Posted By Gordon Thelwell Interesting stuff Eric. Question: Is it true that lightning does actually strike twice and therefore if a building has been struck before, the likelihood of it being struck again is higher than normal? Regards, Gordon.

Posted By John Donaldson Perhaps I am unlucky but our buildings, which do have lightning protection, have been struck a number of times. Although we do have surge protection built in we have on occasions lost some equipment. So back up essential data. I might add we are at one of the higher points in Essex (its not all flat), 90 feet above sea level and have some residential towers. Perhaps a timely reminder that many years ago radioactive sealed sources formed part of lightning protection systems due to the belief that they enhanced the system. That use is no longer permitted but there is always the chance that on very old systems and buildings a radioactive source may still be present. Which will have to be disposed of using a disposal route approved by the Environment Agency.

Posted By Eric Burt Geoff There are 4 types of ground to cloud lightning apparently, positive to ground, negative to ground, positive to cloud and negative to cloud. Positive to ground is the most common. We had a presentation from a company called Furse who seem to be experts in this area. It was very interesting. Chester is a beautiful Roman-walled city which boasts an abundance of architecture and history. It is easily accessed by road (at the end of the M53 just off the M56) or rail. The city has a wealth of shops and restaurants to cater for every taste, and visitors should ensure that they stock up on a good supply of camera film to capture the ambience. Accommodation is readily available, ranging from the more celubrious 5 star hotels boasting international standard golf courses, to the cosy bed and breakfast establishments which are situated within walking distance of the city centre. Well Geoff - you DID ask!! Regards Eric

Posted By Ken Taylor Perhaps this subject should be added to NEBOSH training! It seems to be quite a complicated area in which to assess but we do have reference to whether lightening protection is present within our fire risk assessments. Upon once recommending the installation of lightning protection to a building, I was informed that the adjacent local church provided a 'cone of protection' making this unnecessary. It wasn't until lightening actually struck (avoiding the church) that this view was found to be inaccurate! Is there any simple guidance on this for H&S practitioners or is this another job for expensive consultants?