Protection methods

​The standard provides simple geometric forms of design which are comprised of cost, effectiveness and simplicity in design.

The design methods are:  Mesh method , Rolling sphere method  and Protection angle method. The rolling sphere method, mesh method and protection angle method are used to determine the required positioning of the lightning protection air-terminations. While there are limits on the application of the protection angle and mesh methods, generally the standard considers the three methods as equivalent.

The rolling sphere method is recommended as the most universal method, while the mesh method is more suitable for the protection of flat surfaces. The protection angle method can only be used with limited vertical distances. Different design methods can be applied to different regions of a single lightning protection system, provided the zones allowed by each method overlap to protect the entire structure. Any of these methods can be used to determine placement of the air-terminations. Permitted air-terminations are:  Rods (including masts and free-standing masts), meshed conductors (on building surface or elevated), catenary wires and  natural components.

Besides external lightning protection the European norm  EN 62305 prescribes the use of surge protection. The use of modern, sophisticated equipment, consumer electronics and control systems demands a high standard of their electromagnetic compatibility. The installation of surge protections according to effective legal standards will reduce the danger of damage to a minimum.