The field problem
High-Rise — New Alamein
The foundation earthing arrangement was an incomplete straight run with branches concentrated on one side, while structural rebar was also intended as a natural lightning down-conductor path.
why the obvious answer can be misleading
Lightning current and equipotential bonding require a robust, continuous and spatially distributed foundation/structural network. Concentrating the termination on one side weakens current distribution and makes continuity of the natural path more critical.
Why it failed
Lightning current and equipotential bonding require a robust, continuous and spatially distributed foundation/structural network.
Concentrating the termination on one side weakens current distribution and makes continuity of the natural path more critical.
Follow the engineering
Switch between the field condition and the engineering concept. Trace the path and examine what changes.
Inspect the engineering detail
What changes
Develop a complete ring/mesh concept integrated with verified reinforcement continuity, defined connection points, structural coordination and the external earthing system.
Correction & verification
Develop a complete ring/mesh concept integrated with verified reinforcement continuity, defined connection points, structural coordination and the external earthing system.
Verification recorded in the case
- Test reinforcement/bonding continuity at defined points before the concrete structure becomes inaccessible.
- Record as-built topology and connection points.
- Repeat the measurement or functional test under a defined condition.
- Confirm continuity and mechanical integrity of the corrected path.
- Document instrument/setup, environmental condition and test method.
- Close the NCR/case only when evidence supports the conclusion.
References & project context
References are reproduced from the PIS casebook. Select the governing edition and project acceptance criteria before using them for a design. The diagrams explain the concept, rather than define construction dimensions.
IEC 62305-3; IEC 60364-5-54.
PIS reviewed field handbook · PIS-CS-013
View the original social cardThe engineering lesson
When the structure is part of the lightning path, foundation bonding becomes part of the LPS — not a secondary civil detail.
Take the lesson into your next design review.