Replacement of Radioactive Lightning Rods

One of the most important components for protection against lightning and overvoltage is external lightning protection systems. With today’s technology, modern, environmentally friendly external lightning protection systems are now produced, tested, and certified according to international standards. In the past, radioactive lightning rods were actively used. These lightning rods attract lightning by emitting ions. To increase their efficiency, radium was used. This element increased ionization. However, these lightning rods are radioactive and harmful to both the environment and human health.

In our country, it has been announced by the Turkish Atomic Energy Authority (TAEK) through the circular numbered 10700-0005 dated 04.01.2000 that the import of radioactive sources (Am-241, Ra-226 etc.) used in the production of lightning rods will not be allowed from 31.03.2000 onwards, and the ban will continue indefinitely.

Considering alternative external lightning protection systems, radioactive lightning rods do not provide significant benefits. Due to the widespread use of radioactive sources in these rods, preventing unnecessary radioactive accumulation, the potential damage from earthquakes, strong winds, rains, and fires, and the fact that users may change over the years and inexperienced people may handle them, their use has been prohibited for environmental and human safety reasons.

Considering that the last radioactive lightning rod installation in our country was likely done in 2000, all existing radioactive lightning rods must be replaced from 2010 onwards. If your lightning rod system was installed before 2000, it is most likely radioactive.

Overvoltage and lightning protection systems must comply with IEC 62305 standards.

Passive External Lightning Protection Systems

According to IEC 62305 standards, passive systems should be used in external lightning protection. Systems that do not attract lightning but only activate when lightning strikes should be preferred. Passive air terminals are anti-corrosive and the correct system design should be created based on lightning risk analysis. Insulated conductors should also be preferred for down conductors.

Protecting a PV system with passive air terminals

Replacement of Radioactive Lightning Rods

Facilities with radioactive lightning rods should remove them and use passive air terminal systems after conducting a risk analysis according to IEC standards. We recommend using products compliant with IEC 62305 standards instead of unregulated lightning systems produced in small workshops. You can request replacement immediately by filling out the form below.