Table of Contents
Abstract
Sets out guidelines for the protection of persons and property from the hazards of lightning. Applies to conventional lightning protection systems consisting of air terminations, down conductors, earthing systems and surge protect devices. Provides a comprehensive risk assessment process for the determination of risk due to lightning for a range of structures.
Scope
This Standard sets out guidelines for the protection of persons and property from hazards arising from exposure to lightning. The recommendations specifically cover the following applications:
(a) The protection of persons, both outdoors, where they may be at risk from the direct effects of a lightning strike, and indoors, where they may be at risk indirectly as a consequence of lightning currents being conducted into the building.
(b) The protection of a variety of buildings or structures, including those with explosive or highly-flammable contents, and mines.
(c) The protection of sensitive electronic equipment (e.g. facsimile machines, modems, computers) from overvoltages resulting from a lightning strike to the building or its associated services.
The nature of lightning and the principles of lightning protection are discussed and guidance is given to assist in a determination of whether protective measures should be taken.
This Standard is applicable to conventional lightning protection systems (LPSs) that comprise air terminals, downconductors, earth termination networks and surge protective devices (SPDs). Nothing contained within this Standard neither endorses nor implies the endorsement of non-conventional LPSs that comprise special air terminals or special downconductors that claim enhanced performance or enhanced screening over conventional systems.
The performance of such systems is outside the scope of this Standard. Irrespective of claimed performance, air terminals shall be placed in accordance with Section 4 to comply with this Standard.
Application
This Standard does not override any statutory requirements but may be used in conjunction with such requirements.
Compliance with the recommendations of this Standard will not necessarily prevent damage or personal injury due to lightning but will reduce the probability of such damage or injury occurring.
History
First published as AS MC1-1969.
Revised and redesignated AS 1768-1975.
Second edition 1983.
Third edition 1991.
Jointly revised and designated as AS/NZS 1768(Int):2003.