Overview
IEC 62793:2020 - Thunderstorm warning systems – Protection against lightning specifies the characteristics and performance expectations for thunderstorm warning systems (TWSs) used to implement lightning-hazard preventive measures. The standard covers both single sensors and networks of sensors (for example, lightning location systems, LLS) as components of a TWS. This second edition (2020) is a technical revision of the 2016 edition and removes coverage of portable devices, reorganizes annexes, makes Annex E normative (detector testing), and provides improved guidance on the alarm timeline and the application guide in Annex F.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Detection technologies and properties: Descriptions of detector types (single-sensor techniques and multi-sensor/LLS approaches) and parameters relevant to detection performance.
- Thunderstorm phases and detectable phenomena: Identification of measurable signals (electric field, electromagnetic emissions, etc.) that support alarm decisions.
- Alarm method and timeline: Defined concepts for alarm areas and alarm logic, including Target (TA), Surrounding area (SA), Monitoring area (MA) and Coverage area (CA), plus requirements for alarm triggering and clearing and information delivery.
- Installation and maintenance: Expectations for deployment, siting and upkeep of sensors and TWS components to ensure reliable operation.
- Performance evaluation: Methods to evaluate TWS effectiveness, including cross-correlation with external data sources and sample evaluation procedures (Annex D).
- Testing of detectors (Annex E, normative): Laboratory and optional field tests for sensor robustness, EMC, IP rating, mechanical, corrosion and UV resistance.
- Application guidance (Annex F, informative): Practical examples and parameter selection guidance for different use cases (e.g., sports fields, oil storage, cranes).
Applications and who uses it
IEC 62793 is intended for organizations implementing or procuring fixed thunderstorm warning systems to reduce lightning risk. Typical users include:
- Lightning protection engineers and consultants
- Safety and risk managers at industrial sites, utilities, airports, wind farms and large-event organizers
- System integrators and manufacturers of lightning detectors and LLS
- Facility operators (oil & gas, ports, construction, sports venues)
- Certification bodies and testing laboratories assessing detector performance
Practical uses include early evacuation alarms for open-air events, protective shutdowns for sensitive industrial processes, and operational safety for cranes, turbines and storage facilities.
Related standards
Refer to other IEC publications on lightning protection and guidance from IEC TC 81 (Lightning protection) for complementary normative and application-level requirements. Users should consult the latest IEC catalogue and national regulations for full conformity and implementation context.
Keywords: IEC 62793:2020, thunderstorm warning systems, TWS, lightning protection, lightning detection, lightning location system, alarm timeline, detector testing, Annex E, Annex F.
