Tree lightning protections systems, purpose, reason, and objective:

When considering tree lightning protection systems, the user has to keep in mind that the purpose of the ANSI A300 (Part 4)-2008 standard is to provide standards for developing specifications for tree lightning protection system installation (43.1). The only reason for installing a tree lightning protection system is to reduce the risk of damage to trees from lightning strikes (43.2). Tree lightning protection systems do not protect buildings or property from damage or provide safe havens from lightning. The user needs to under-stand that the only objective for a tree lightning protection system is to provide a preferred path to ground for the electrical charge (46.1).

If there is danger from side flash or other lightning-induced damage to non-tree components, property, buildings, etc., or, the tree’s owner or owner’s agent have a different objective than outlined in this standard (46.1), then the appropriate standard practices must be followed as detailed by this standard’s normative references (44).