Lightning Risk Assessment

 About Lightning Risk Assessments 

This lightning risk assessment is based on the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 780 Standard and assists in determining the risk of lightning damage to particular areas and structures. In many situations the need for lightning protection is critical due to the severe consequences that could result from an unprotected lightning strike. The following examples are conditions that would require protection:

  • Where large crowds assemble
  • Where service continuity is a necessity (banks, hospitals, schools, etc.)
  • Areas of very high lightning frequency
  • Tall isolated structures
  • Buildings containing explosive or flammable materials
  • Buildings containing irreplaceable cultural heritage
  • Where loss of production, equipment , or critical data is intolerable

Seven Criteria used to Determine the Magnitude of Risk:

  1. Lightning Flash Density
    • Choose your location on the Flash Density Map
  2. Equivalent Collective Area of Structure
    • Requires building dimensions
  3. Environmental Coefficient
    • Relative location of structure
  4. Structural Coefficient
    • Type of construction materials used in the structure
  5. Structure Contents
    • Identifies value and flammability of contents
  6. Occupancy Coefficient
    • What is the danger to life?
  7. Lightning Consequence
    • Impact on environment and continuity of service

Choose the selections and fill in the information that best describes your circumstances.  The more accurate the information, the more precise the risk assessment will be.  Submit the form for a full custom analysis.  For more information please email us.