increase so dramatically that the insulation voltage of the terminal
device is exceeded and the device is damaged, despite the presence of surge protection.

[Link] Other means of overvoltage protection for telecommunications systems

Equipotential bonding of data cables
Unlike power technology, longitudinal and transverse voltages occur in data technology and
must be minimized by using suitable lightning arresters with voltage-limiting components.
To achieve low-voltage protection levels, these protection devices must be incorporated as
directly as possible into the equipotential bonding system. Long cable lengths should be
avoided. The best solution is a local equipotential bonding. The shield's complete action
against capacitive and inductive coupling can only be effective when the shield is included
with low impedance on both sides of the equipotential bonding.

[Link] Surge protection for potentially explosive areas

Surge protection is an important topic in potentially explosive areas. It is important here to
protect the measurement technology against the influence of overvoltages due to lightning
strikes. Sensitive measurement technology, whose

PAGE 102/109
cables are often installed outdoors, are particularly exposed to overvoltages and lightning
strikes.

[Link] Telecommunications
Today, telecommunications are used in all kinds of different applications. Many people associate
the term "telecommunications" only with the traditional telephone, but the spectrum is much
broader. Telecommunication means the transmission of data (internet), video transmission (cable
television) and other data and video services, over a substantial distance, of any type of
information through technical infrastructures. This includes everything from high-speed fiber
optic transmissions to sending a simple fax.

The following circuit diagram shows how a typical ISDN/ISDN/analog + DSL connection
can be protected.

1 Protection device
2 Protection device
3 NTAB
4 Splitter
5 Router/HGW

Figure 34 - Circuit diagram

As can be seen in the figure above, in order to protect equipment from overvoltages, the
protective device must be placed as close as possible to the equipment to be protected.
These protection devices can be Type 2 or 3 or combined 2 and 3, considering that there is
already Type 1 protection at the entrance to the building.

PAGE 103/109
[Link] Coaxial overvoltage protection devices with gas discharge protector
The first type are coaxial overvoltage protection devices with a gas discharge tube. They
allow the transmission of a frequency of 0 Hz (DC). They can be used in a wide range of
applications. The gas discharge pipe can also be replaced in the event of a defect. Due to the
capacity of the gas discharge pipe, they are limited in their bandwidth: the cut-off frequency
is currently around 3 GHz. In Wi-Fi networks, according to the IEEE 802.11 standard, with a
working frequency between 2.4 GHz and 5.9 GHz, surge arresters with gas ampoules cannot
be installed on the transmission line, as they attenuate the signal in this frequency range.

[Link] Protectors with Lambda/4 technology

The second variant is the surge arrester with Lambda/4 technology. These suppressors are
band-pass filters that only pass frequencies within a specific range. For signals outside the
supported frequency range, this type of arrester is a galvanic short circuit. The advantages
of this technology are: its support for frequencies up to around 6 GHz and its very low
protection level of approximately 30 V. They also require virtually no maintenance because
they do not use a gas discharge protector.
The disadvantage of these devices is that it is not possible to transmit the DC supply voltage
along the signal line, and their application is generally limited to just one application,
depending on whether the required frequencies are within the supported frequency range.

[Link] Satellite systems according to IEC/EN 60728-11

Satellite systems and antennas are often in exposed locations on roofs, close to lightning
arresters. For this reason, lightning arresters must be used to protect these systems from
direct lightning strikes, to prevent them from serving as lightning capture systems
themselves. Ideally, the satellite antenna should be located within the angle of protection of
the lightning arrester. In this case, the risk of a lightning strike directly on the SAT cables is
almost zero if the separation distance is respected.

PAGE 104/109
With the proper coordination of lightning and surge protection components, lightning
currents and surges can be safely controlled.

If there is no external lightning protection in the building, the exposed satellite system runs
the risk of attracting a direct lightning strike, such as a lightning arrester.
If the separation distance between the LPS and the antenna is not respected, there will be an
arc between the LPS and the antenna, and part of the AC current will go through the antenna.
In both cases, class D1 surge protectors are required in addition to overvoltage protection.
In addition to the normal antenna earthing of 4 mm², the antenna system must be additionally
connected to the main earthing busbar by means of a copper earthing conductor of at least
16 mm².

If a risk analysis according to IEC/EN 62305-2 is not possible, then static atmospheric
voltages (ex. lightning) can cause arcing from the 16 mm² earth conductor to the electrical
installation or antenna system of the building. For this reason, we recommend making the
earthing conductor insulated and resistant to high voltages and fluctuating discharges
through appropriate measures.

