A lightning rod is an interception system that has the aim of intercepting atmospheric electric discharges and conducting them safely to earth. It is installed on any building or structure to prevent lightning from causing harm to people.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a technology that allows objects to connect to the internet and communicate with each other. IoT has enabled the development of new applications and services, such as home and factory automation, vehicle tracking and real-time patient monitoring. Its application in earthing and lightning protection systems has led to increased efficiency by providing real-time and remote information on the status of connected assets.
Aplicaciones Tecnológicas SA and the private accredited professional training entity ISQ Academy have signed a protocol for training and certification in Lightning Protection Systems, mandatory since 2022. In this way, the qualification of Portuguese professionals is adapted to new legal requirements in the Fire Safety in Buildings (FSB) field. The first edition will start on 9 November 2022.
The correlation between anthropogenic aerosol pollution and lightning activity has been known for some time, although the mechanism connecting the two has not been identified yet. The lockdowns enacted to contain the COVID-19 pandemic were an unprecedented opportunity to further explore this relationship.
