In industrial environments where explosive atmospheres can form—chemical plants, refineries, grain silos, service stations—lightning poses a particularly significant threat. A single spark can be enough to trigger an explosion with catastrophic consequences. Lightning protection in ATEX zones is therefore a regulatory and standards requirement that no operator can disregard.
This article details the specific requirements that apply to these sensitive areas, how the IEC 62305 relates to ATEX regulations, and the suitable protection solutions offered by LPS France .
What is an ATEX zone?
The term ATEX (ATmosphères EXplosibles, or Explosive Atmospheres) refers to areas where explosive mixtures of flammable substances with air can form. European Directive 2014/34/EU (formerly 94/9/EC) regulates equipment intended for use in these areas. In France, it is supplemented by Decree 2002-1553 concerning the prevention of explosions in the workplace.
ATEX zone classification
ATEX zones are classified according to the frequency and duration of the presence of an explosive atmosphere:
Gas/vapor/fog zones:
- Zone 0 : explosive atmosphere present permanently or for long periods
- Zone 1 : Explosive atmosphere likely to form during normal operation
- Zone 2 : Explosive atmosphere unlikely during normal operation, only for a short period
Combustible dust zones:
- Zone 20 : Permanent cloud of combustible dust
- Zone 21 : Dust cloud likely to form during normal operation
- Zone 22 : Dust cloud unlikely, only for a short time
Lightning as a source of ignition: a major risk
In ATEX zones, any energy source capable of igniting an explosive atmosphere must be controlled. Lightning can trigger an explosion in several ways:
- Direct impact : the lightning channel (temperature of 30,000 K, current up to 200 kA according to IEC 62305-1 LPL I) is an obvious ignition source.
- Lateral arc : In the absence of proper descent, the lightning current can cause arcs between conductors and metallic structures.
- Conducted overvoltages : currents induced by lightning on power or communication cables can create sparks in electrical equipment in ATEX zones
- Thermal effects : even without direct impact, induced currents can cause dangerous heating
The assessment and control of this risk are required by ATEX regulations within the framework of the Document Relating to Protection against Explosion (DRPE) , which every operator of an ATEX zone must establish and keep up to date.
IEC 62305 standard requirements for ATEX zones
IEC 62305-2: Enhanced risk analysis
Lightning risk analysis (LRA) according to IEC 62305-2 takes on particular significance for ATEX zones. The consequences of a lightning strike are no longer limited to direct lightning damage: the risk of secondary explosions and their associated consequences must also be considered. This analysis almost always leads to the selection of LPL I or LPL II (the most stringent levels) for ATEX installations.
IEC 62305-3: Special requirements for external SPF
In ATEX zones, the external lightning protection system (LPS) must comply with additional requirements:
- equipotential bonding between all metallic structures to prevent potential differences that generate arcs.
- Offset or mechanically protected downpipes to prevent any lateral arcing near explosion risk zones
- Grounding connections with particularly low resistance to dissipate lightning currents without dangerous phenomena
- Isolation or relocation of downpipes from the most sensitive ATEX zones (zones 0 and 20)
IEC 62305-4: SPD protection in ATEX zone
Surge protectors installed in ATEX zones must be certified for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. Type 1 and Type 2 surge protectors must meet the requirements of Directive 2014/34/EU and bear the appropriate ATEX marking (equipment category, group, temperature class).
Lightning rods in ATEX zones: what the regulations say
The question of using a single-point or early streamer emission (ESE) lightning rod in an ATEX context requires a precise answer. The lightning rod itself—head unit and mounting mast—is installed outside the classified ATEX zones , high up on the structure. It is not equipment intended to operate in an explosive atmosphere as defined by Directive 2014/34/EU, and therefore does not require separate ATEX marking.
