A properly designed lightning protection system (LPS) is one of the most critical safety investments a facility owner can make. This technical brief from E&S Grounding Solutions identifies and explains the three major components of a code-compliant LPS as defined by NFPA 780, UL 96A, and IEC 62305: the air termination network, the down conductor system, and the grounding/earthing system.

The air termination network — comprising air terminals (lightning rods), catenary wires, or early streamer emission devices — intercepts the lightning stroke before it can strike unprotected structures. The down conductor system provides a low-impedance path for the lightning current to travel from the air termination to the earth. The grounding system then safely dissipates that energy into the soil, preventing dangerous step-and-touch voltages and equipment damage.

This document is essential reading for facility engineers, project managers, and procurement professionals responsible for specifying or evaluating lightning protection systems for substations, industrial plants, data centers, cell towers, and commercial buildings. It includes guidance on common design errors, inspection requirements, and the importance of integrating the LPS with the facility's overall grounding and bonding system.