Which of the following lists the three types of LPSs?

• A. Mast system, central system, integral system
• B. Primary system, secondary system, tertiary system
• C. Integrated system, century system, mast system
• D. Integral system, centenary system, mast system

Answer: (D)

Lightning protection systems come in three main configurations, defining how the air terminations and conductors are arranged to intercept a strike and safely route it to the ground.

The mast system uses air terminals placed at high points on tall masts or towers, with conductors running down the structure to ground at multiple points. This setup is effective for large or irregular buildings where high points are readily available.

The central system relies on a network of conductors spread across the roof or along the perimeter, with several down conductors to ground. It’s a practical option for buildings with complex shapes or flat roofs where a mast system isn’t ideal.

The integral system integrates the protection into the building itself, using the building’s metalwork and structure as part of the air termination and conductor network. This minimizes external hardware and can be aesthetically preferred.

These three—mast system, central system, and integral system—are the standard classifications for LPS configurations. A choice that includes a term not used in standard practice (such as centenary/centennial) doesn’t fit the recognized categories.