Lightning Protection Installer - Third Party Certification Requirements

[msimms]

I'm currently on a project that requires LPS installers have a background with at least 2 years of LPS installation work, as well as a third party ceritification. I understand that LPS installations are somewhat specialized so out of curiosity, I started researching whether this requirement existed in code or if it was owner requested. I couldn't locate a specific requirement, however NFPA 780 does have an Annex A Explanatory Material section (with a preface that "Annex A is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document
but is included for informational purposes only"), and per A.1.5.2 states "Installation of a lightning protection system requires special skills; if the system is not installed correctly, it could be counterproductive. Certification for fitness could include re-view of installation experience and credentials."

The design of the LPS was performed by a certified AE company, but not by what you would consider a LPS Designer that could certify it to NFPA 780. That portion is being left in the hands of another party, but was designed per NFPA 780 and with a proper level of design review and analysis.

With all that being said, my question to anyone is whether they are aware of any strict requirements, or if it is more or less owner/AHJ driven?

Sorry for the long-winded background. Thanks.

 

[steve66]

It's typically owner/AHJ driven.

I don't know of any codes that require a LPS, and if one is installed, there generally isn't any code requirement for it to be certified.

However, I think its typical for an engineer or owner to ask for certification so they have some confidence in the system.

And it's usually the installed system that is certified, not the installer/contractor or designer. Either UL or NFPA has a program where they will send someone to actually inspect the installed system. Of course that costs money.

 

[msimms]

Thanks for the feedback. It essentially confirms what I believed was the case.