Where a lightning protection risk assessment shows that a lightning protection system is required to protect a structure from direct lightning strikes, a series of design possibilities will be created using an appropriate method in accordance with BS EN 62305. This could include a basic mesh layout, protection using air termination masts and the protection angle method or full rolling-sphere analysis using our design software. Often several design proposals may be made, including different combinations and heights of air termination mast (building-mounted and ground-mounted), roof-mounted mesh conductors and use of the building's natural lightning protection structures. The Client is then free to select the most cost-effective or practical design to install before the design report and drawings are provided.

Use of a structure’s natural lightning protection capabilities is an important consideration, subject to the owner’s understanding of its limitations, and can often reduce the cost of any necessary lightning protection measures and ongoing maintenance costs.