Not every building faces the same lightning risk, and not every building needs the same level of protection. Lightning Protection Systems, or LPS, are classified into four protection levels, each with different design requirements.
What Is a Lightning Protection Level?
A Lightning Protection Level, or LPL, describes how effective a system needs to be at intercepting and safely conducting a lightning strike. Levels range from I, the highest level of protection, to IV, the lowest.
How the Correct Level Is Chosen
The appropriate LPS class is determined through a formal risk assessment. Factors include the building’s size, location, lightning flash density in the area, the type of structure and the consequences of a strike, such as loss of life, service disruption or economic loss.
Class I: Highest Risk Environments
Class I systems are specified for sites where a lightning strike could be catastrophic, such as facilities storing explosive or hazardous materials.
Classes II to IV: Lower Risk Environments
Class II, III and IV systems apply to buildings with progressively lower risk profiles, such as standard commercial buildings, offices and residential structures.
Let Pontins Assess Your Risk Class
Choosing the wrong protection level leaves a building under protected or adds unnecessary cost. Pontins carries out formal risk assessments for South African businesses to determine the correct LPS class. Get in touch to discuss your site.