When is lightning protection testing and inspection performed on commercial buildings?

Lightning protection is a system designed to protect buildings from direct lightning strikes and their consequences. It must always be in good working order, as the safety of people and property depends on it. Let's look at when lightning protection inspections and inspections of commercial buildings are performed. This should only be entrusted to professionals, such as our company, FSR, which has over 20 years of experience in servicing these types of properties.

Why is lightning protection inspection performed?

Lightning protection systems, if not properly maintained, can become ineffective. Lightning damage can have serious consequences, including:

• fires;
• damage to electrical equipment;
• failure to meet safety standards.

Failure to timely inspect lightning protection devices can result in penalties and other liability for commercial property owners and managers due to failure to ensure adequate safety.

When is lightning protection inspection and testing performed according to regulations?

According to approved standards and established regulations, when lightning protection inspections for buildings are performed depends on the type of inspection:

• initial – immediately after installation to confirm proper operation and functionality;
• regular – annually for facilities with a high risk of lightning strikes and after adverse weather events, including hurricane-force winds and severe thunderstorms, that could damage the lightning protection system;
• after repair work that also poses a risk of damage.

We've covered when an inspection is performed, now let's look at its main stages. First, a visual inspection of all components—lightning rods, paths, grounding elements, and connections—is conducted. Next, damage is detected, resistance testing, and grounding testing are performed. Each inspection is documented, indicating the date, test results, and recommendations for maintenance. We recommend approving a schedule and contacting FSR specialists, who not only have the practical skills, knowledge, and experience, but also all the necessary permits for inspecting and inspecting lightning protection systems for commercial buildings.