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Nowadays Bangladesh experiences some of the most intense and frequent lightning activity in the world, making the installation of a lightning protection system (LPS) a critical safety and financial measure. But while you are decided to install a Lightning Protection System without expert contractors for your structure you need to read this post.
Why Expert Contractor is Required.
Installing a lightning protection system (LPS) might seem straightforward at first glance. Place rods on the roof and run wires to the ground. However, this critical safety infrastructure is far from a do-it-yourself project. It requires precise adherence to complex engineering standards to function correctly when a massive electrical charge hits your building.The Hidden Complexity of LPS Design
An effective LPS design isn't just about placing a few rods on a roof. It involves a meticulous, standards-based process that unqualified contractors often overlook:
1. Adherence to International Standards (BNBC, IEC & NFPA)
Professional contractors follow rigorous national & international standards like BNBC, IEC 62305 (widely used globally) or NFPA 780 (common in North America). These standards dictate:
- Risk Assessment: Calculating the specific risk according to BNBC to identify the risk for your building based on its location, height, structure type, and surrounding environment.
- Placement Strategy: Utilizing methods like the rolling sphere method to determine exactly where air terminals must be placed to guarantee total coverage and prevent side-flashing.
- Material Specifications: Ensuring all components (conductors, rods, clamps) are made of approved, non-corrosive materials designed to handle millions of volts.
Unqualified contractors often cut corners, use substandard materials, or ignore critical placement guidelines, leaving gaps in your building's defense.
2. The Critical Role of Proper Grounding (Earthing)
A lightning rod doesn't eliminate lightning; it intercepts it and safely diverts the energy to the earth. The effectiveness of this diversion relies entirely on a professionally installed grounding system.
- Soil Resistivity Testing: Qualified professionals conduct soil tests to determine the optimal grounding configuration. Soil conditions vary widely, especially in different regions of Bangladesh (e.g., delta regions vs. high ground).
- Proper Earthing: Without a robust, low-resistance earthing system, the immense electrical charge can “backflash” into the building, causing severe damage to internal wiring, electronics, and structural components.
3. Surge Protection Device (SPD) Integration
The main strike is only part of the problem. Lightning can induce powerful electrical surges through nearby power lines, water pipes, or telephone lines.
Professional contractors ensure the integration of sophisticated surge protection devices (SPDs) into your electrical system. This comprehensive electrical surge protection is vital for safeguarding sensitive modern electronics—a step frequently ignored by amateurs.
The Risks of DIY or Substandard Installation
Hiring the wrong team or attempting a self-installation introduces severe risks:
- False Sense of Security: The greatest danger is believing your property is protected when it is not.
- Insurance Non-Compliance: Many insurance providers require documented proof that your LPS was installed and certified by qualified professionals adhering to specific safety standards. Non-compliant systems may void your policy.
- Increased Danger: Poorly installed systems can actually increase fire hazards or channel lightning energy into the building structure rather than safely around it.
Conclusion: Expertise is Your Best Defense
When dealing with a force as powerful and unpredictable as lightning, there is no room for error. We are Innovern Engineering providing professional services, provides the expertise in risk assessment, design, installation, and inspection required to install a truly effective lightning protection system.
