DEHN addresses lightning safety risks in sports facility infrastructure
Increasing frequency of thunderstorms has heightened the risk of electrical hazards for athletes and spectators at outdoor sports venues, prompting new technical guidance.
DEHN has released technical guidelines aimed at mitigating lightning-related risks at sports facilities. The company notes that rising storm frequency poses a threat to athletes and spectators, as lightning strikes to floodlight masts, fencing, and grandstands can lead to dangerous touch and step voltages. These electrical surges, if not properly directed, can cause severe physical harm, including cardiac arrest.
Regulatory frameworks, such as those found in German building codes, increasingly mandate the installation of effective lightning protection systems in areas where public safety is at risk. DEHN advises that a robust system must include comprehensive lightning equipotential bonding to prevent uncontrolled arcing and fire hazards. The company emphasizes that all incoming energy and communication lines must be integrated into this bonding system to ensure overall facility integrity.
To further reduce hazards, the use of high-voltage-resistant (HVI) conductors is recommended for metal structures like lighting masts. By isolating these components, the lightning current is diverted safely, ensuring the metal structures remain surge-free. Industry standards, specifically DIN EN 62305-3, provide the necessary framework for designing these systems to protect large-scale spectator areas and critical infrastructure.