Control measure
Safe system of work: Lightning
Control measure knowledge
Weather warnings for lightning may provide fire and rescue services with advance information about when lightning may occur.
If lightning is a hazard the safety of personnel should be based on an incident ground risk assessment. Working where lightning strike is a risk should be avoided if possible, and the following activities may need to be restricted or stopped:
- Working at height
- Working on, in or near water
- Working in the open
- Working near or on tall structures
- Carrying or pitching ladders
Even when undertaking lifesaving activities, a cordon of 10m around tall structures, such as transmission towers, is recommended.
Strategic actions
Fire and rescue services should:
Provide personnel with access to weather warnings for lightning
Tactical actions
Incident commanders should:
Consider stopping activities where there is a risk of lightning strike
Consider seeking appropriate shelter where there is a risk of lightning strike
Avoid working in open areas, at height, near tall structures or on, in or near water where there is a risk of lightning strike
Control and restrict the use of conductive equipment such as ladders
TRAINING SPECIFICATION
Knowledge and understanding
| Control measure element | Learning outcome |
|---|---|
Weather warnings |
Understand:
|
Impact on operational activities |
Understand:
|
Practical application
| Control measure element | Learning outcome |
|---|---|
Consider stopping activities where there is a risk of lightning strike |
Demonstrate the ability to:
|
Consider seeking appropriate shelter where there is a risk of lightning strike |
Demonstrate the ability to:
|
Avoid working in open areas, at height, near tall structures or on, in or near water where there is a risk of lightning strike |
Demonstrate the ability to:
|
Control and restrict the use of conductive equipment such as ladders |
Demonstrate the ability to:
|