A quick view for lightning protection standards: a deep dive into NFC 17-102/2011

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There are several lightning protection standards that are widely used around the world. These standards provide guidelines and recommendations for the design and installation of lightning protection systems, with the goal of ensuring the safety and effectiveness of these systems in protecting against lightning strikes.

Some examples of lightning protection standards that are commonly used around the world include:

 

  • International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard 62305: This is a widely-used international standard that provides guidelines for the protection of structures and life against lightning. It covers the design, installation, and maintenance of lightning protection systems, as well as the testing and certification of these systems.
  • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 780: This is a standard developed by the National Fire Protection Association in the United States, which provides guidelines for the installation, maintenance, and inspection of lightning protection systems.
  • British Standard BS EN 62305: This is a standard developed by the British Standards Institute, which provides guidelines for the protection of structures and life against lightning. It is based on the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standard 62305, but with additional requirements specific to the UK.
  • NFC 17-102 ESE (Early Streamer Emission) Lightning Protection Standard: This is a standard developed by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), which provides guidelines for the design and installation of lightning protection systems using Early Streamer Emission (ESE) technology.

 

Let's look with a deeper perspective into NFC 17-102/2011 Standard:

The NFC 17-102 ESE (Early Streamer Emission) Lightning Protection Standard is a set of guidelines and recommendations for the design and installation of lightning protection systems using Early Streamer Emission (ESE) technology. ESE technology is a type of lightning protection system that is designed to provide a safer and more effective method of protection against lightning strikes.

The NFC 17-102 ESE Standard was developed by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), an independent, scientific organization that aims to provide guidance on the potential health effects of non-ionizing radiation. The standard is based on the latest scientific research and findings on the effectiveness and safety of ESE technology in lightning protection.

The NFC 17-102 ESE Standard applies to the design, installation, and maintenance of ESE lightning protection systems for a wide range of structures and facilities, including buildings, bridges, towers, and other structures. It provides guidelines on the selection and placement of ESE air terminals, as well as the design and installation of downconductors and grounding systems.

One example of a structure that has successfully implemented an ESE lightning protection system is the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada. The CN Tower, which is one of the tallest free-standing structures in the world, was fitted with an ESE lightning protection system in 1995. Since then, the system has successfully protected the tower from lightning strikes, ensuring the safety of the thousands of visitors and employees who visit the tower each year.

To ensure compliance with the NFC 17-102 ESE Standard, manufacturers of ESE lightning protection systems must perform testing and provide documentation demonstrating that their products meet the prescribed performance and safety requirements. Additionally, professionals who design and install ESE lightning protection systems must be trained and certified in accordance with the standard.

Overall, the NFC 17-102 ESE Lightning Protection Standard plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of ESE technology in protecting against lightning strikes. By providing guidelines and recommendations for the design and installation of ESE systems, it helps to minimize the risk of damage and injury caused by lightning and ensure the safety of individuals and structures.