Location factor and its impact on antennae safety with reference to direct lightning strikes

The incidence of direct lightning strikes to TV and communication antennae have increased due to their indiscriminate installation on residential and commercial buildings. Studies have shown that the lightning discharge has preferred strike points (PSP) on buildings and structures by their unique geometry. This allows for a safer location for installing the antennae to avoid from being struck directly by lightning. The application of proprietary lightning air terminals do not provide any advantage since these devices have been declared as unscientific and unproven and their application is contrary to the provisions of international and national lightning protection standards. A brief comparison is also made with antennae protection techniques practiced in Japan