FAQ: Lightning Protection Inspections

February 26, 2024

About Lightning Protection Inspections

Lightning protection systems are designed to safeguard buildings and structures from the impact of lightning strikes. These systems provide a direct path for lightning to strike and follow from the top, safely conducting the electrical charge to the ground, down the side of a building and away from the structure. This not only prevents physical damage to the building's exterior and critical infrastructure but also reduces the risk of fire, electrical surges, and other hazards that can arise from a lightning strike. Ensuring your property is equipped with an effective lightning protection system is crucial for safety and compliance, especially in areas prone to thunderstorms.

What is Lightning Protection Inspection?

Lightning protection inspection involves examining the components and system integrity of a building's lightning protection setup. This ensures the system is capable of safely conducting lightning strikes away from the structure, minimizing the risk of damage or injury.

The Law, Regulations & Standards

In the UK, the requirement for lightning protection and its inspection is guided by several regulations and standards, rather than a single legislation.

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 necessitate maintaining electrical systems, including lightning protections, to prevent danger.

The British Standards (BS EN 62305) detail the requirements for lightning protection system design, installation, and annual inspections.

The Building Regulations and Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance do not explicitly mandate lightning protection, they imply its necessity for safety in specific buildings and industries.

Compliance and the need for lightning protection are often determined based on risk assessments, considering factors like building location and type.

Why is Lightning Protection Inspection Important?

Inspection is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of lightning protection systems, ensuring they operate correctly when needed. It helps identify wear and tear, corrosion, or any damage that might compromise the system's functionality, keeping your property and its occupants safe.

How Often Should Lightning Protection Systems Be Inspected?

UK standards recommend that lightning protection systems be inspected annually. However, the frequency can vary based on the system's age, exposure to corrosive environments, and any modifications to the building structure.

What Does a Lightning Protection Inspection Include?

A comprehensive inspection covers:

Visual assessment of all accessible parts of the system.
Checking for physical damage, corrosion, and secure connections.
Testing the system's electrical continuity to ensure a clear path to ground.
Verifying compliance with current standards and regulations.

Do All Buildings Require Lightning Protection?

Not all buildings require lightning protection. The need depends on the structure's location, height, construction materials, and use. Buildings at higher risk, such as tall structures, those in lightning-prone areas, or housing sensitive equipment, should have a lightning protection system in place.

Is Lightning Protection Inspection a Legal Requirement?

While not explicitly mandated by law for all buildings, specific industries and structures are required to have lightning protection systems inspected regularly to comply with health and safety regulations and insurance requirements.

What Happens If My Building Fails the Inspection?

If issues are found during the inspection, you'll receive a detailed report outlining the deficiencies and recommended actions. Repairs or upgrades should be carried out promptly to ensure the system's effectiveness and compliance.

Can I Inspect My Own Lightning Protection System?

Due to the complex and technical nature of these systems, inspections should be conducted by qualified professionals with the knowledge and equipment to perform thorough evaluations and testing.

How Can I Prepare for a Lightning Protection Inspection?

Ensure clear access to all parts of the lightning protection system, including roof areas and down conductors. It’s also helpful to provide any documentation or records of previous inspections.

Visit our Lightning Protection Inspection page to find out more about lightning protection services.

Lightning Protection Inspection Services

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Do New Electrical Appliances Really Need PAT Testing?

September 9, 2025

Introduction We’ve been hearing this question more and more from customers lately: “Do brand-new appliances still need PAT testing?” It’s a fair question. After all, new equipment usually arrives sealed, with manufacturer labels and testing certificates. But when it comes to safety, compliance, and peace of mind, the answer is a little more nuanced. What the Law Actually Says There is no strict legal requirement that says every appliance must be PAT tested. The law simply requires that employers and duty holders keep electrical equipment safe and properly maintained. That means the responsibility is on you to ensure equipment is safe to use, whether it’s new or not. The law doesn’t prescribe how you do it, but PAT testing is one of the most reliable methods. New Equipment: What Best Practice Looks Like Industry guidance generally states that brand-new equipment does not usually need a full PAT test . A thorough visual inspection is often enough. Why? Because new appliances are supplied as safe. But… there are a few important caveats. Why Some Organisations Still Choose to PAT Test New Appliances Even new items can develop issues before they reach you: Transit damage : knocks, drops, or rough handling. Storage conditions : damp, dust, or stacking problems. Manufacturing faults : rare, but possible. For most offices or low-risk workplaces, a visual check may be sufficient. But in higher-risk environments, like healthcare, construction, or manufacturing, many duty holders choose to test new equipment anyway. It’s about risk, peace of mind, and protecting people. A Risk-Based Approach That Works Low-risk settings (offices, shops, classrooms): Carry out a visual inspection, log the equipment, and move it into service. High-risk or critical settings (workshops, hospitals, factories): Consider a full PAT test even for new appliances, to establish a safe baseline and prevent costly downtime or accidents. Documentation and Competence Matter Whether you perform a visual inspection or a full PAT test, keep a record. This creates a clear audit trail and shows that you’ve taken reasonable steps to ensure safety. It’s also important that the person carrying out the inspection or test is competent, trained, knowledgeable, and confident in spotting issues. Conclusion: What’s the Smartest Strategy? In most cases, new appliances don’t require PAT testing, just a solid visual check as part of your risk management process. But remember: if the equipment is critical, the environment is high-risk, or there’s any sign of damage, a PAT test is a small investment in safety and peace of mind.