Why Do You Need Lightning Protection Companies? How They Can Help

5th May 2023

When lightning strikes, it is like Mother Nature unleashes a fiery bolt of fury that can leave buildings, homes, and other structures in ruins. And while it may seem like a rare event, the truth is that it can happen to anyone, anywhere, and at any time. But there’s hope! That is where lightning protection companies come in, the real-life heroes of the stormy skies.

With their expertise and innovative solutions, they can save your property from the devastating effects of lightning strikes.

Why Is There a Need for Lightning Protection Firms?

Lightning protection companies may not be on everyone’s radar, but they play a critical role in safeguarding properties. Here are some key reasons why these companies are essential to hire:

Advanced Technology:

Do you know some companies use cutting-edge technology to predict lightning strikes and prevent potential damage?

By monitoring weather patterns and using advanced algorithms, these companies can identify areas at high risk of lightning bolts and take proactive measures to protect against the destructive power of lightning.

Historical preservation:

Not only are historical sites priceless cultural treasures, but they also contribute significantly to local economies. A single lightning strike can result in considerable damage that is expensive to restore and might force the facility to be temporarily closed. Therefore, there is a need to have a lightning protection test to save your heritage and culture.

Skilled staff can create unique solutions that are tailored to each site’s particular requirements. Installing lightning rods, surge protectors, and other tools that safely send lightning strikes into the earth can reduce damage to the structure and its contents.

Financial Protection:

Some companies are turning to lightning protection systems to minimize their risk of injury and protect their bottom line. These devices function by offering lightning a path of least resistance, guiding it securely into the earth without endangering the structure or its contents. By doing this, they avoid the breakdown of crucial machinery like computers, servers, and electrical systems, which might cost companies tens of thousands of dollars in repairs and lost productivity.

Regulatory Compliance:

Standards and rules must be followed in various businesses. Legal consequences, financial penalties, and even damage to credibility might occur from non-compliance. For this reason, working with lightning protection firms that are knowledgeable about the most recent regulations and capable of ensuring compliance is crucial for businesses.

They are skilled at determining the particular needs of a structure and developing a lightning protection system that complies with all legal standards.

How Lightning Protection Companies Work?

Property assessment:

The lightning protection process starts with a thorough assessment of the property to determine the necessary level of protection. Experts evaluate the structure type, landscape, and electrical systems to create a customized protection plan.

Code and standard compliance:

These companies ensure their systems comply with relevant codes and standards, such as those established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for lightning protection.

Emergency Response:

In case of a thunderbolt, the firms also offer emergency response services to assess any deterioration and make necessary repairs. This includes repairing or replacing damaged components and conducting follow-up testing to ensure the system operates properly.

Education and training:

They provide training and education programs to educate property owners and managers on the importance of lightning protection and how to maintain their systems, ensuring the safety of everyone on the property.

How the Professional Will Go Through the Lightning Protection Test?

Testing a lightning protection system demands expertise, precision, and attention to detail. This intricate process requires in-depth knowledge of lightning and electrical systems and a strong commitment to safety. Here are some essential steps which every certified professional will cover.

  • Visual Inspection

The first step is a comprehensive visual inspection of the entire system. Using specialized tools and techniques, the inspector examines every component of the system, from the lightning rods to the grounding system, to detect any signs of wear and tear, corrosion, or damage.

  • Resistance Testing

The inspector measures the electrical flow through the grounding system, which provides a safe path for lightning to travel into the earth. The goal is to specify if the grounding system works properly and provides the required protection against thunderbolts.

  • Checking Connections and Components

The professional will check every connection and component to guarantee there are no breaks or discontinuities that could compromise its effectiveness. Advanced tools and techniques are used to identify issues and secure the system is in optimal condition.

  • Surge Testing

This lighting protection test involves subjecting the system to a simulated lightning strike, using high-voltage equipment to create a surge comparable in intensity to a real lightning strike. He will observe the system’s performance during the surge to make sure it can handle the massive electrical energy without sustaining damage.

  • Reporting and Certification

After completing the process, the inspector provides a detailed report of the findings, including any issues identified and addressed during the testing process. If the system passes the test, it is certified as effective and capable of providing the necessary protection against lightning bolts.

If any issues are identified during the testing process, he works with the building owner to rectify them.

How to Choose the Right Lightning Protection Company

  • Get referrals from reliable sources such as friends, family, or regional business associations.
  • Make sure that the lighting protection companies adhere to industry norms and rules and are properly licensed, insured, and certified
  • Do some research and look up the business’s web reviews, ratings, and client testimonials.
  • Verify the company’s experience and knowledge in the field, as well as how long they have been in the business.
  • Find a company that offers solutions specifically designed to meet your demands and your budget.
  • Inquire about the company’s maintenance services, emergency response time, and customer support.
  • Always get a detailed estimate and contract in writing, and clarify any doubts or questions you may have before signing.
  • Trust your gut and choose a company you feel comfortable working with.

Wrap Up

Whether you are a homeowner or a professional community member, think about how to safeguard your property from the erratic forces of nature. Reach out to adept lightning protection companies today and take the first step towards safety!

South West lighting protection is dedicated to providing expert solutions for safeguarding your property against lightning strikes. Our experienced team follows industry regulations and delivers customized services to suit your requirements and budget. Through reliable maintenance and emergency response services, you can rest easy knowing your property is always protected.