Comparison of the lightning risk profile of different types of structures with incoming power services

A risk assessment calculator was developed based on the IEC 62305-2 Risk management document. Risk analyses were performed on two different structures types found in South Africa. A suburban structure which is similar in nature to many urban structures found around the world. The second structure is an informal structure which could almost be classified as unique to South Africa. By providing power services to such a structure the risk profile dramatically changes. The total risk for the risk of loss of life (R₁) was assessed for each structure type, and the risk for the informal structure was dramatically greater then that of the suburban structure. Influences that have an effect on the informal structures risk of loss of life is the risk of fire (r_f), the length of the service (l_c) and the topography of the structure. The risk of economic loss is touched upon and though it is usually considered more for affluent household, there can be significant consequential losses associated with economic loss in the case of informal structures.