LIGHTNING & SURGE PROTECTION
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Lightning Threat - mystery and clarity M isunderstandings, misconceptions, misinformation, ignorance, and arrogance still hinder sound currently at Edition 3.3 (2018). It serves a supplementary role, focusing on additional methods for protection against direct lightning strikes.
decision-making in the lightning protection industry, impacting property owners and asset risk managers across South Africa. Misunderstanding 1: SANS 10313 versus SANS 62305 In 2026, SANS 62305 (“Protection against lightning”) is the primary standard for mitigating lightning-related damage and injury in South Africa. Since its 2007 adoption, it has evolved through several editions; the current 2025 Edition 3 introduces critical data on ground strike-point density and clarifies • What isolated lightning protection systems are, • The role of lightning surge protection measures, and • The relevance of thunderstorm warning systems in any mitigation solution. Every property owner in South Africa has the right to know if they are at risk from lightning. SANS 62305 offers a way to measure that risk across four sections covering: • The intelligent context of lightning threat • Quantifying lightning risk, • Mitigation methods to protect against direct lightning strikes, and • Mitigation measures to protect against lightning surges from indirect lightning strikes. SANS 10313, derived from SABS 03 (1952), has been aligned with SANS 62305 and is
Misunderstanding 2: LPS versus LSPM A clear distinction must be made between: • Lightning Protection Systems (LPS): Systems designed to safely intercept and conduct lightning to ground. • Lightning Surge Protection Measures (LSPM): Measures that limit transient overvoltages caused by lightning. Lightning presents both • A primary threat - direct strike energy capable of destruction and fatality, and • A secondary threat - widespread surge effects causing damage beyond the strike point. The secondary threat accounts for substantial annual insurance losses due to inadequate or incorrect surge protection. A common misconception is that an LPS addresses all lightning risks. In reality, an LPS protects against direct strikes at specific structures, while LSPM provides broader protection against surges from nearby lightning activity. This confusion is compounded by the concept of “internal” and “external” LPS: • The external LPS intercepts and safely dissipates the lightning discharge. • The internal LPS mitigates transient overvoltages resulting from that discharge. Understanding power surges A power surge happens when the voltage in an electrical circuit exceeds the normal level, usually 220-230 volts in South Africa. Surges can be caused by several factors. • Lightning strikes: South Africa experiences some of the world’s highest lightning strike rates, especially in the Highveld region. • Load shedding and power restoration:
Where procedural measures alone are insufficient, engineered solutions are required: • LSPM to reduce surge-related risks, and • LPS to mitigate direct strike hazards. Get informed The SAIEE Lightning Chapter will host a webinar on this subject on 27 May 2026. For inquiries, email lightningchapter@saiee.org.za For more information about lightning protection in South Africa, contact the Earthing and Lightning Protection Association (ELPA) - info@elpasa.org.za • Secondary/point-of-use protection: These plug-in devices safeguard individual appliances or electronics, such as computers or TVs. • Specialised protection: Some sensitive equipment, such as medical devices or industrial controls, may require tailored surge protection solutions. Best practices for surge protection Layered approach: Combining whole-house and point-of-use surge protectors offers the best defence, as not all surges are stopped at the main board. Regularly test and replace surge protectors, as repeated surges wear them out. Always follow manufacturer recommendations. Ensure you choose certified SPDs that meet recognised standards (such as SANS or IEC) to guarantee reliability and effectiveness. Ensure proper grounding, as surge protection only works with adequate earthing. Ask a qualified electrician to inspect your property’s grounding system. Frequent lightning, unstable power, and load shedding make surge protection vital for South Africans. By understanding the risks and taking steps to mitigate them, you can protect your equipment and prevent costly damage.
Misunderstanding 3: preparation for lightning protection Effective lightning protection begins with human behaviour and preparedness, not as an afterthought. A critical first step is determining whether sufficient warning exists before a storm to take protective action. Examples include: • moving people from exposed areas such as golf courses or sports fields, and • unplugging sensitive electrical equipment. Such actions should be incorporated into formal standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure timely execution. The sudden return of power after load shedding often causes voltage spikes. • Faulty wiring or equipment: Malfunctions or short circuits can trigger surges within a building. Even small, repeated surges gradually weaken electronic components, while large surges cause immediate, catastrophic damage. Surge protection is vital. Given the risks, one must see surge protection as essential rather than optional for South African homes and businesses. Replacing appliances, computers, or sensitive manufacturing equipment can be costly and result in data loss or reduced productivity. Insurance companies may exclude coverage for surge damage, especially if you fail to install surge protection. How surge protection works Surge protection devices (SPDs) are built to detect excess voltage and safely redirect surges to earth, preventing them from reaching and damaging connected equipment. There are three main types of surge protection: • Primary/whole-house protection: Installed at the main distribution board, these devices protect the entire property from external surges, such as those caused by lightning or grid switching.
Surge Protection in South Africa: safeguarding your electrical systems By Minx Avrabos S outh Africa’s frequent thunderstorms,
ageing power infrastructure, and regular load shedding make surge protection crucial. Power surges can damage or destroy appliances and electronics. This article explains why surge protection matters, how it works, and the best practices for implementing it.
A power surge happens when the voltage in an electrical circuit exceeds the normal level, usually 220-230 volts in South Africa. Surges can be caused by several factors.
SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS
MAY 2026
MAY 2026
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