The revised Australian lightning protection standard AS1768
This presentation will examine the impact of the newly revised Australian lightning protection standard AS1768. The basis for changes to the risk assessment process with case studies to illustrate how it may be applied to a range of structure types will be presented. New material will be provided regarding surge protection equipment, protection of wind turbines and PV systems, HV power supply systems and mines, and lessons from investigations into real lightning damage incidents will be discussed, including how to improve personal safety.
AS1768 has been revised and updated to reflect the latest approaches to lightning protection and safety internationally. Up to 10 people are killed every year in Australia by lightning and up to 100 people are seriously injured. The case for improving communication regarding personal safety and the application of lightning detection and warning systems will be addressed. Updated approaches for protection to prevent building fires and equipment damage caused by direct strikes or transients in the power supply are discussed.
Relevant to electrical, electronic, risk and safety engineers involved in asset management, design, construction, commissioning, maintenance of assets where equipment operability and staff safety may be adversely impacted by lightning strike, as well as anyone with an interest in lightning safety.
Speakers
Technical Director, Safearth Consulting
With over 25 years specializing in ‘earthing’ Darren has contributed to the modernization of this boutique sector of electrical engineering in Australia and to its ongoing advancement worldwide. Darren has contributed to the industry through the development of specialist hardware and instrumentation for testing; analysis software of earthing systems and power networks; as well as contributing to standards and guidelines for the design and assessment of earthing systems. Darren is a current committee member of AS1768.
Director, BC2
Since 1982 Bill has been closely involved in earthing and lightning protection system design and testing, safety analysis, standards development, R&D, and training. He worked for over 37 years within the power utility Ausgrid, and since 2014 he has operated as an independent specialist engineer consulting to utilities and industry.
