Lightning offers a split-second glimpse into the natural world’s immense power.
It flashes across the sky, illuminating the ground like it’s daytime. It superheats the air so much that you can hear the rolling thunder from miles around. And it’s potentially deadly to anyone who stands in its path.
The more people understand the true risks of lightning, the better equipped we all are to protect properties and save lives.
Our mission is to educate the community about these things, arming you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and stay safe. That’s why this article addresses and debunks some of the most common myths surrounding lightning and lightning protection systems, shedding light on the facts. Let’s get into them.
Dispelling misconceptions about lightning protection
Here are five non-truths we often hear about lightning protection and lightning protection systems.
You might have come across these myths before, so let’s put things straight:
Myth #1: Lightning rods attract lightning
Fact: Lightning rods don’t attract lightning.
Instead, they provide a ‘preferred path’ for the electrical discharge to reach the ground. Since lightning is more likely to ‘travel down’ a lightning rod than any nearby structures, it keeps them safe. For instance, imagine a lightning rod on top of a tall building. When lightning strikes, it will bypass the building and reduce the risk of it sustaining damage. Of course, without an effective earth (grounding) terminal, the rod is useless.
This myth arises partly because people often envision lightning starting in the sky and moving downwards until it hits the earth. This isn’t strictly true. The electrically charged particles that make up lightning are already in the air, objects and living beings. A lightning strike rebalances all these charges with the earth.
Myth #2: Lightning protection systems guarantee 100% protection
While lightning protection systems significantly reduce the risk of your property suffering damage from a lightning strike, nothing can offer absolute protection. There are too many variables, including the storm’s severity, the quality of the parts and the unpredictability of lightning itself.
Proper installation, maintenance and careful adherence to safety standards are essential to giving you the best odds possible. One thing is sure: a structure with a lightning protection system is far safer than one without. That’s why having your system installed and maintained by qualified professionals is crucial. They have the knowledge and experience to ensure the system is correctly installed and working as it should.
Myth #3: Lightning protection is a one-time installation
Lightning protection systems aren’t a ‘one-off-and-leave-it’ type deal. They require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure continued effectiveness. In fact, if you have a lightning protection system, by law you must get it tested and serviced every 12 months. This job should be carried out by qualified experts such as ourselves, who can provide you with legal certificates showing your test results and compliance. Without such measures, corrosion, damage and other natural environmental factors will compromise the system’s effectiveness. There’s no way to avoid this. Like any other critical system (such as your car), regular servicing and maintenance is the only way to ensure its continued functionality.
Myth #4: Lightning never strikes the same place twice
‘Lightning never strikes twice’ is a commonly touted myth. But it’s wrong.
Lightning can and does strike the same spot multiple times. This is especially true for tall structures such as skyscrapers, towers and monuments, where a point near the top might see multiple strikes per year. In other words, just because your building has been hit by lightning before doesn’t mean it won’t happen again.
However, if it does, an effective lightning protection system can minimise the impact.
Myth #5: Certain structures are immune to lightning strikes
No structure is immune to lightning strikes. It can hit anywhere. With that said, some materials are less conductive than others, meaning the ‘path of least resistance’ that lightning takes is unlikely to be through them. However, almost all buildings contain some conductive materials – metal sidings or roofs, electrical wiring etc. So, there’s always a chance that lightning could strike anywhere.
The safest location to find yourself during a lightning storm is a structure that mirrors a Faraday cage. A Faraday cage is made of conductive materials that divert lightning around the edge and safely into the ground. It’s like a protective shell that keeps the lightning outside. A parked car or van with the engine switched off is a good example of this. Even then, there’s no need to take unnecessary chances.
The importance of following scientifically proven methods
When it comes to lightning protection, we strongly recommend relying on scientifically proven methods. These things have been tried and tested. We know how effectively they work (and that nothing is 100% effective). They adhere to industry standards and guidelines, meaning top professionals have offered their thoughts and advice, and you won’t be held liable if anything goes wrong. On top of that, you can rest assured that your property and anyone in or around it is as safe as physically possible.
As mentioned on this page, investing in high-quality, scientifically trusted lightning protection systems is the best way to mitigate lightning risks. Have them installed by recognised industry professionals (with evidence of qualifications and certifications). Finally, ensure the system receives regular inspections and maintenance (at least annually).
What can Lightning Protection Testing UK do for you?
While they might seem like harmless trivia, myths and misinformation about lightning protection systems can be dangerous. When a storm comes, we want everyone to know the safest ways that science recommends you act, so you can prepare in advance.
That’s where we come in. At Lightning Protection Testing UK, we’ve been installing, maintaining and advocating for the best lightning protection systems for over twenty years. Our team’s extensive experience, spanning various sectors from airports to stately homes and health centres to business parks, instils confidence in our ability to handle any project. We’ll work closely with you and your team to develop a tailored plan that aligns with your needs, budget, responsibilities and insurance requirements. We look forward to working with you. Don’t miss out; get in touch today for an obligation-free, friendly chat and estimate.
