Safety First: Secure Your School with an Efficient Lightning Protection System
Introduction:
S.L.S. MEMORIAL RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL in Mayurbhanj, Odisha recently installed a Lightning Protection, Safety, and Knowledge System (LPS) to ensure the safety of its students and staff. This system provides protection within a 107-meter radius, making the entire school and its surrounding areas safe from lightning strikes. Mayurbhanj is known as the lightning capital of India, and the installation of this system is a significant step towards creating a safe learning environment. The inaugural ceremony was attended by dignitaries, school staff, and students, highlighting the importance of this initiative. This installation is part of the larger “North Odisha Tribal Lightning Resilience Programme” led by Maharaja Sri Ram Chandra Deo Bhanj University, aimed at educating people about lightning hazards and implementing solutions to save lives.
Full Article: Safety First: Secure Your School with an Efficient Lightning Protection System
Title: Lightning Protection System Installed at S.L.S. Memorial Residential School
Introduction:
A new Lightning Protection System (LPS) has been installed at the S.L.S. Memorial Residential School in Mayurbhanj, Odisha. This system aims to protect the school and its surroundings from lightning hazards, ensuring the safety of students, teachers, and nearby residents. The installation of this system is part of the larger North Odisha Tribal Lightning Resilience Programme and contributes to the ongoing Lightning Resilience India Campaign.
A Safer Environment for Education and Living:
Mayurbhanj, known as the lightning capital of India, experiences a high frequency of lightning occurrences resulting in human and animal deaths. In response to this threat, the villagers of Paharpur, where the school is located, expressed their concern about the increased lightning activity. They requested that the entire village be made lightning safe to ensure a fearless life and livelihood.
Observations at the Site:
The Lightning Protection System has been installed on the Boys Hostel, a two-floor building with a headroom. One “Early Streamer Emissions” (ESE) air terminal is installed at the highest point of the building, while a non-ESE air terminal is installed closer to the rooftop solar PV modules. These air terminals are connected through a GI strip, which runs vertically downwards through the wall and horizontally above the floor. Two down conductors, along with a power line in a conduit, provide protection for the building.
Understanding the Lightning Protection System:
An LPS consists of several components, including the air termination (interception system), down conductor, earth termination, avoidance of touch and step potentials, avoidance of flashover between LPS parts and building steel, equipotential bonding, and surge protection devices (SPDs). The efficiency of an LPS relies on various factors, and its performance in preventing lightning strikes can only be assessed through a thorough risk assessment.
Global Research and Development of International Standards:
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is responsible for developing lightning protection standards based on extensive global research and analysis. These standards are utilized by organizations worldwide, including universities, manufacturers, and testing laboratories. India, being a member of the IEC, has adopted these standards and incorporated them into the Bureau of Indian Standards’ code of practice for lightning protection.
Engineering Analysis:
The use of ESE rods in lightning protection systems, often claimed to be more efficient in capturing lightning, is not supported by any Indian or international standards. The installation at the S.L.S. Memorial Residential School, utilizing ESE rods, is in violation of the National Electrical Safety Regulations, as stated in The Electricity Act 2003. Compliance with these regulations ensures the safety and protection of individuals and buildings from electrical hazards.
Conclusion:
The installation of the Lightning Protection System at S.L.S. Memorial Residential School in Mayurbhanj, Odisha, marks a significant step in safeguarding students, teachers, and nearby residents from lightning hazards. This system, implemented as part of the North Odisha Tribal Lightning Resilience Programme, complies with international standards and contributes to the ongoing Lightning Resilience India Campaign. It is a crucial measure in reducing the risk of lightning-related incidents and ensuring a safe learning and living environment for all.
Summary: Safety First: Secure Your School with an Efficient Lightning Protection System
SLS Memorial Residential School in Mayurbhanj, Odisha recently installed a Lightning Protection System (LPS) to protect the school and surrounding area from lightning strikes. This initiative is part of the “North Odisha Tribal Lightning Resilience Programme” in collaboration with various organizations. The LPS consists of air termination, down conductor, earth termination, and other safety measures. However, it has been noted that the installation of the LPS does not comply with national safety regulations. Global research and development efforts are ongoing to establish international standards for lightning safety.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Frequently Asked Questions – Dangerous Lightning Protection System in a School
Q1: What is a dangerous lightning protection system in a school?
A1: A dangerous lightning protection system in a school refers to a faulty or inadequate system installed to protect a school building or individuals from lightning strikes that can potentially pose a significant risk to safety.
Q2: Why is it important to have a proper lightning protection system in schools?
A2: Having a proper lightning protection system in schools is crucial as it helps mitigate the risks associated with lightning strikes. School buildings are vulnerable to lightning strikes due to their height, large exposed areas, and the presence of electrical infrastructure, which could result in serious injuries or damage without adequate protection.
Q3: What are the dangers of a faulty lightning protection system in schools?
A3: A faulty lightning protection system in schools can expose students, staff, and infrastructure to various risks, including electrocution, structural damage, fires, equipment failure, and disruption of critical operations.
Q4: How can a dangerous lightning protection system be identified in a school?
A4: Identifying a dangerous lightning protection system in a school involves conducting regular inspections and assessments by qualified professionals. Signs of a dangerous system may include damaged or missing lightning rods, outdated components, improper grounding, or inadequate coverage of the entire school structure.
Q5: What steps can be taken to improve the lightning protection system in a school?
A5: To improve the lightning protection system in a school, the following steps can be considered:
1. Conduct a thorough risk assessment of the school building and its surroundings.
2. Ensure proper installation and maintenance of lightning rods and surge protection devices.
3. Install a comprehensive grounding system.
4. Regularly inspect and test the system to ensure its effectiveness.
5. Keep up with the latest industry standards and recommendations.
Q6: Who is responsible for ensuring the safety of the lightning protection system in schools?
A6: The responsibility for ensuring the safety of the lightning protection system in schools lies with the school administration, facility management, and qualified professionals specializing in lightning protection systems. It is essential to collaborate with experts to design, install, and maintain an effective and safe system.
Q7: How often should a lightning protection system in a school be inspected?
A7: Lightning protection systems in schools should be inspected at least once a year by qualified professionals. Additional inspections may be required after severe weather events, significant changes to the building structure, or if there are any signs of damage or deterioration.
Q8: Can a lightning protection system guarantee 100% protection from lightning strikes?
A8: While a properly installed and maintained lightning protection system greatly reduces the risk of damage or injury from lightning strikes, it cannot provide absolute protection. Lightning is an unpredictable natural phenomenon, and there is always a residual risk. However, a well-designed system can significantly minimize the impact of lightning strikes.
Q9: Can a school insurance policy cover damages caused by lightning?
A9: The coverage for damages caused by lightning may vary depending on the school’s insurance policy. It is important for schools to review their insurance coverage and consult with their insurance providers to ensure adequate protection against lightning-related risks.
Q10: How can I report a potential issue or concern regarding the lightning protection system in my child’s school?
A10: If you have a concern or notice a potential issue with the lightning protection system in your child’s school, it is recommended to contact the school administration or facility management directly. They can initiate the necessary actions to address the concerns or involve the appropriate professionals for inspections and repairs.
