Objective (HSE)
For an HSE manager, lightning risk is managed like any other operational risk: anticipate , decide , secure , and then resume operations at the right time. IEC 62305:2024 is part of a risk management that focuses on selecting mitigation measures (both technical and organizational). Within this framework, a lightning alert system should primarily enable the triggering of procedures and reduce personnel exposure .
Indeed, Sky Sentinel is a lightning warning solution designed for HSE environments (industry, energy, construction sites, telecoms, logistics) and structured around a key indicator: the TWS (Thunderstorm Warning System) .
Sky Sentinel in brief
Indeed, Sky Sentinel is a lightning alert solution that requires no on-site installation , can be deployed rapidly, and offers coverage of up to 50 km depending on the configuration. It provides:
- Multi-level alerts ( pre-alert, alert, end of alert)
- HSE monitoring ( user status, execution tracking)
- Useful traceability for audits and feedback
Lightning detection and “TWS” logic: what an IEC 62305:2024 compliant approach requires
Thus, in line with IEC 62305:2024, lightning protection isn't simply a matter of using a lightning rod; a risk management strategy . For the "people/operations" aspect, this involves a storm warning system (TWS) designed to:
- Detect relevant storm activity for the site (or anticipate it via weather/electrical indicators depending on the method chosen)
- alert thresholds
- Trigger HSE actions (stop exposed tasks, evacuation, securing the area, lockout/tagout procedures)
- Managing the recovery (end of alert after a period without significant activity)
- Document the implementation (traceability, procedures, training)
In other words, a TWS is useful if it is operational : it transforms "lightning" information into an HSE decision .
Why does Sky Sentinel respond to this TWS logic?
1) Usable alert levels (pre-alert → alert → end of alert)
Furthermore, an effective TWS must avoid two HSE pitfalls:
- Alerting too late (exposing the teams)
- Alerting too often (loss of support, workarounds)
Furthermore, Sky Sentinel structures information into levels to allow for a graduated response:
- Pre-alert : preparation, gradual securing, reminder of instructions
- Alert : Stop all hazardous activities, take shelter, strictly adhere to procedures
- Alert lifted : controlled resumption, return to normal
2) “Zone” coverage adapted to HSE sites (up to 50 km)
In many environments (PV parks, large industrial sites, linear construction sites, multiple locations), the “one sensor = one point” approach is sometimes insufficient or difficult to maintain.
Sky Sentinel provides a logical surveillance zone (up to 50 km depending on configuration), consistent with HSE management that reasons in terms of:
- Areas of intervention
- Risk areas
- Multiple sites
3) Rapid deployment, without infrastructure (zero on-site hardware)
A key point on the HSE side is operational availability : a TWS must be deployable quickly, without depending on an installation site, a power supply, a local network, or sensor maintenance.
Sky Sentinel stands out because of:
- Zero equipment on site
- Rapid commissioning (ideal for multi-site/subcontractor environments)
- Reduction of indirect costs (installation, maintenance, parts)
4) HSE monitoring: alerts + proof of execution
In reality on the ground, the issue is not just “sending an alert”, but ensuring that it is received and acted upon .
Sky Sentinel adds a TWS layer geared towards HSE management:
- User status visualization (color codes)
- Monitoring the execution of instructions
- HSE coordination / operations / subcontractors
5) Traceability and auditability (lessons learned)
IEC 62305:2024 emphasizes an approach to controlling and maintaining the level of safety. For an HSE professional, this implies being able to respond to:
- Who was alerted?
- When ?
- What instructions have been activated?
- When was the resumption authorized?
Sky Sentinel allows you to keep a history for:
- Internal/client audits
- Analysis of incidents and near misses
- Continuous improvement of procedures
Key Benefits (HSE)
- Reduction of people's exposure (working at height, open areas, networks, construction sites)
- Standardization of decisions (same thresholds, same rules, same messages)
- Fewer uncontrolled stops (faster and more consistent decisions)
- Improved compliance (procedures + traceability)
Typical use cases
- Industrial and petrochemical sites
- Photovoltaic and wind farms
- Telecommunications (pylons, field interventions)
- Ports, airports, logistics platforms
- Construction sites and multi-site maintenance
Best practices for integration (TWS + procedure)
To maximize effectiveness, Sky Sentinel must be integrated into a simple HSE procedure:
- Define alert levels and associated actions (pre-alert / alert / end of alert)
- Identify the activities to be suspended (work at height, lifting, open areas, network interventions)
- Define shelter zones and the decision-making chain
- Train the teams and subcontractors
- Leveraging traceability to adjust thresholds and improve the procedure
Conclusion
A TWS is not just a “lightning detection” tool: it is an HSE management . In line with IEC 62305:2024, Sky Sentinel meets this requirement by transforming storm information into multi-level alerts , facilitating safety measures , and providing monitoring and traceability — all without infrastructure constraints.
