Lightning Safety
The Problem
Lightning is one of nature’s most dangerous forces, and workers outdoors or using electrical equipment are at significant risk. Every year, lightning strikes result in serious injuries and fatalities—many of which are preventable. Today, we’ll focus on understanding lightning safety risks and outline the procedures needed to protect ourselves during electrical storms.
Identify the Hazards
- Direct Lightning Strikes: Risk of strike increases in open or elevated areas.
- Ground Currents: Lightning striking the ground can travel through soil, affecting anyone nearby.
- Side Flash: Lightning may jump from a tall object to a nearby person or piece of equipment.
- Step Potential: Voltage differences in the ground surface may result in electricity passing through the body.
- Energised Equipment: Contact with equipment affected by lightning can lead to electric shock or burns.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
1. Monitoring Weather Conditions
- Weather Tracking: Use mobile apps, MetService, or on-site weather alerts to stay updated.
- Lightning Detection: Use systems that can track lightning strikes and predict storm movement. Take action when lightning is within 10 km of the site.
2. Safe Distances
- 30/30 Rule:
- If thunder is heard within 30 seconds of seeing lightning, stop work and seek shelter.
- Wait 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before resuming.
- If thunder is heard within 30 seconds of seeing lightning, stop work and seek shelter.
- Distance Awareness: Keep at least 50 metres from tall objects. Avoid wide-open or elevated areas.
3. Shelter Requirements
- Safe Shelter:
- Enclosed buildings with plumbing and wiring.
- Metal-roofed vehicles with windows closed.
- Enclosed buildings with plumbing and wiring.
- Unsafe Areas:
- Avoid sheds, open-sided shelters, trees, scaffolds, and aluminium towers.
- Avoid sheds, open-sided shelters, trees, scaffolds, and aluminium towers.
4. Equipment Shutdown
- Electrical Equipment:
- Power down and unplug where safe to do so.
- Use surge protectors for key equipment.
- Power down and unplug where safe to do so.
- Heavy Machinery:
- Shut down and park clear of tall structures.
- Exit safely and follow proper lockout procedures.
- Shut down and park clear of tall structures.
5. Communication and Emergency Protocols
- Alert Systems:
- Establish a site chain of command for storm alerts.
- Use radios, texts, or alarms to notify the team.
- Establish a site chain of command for storm alerts.
- Emergency Plans:
- Designate safe shelters and evacuation assembly points.
- Conduct regular safety drills.
- Designate safe shelters and evacuation assembly points.
6. Restarting Work
- All Clear Protocol:
- Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming.
- Inspect all gear for damage before powering back on.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A team on a rural site ignored storm warnings and continued work on scaffolding. Lightning struck a nearby pole, and ground current injured two workers. Had they followed the 30/30 rule and taken shelter, the injuries could have been avoided.
Employee Responsibilities
- Monitor weather conditions.
- Follow shelter and shutdown procedures.
- Report any damage or unsafe conditions immediately.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide weather alert tools and shelter options.
- Train workers on lightning procedures and evacuation.
- Ensure storm-related risks are included in health and safety planning.
Discussion & Questions
- “Has anyone experienced a close call with lightning on a job site?”
- “Do you think our current lightning safety procedures could be improved?”
- “What changes would help make sure everyone reacts quickly during a storm?”
Encourage the team to share insights or concerns.
Commitment/Action Plan
From today, we commit to: Following the 30/30 rule. Taking shelter during storms. Inspecting all equipment before use after a storm. No task is worth risking your life in a lightning storm.
Wrap-Up
Lightning safety comes down to preparation and awareness. By understanding the risks, following site protocols, and acting quickly, we can stay safe during storms. Thank you for your attention and commitment to protecting yourself and your crew.
Standards Overview
Under WorkSafe New Zealand guidelines:
- Employers must ensure weather risks are considered in health and safety plans.
- Emergency plans must include procedures for electrical storms.
- Electrical safety procedures should be reviewed during high-risk periods such as thunderstorm season.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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