[Link] Some useful explanations

Data technology
Data technology is used in a wide range of applications, from the simple installation of a printer
connected to a PC to complex networks with several thousand clients. In all cases, careful
planning of overvoltage protection measures is required, taking into account the available data
interfaces.

Ethernet
Ethernet is the standard technology for networked computer systems today. Specified data
transmission rates currently range from 10 Mbit/s to 10 Gbit/s, and data can be transmitted
over classic copper cables and fiber optic cables.

PAGE 105/109
Interfaces
External devices such as printers, scanners and control systems activated via serial or
parallel interfaces should be integrated into the surge protection concept in addition.
There are a variety of interfaces for different applications: from BUS lines for
telecommunications and data transfer to simple terminal devices such as printers or
scanners.

RS232 interface
RS232 is a frequently used interface. It is used, for example, for modems and other
peripherals. Although now largely replaced by the USB interface, RS232 is still frequently
used for control lines.

RS422 interface
RS422 is a high-speed serial interface suitable for communication between a maximum of
ten users, which is designed as a busbar. The system can be designed for a maximum of
eight data lines, although two are always used as sending and receiving lines.

RS485 interface
The RS485 industrial busbar interface differs slightly from RS422 in that RS485 allows
several transmitters and receivers (up to 32 users) to be connected via one protocol. The
maximum length of this busbar system, when twisted pair cables are used, is approximately
1.2 km with a data rate of 1 Mbit/s (dependent on serial controllers).

Primary cabling
Primary cabling is used to connect building complexes (horizontal). The connection point is the
building distributor (BD). Primary cabling can be characterized by long cable lengths due to the
location of different buildings. The speed of the connection also plays an important role. In order to
achieve fast transmission rates, fiber optic technology is often used as the transmission medium in
primary cabling, which offers higher data rates than cables

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and is also less susceptible to interference from electromagnetic impulses.

Secondary cabling
Secondary cabling connects the individual floors of the building to each other (vertical). Floor
distributors are directly connected to the building distribution network and at the same time
offer connection opportunities for the various terminals/sockets. Here, too, fiber optic
technology is used as the transfer medium.

Tertiary cabling
In tertiary cabling, fiber optic cables can be used as a transmission medium as an alternative
to copper network cabling. Tertiary cabling is the cabling that connects terminal
devices/connecting sockets with floor distributors within a building floor (horizontal). We are
dealing with the use of various means of transmission. In the fiber up to the table, the floor
distributor and the terminal device are connected by a fiber optic cable. However, the most
widespread option is the classic twisted pair cable connection.

[Link] ITED structured network layout

Below are some images of the ITED network to illustrate the points where lightning
protection should be installed in a building.
As in the examples shown, Type 1 protection should be installed in the ATE and Type 2 or 3,
or combined 2 and 3, should be installed as close as possible to the equipment to be
protected, to prevent inductions from occurring downstream of the protection and not
providing the total protection desired.
If it is an installation with an upper and lower ATE, Type 1 protection should be installed on
both ATEs and Type 2 or 3, or combined 2 and 3, should be installed as close as possible to
the equipment to be protected, to prevent inductions from occurring downstream of the
protection and not providing the total protection desired.
In the case of a single-family dwelling, Type 1 protection should be installed in the ATI and
Type 2 or 3, or a combination of 2 and 3, should be installed as close as possible to the
equipment to be protected, to prevent inductions from occurring downstream of the
protection and not providing the total protection desired.

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 Source: ANACOM ITED Manual
PTI: establishes the boundary between the collective network and the
individual CVM pipe network: Multioperator Manhole
ATE: Building Telecommunications Cabinet

Figure 35 - Example of two buildings with CVM, pipe installation in two different layouts, with and without
upper ATE

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Author:
Liliana Ferreira - ANEPC
Filipe Mariquito - ANEPC
Francelino Silva - ANEPC
Ana Antunes - ANEPC
Rogério Dias - Directorate General for Energy and
Geology Lacerda Moreira - Portuguese Lighting
Center Jorge Martins - Portuguese Electrotechnical
Institute Daniel Ribeiro - AGEFE
Luís Pinto - AGEFE Jorge
de Castro - CTE 37 Nuno
Mendes - CTE 37
Fernanda Cruz - CTE 81
Nuno Silva - CTE 81
João Bacalhau CTE 37 and 81

Revision:
Directorate of Building Fire Safety Services Regulation,
Standardization and Accreditation Division

Publication date: October 2022

Available: in PDF format on the ANEPC website ([Link])

NATIONAL EMERGENCY AND CIVIL PROTECTION AUTHORITY

Av. do Forte - 2794-112 Carnaxide | scie@[Link] | [Link]

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