However, downhill drivers may cross or run alongside ATEX zones. In this case, they must be:
- Positioned at a sufficient distance from sensitive areas to avoid any lateral arcing
- Isolated or mechanically protected in passageways
- Connected to the ground Equipotential Spark Gap at the zone entrance
For lightning rod head-mounted impact detection systems (such as Contact@ir ) , the radio transmitter is installed at the top of the mast, outside the classified area. No active electronic components are located within the ATEX zone.
LPS France solutions for ATEX zones
Single-point lightning rods conforming to IEC 62305
For installations requiring lightning protection in ATEX environments, LPS France offers its range of single-point lightning rods compliant with IEC 62305-3. These passive devices (without electronics embedded in the area) are often the most suitable solution for the most sensitive zones (Zones 0 and 20). The range includes franklin simple rod , down conductors, earthing electrodes, and mounting accessories, all available in certified materials (copper, stainless steel, aluminum) compliant with IEC 62305-3 requirements.
Impact detection and remote monitoring
In ATEX zones, every human intervention represents an additional risk to manage. Remote monitoring of lightning protection systems therefore becomes an operational priority. The Contact@ir system offers several critical advantages:
- Impact detection without human presence in the ATEX zone — the transmitter is at the top of the mast, outside the classified area
- Data-driven intervention decision : a technician is only sent to a sensitive area if an impact has actually been recorded.
- Full traceability for DRPE and regulatory audits
- Multi-site monitoring via LPS Manager for operators of multiple ATEX sites
Strike Radar: Certified lightning activity data
For ATEX sites that do not yet have an on-board sensor, or to extend monitoring to the surrounding environment, Strike Radar provides an essential complementary dimension. This LPS France — requiring no on-site hardware installation —allows users to:
- View the certified history of lightning strikes within a 100 km radius of the site
- Download a lightning strike certificate in case of a detected impact
- Nsg parameter (ground lightning density) from real data to refine the ARF according to IEC 62305-2
- Make an informed decision about whether a post-impact check is necessary, without unnecessary systematic travel to the ATEX zone
Strike Radar is available on demand. To learn more: Discover Strike Radar .
Sky Sentinel: Real-time storm alert
In addition to physical protection, Sky Sentinel is a real-time storm warning service compliant with the IEC 62793:2020 standard. For an ATEX site, anticipating the arrival of a storm cell allows you to:
- Trigger ATEX emergency procedures before the risk is confirmed
- Evacuate sensitive areas in anticipation
- Suspend risky operations (loading/unloading flammable products, work in hazardous areas)
Strike Radar (certified post-impact data) and Sky Sentinel (pre-impact alert) together form a complete monitoring system for ATEX site managers.
Maintenance of protection systems in ATEX zones
Lightning protection systems in ATEX zones are subject to a dual maintenance regime:
- Periodic checks according to IEC 62305-3 : complete visual inspection at the frequencies defined by the selected LPL
- Post-impact checks : mandatory after any confirmed lightning strike to ensure that the system remains operational and that no components have been damaged.
- Inspections under the DRPE (Regional Directorate for the Protection of Electrical Installations): electrical installations in ATEX zones are subject to specific inspections by accredited bodies.
The combination of a certified lightning protection system, Contact@ir monitoring and Strike Radar makes it possible to meet all these maintenance obligations simultaneously, efficiently and in a documented manner.
The DRPE: an essential document for ATEX zones
Every operator of an ATEX zone must establish an Explosion Protection Document (DRPE) , which must identify all potential ignition sources, including lightning. This document must demonstrate that appropriate prevention and protection measures have been implemented. The lightning risk analysis according to IEC 62305-2 and the installation documentation are the key components of this regulatory file.
Conclusion
Lightning protection in ATEX zones combines the requirements of two demanding regulatory frameworks: the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU and the IEC 62305 standard. Far from being incompatible, these two standards complement each other to define complete and coherent protection.
LPS France supports ATEX zone operators from the design of the protection system to its maintenance, including risk analysis and regulatory documentation. Contact our experts for a personalized assessment of your ATEX installation.
