4.4 Lightning equipotential bonding

Lightning equipotential bonding is an integral part of the external and internal lightning protection system (LPS) and serves to minimise potential differences between conductive parts of a structure during a lightning event. This is achieved by connecting the LPS to:

• Metal installations (e. g. pipelines, cable routes).
• Internal systems (electrical and IT systems).
• External conductive parts and connected conductors.

The connection can be made directly or indirectly. It should be noted that, in the case of direct coupling with internal systems, part of the lightning current may penetrate these systems. This effect must be taken into account during planning and execution.
The systems are connected by means of: