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NFPA 78 was formerly known as the Lightning Protection Code, developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to address the protection of buildings and structures from lightning strikes. However, this standard was withdrawn in 1989 and replaced by NFPA 780, titled "Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection Systems."

NFPA 780 is the current and active standard that outlines the requirements for designing, installing, and maintaining lightning protection systems. It covers a wide range of applications, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, as well as special structures such as flammable storage facilities, wind turbines, watercraft, and solar panel arrays.

The standard includes detailed specifications for system components like:

• Air terminals (lightning rods)
• Conductors
• Grounding electrodes
• Bonding and surge protection

Its goal is to provide a safe path for lightning to travel to ground, thereby minimizing the risk of fire, structural damage, and injury. It does not cover protection for electrical utility systems (generation, transmission, distribution), which are governed by other standards.

NFPA 780 aligns with other lightning protection standards such as UL 96A and LPI 175, though each has unique testing and certification processes.

The most recent edition, NFPA 780-2023, includes updates based on current research and technology, such as provisions for airfield lighting, photovoltaic systems, and advanced grounding techniques.

If you're working on lightning protection systems today, NFPA 780 is the relevant and enforceable standard—NFPA 78 is only of historical interest. The 2023 edition of NFPA 780 is available from NFPA or authorized resellers.

NFPA 78, originally titled the Lightning Protection Code, was developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to provide guidance on protecting structures from lightning hazards. However, it was withdrawn in 1989 and replaced by NFPA 780, which remains the active standard.

NFPA 780, titled “Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection Systems,” outlines the design, installation, and maintenance of lightning protection systems. Its purpose is to safeguard buildings, critical infrastructure, and occupants by offering a reliable path for lightning energy to dissipate into the ground, preventing fire, damage, and injury.

The standard covers:

• Air terminals (lightning rods)
• Conductors and bonding
• Grounding electrodes
• Protection for surge-sensitive systems

NFPA 780 applies to diverse structures including homes, high-rise buildings, flammable storage tanks, wind turbines, solar arrays, watercraft, and airfield lighting systems. It provides guidelines for both ordinary and special-occupancy structures, particularly those with explosive or flammable atmospheres. It does not apply to electrical transmission or distribution systems, which are covered under separate NFPA or IEEE standards.

The current version, NFPA 780-2023, includes updates reflecting advancements in materials, risk assessment, and technology, including improvements in grounding and protection of renewable energy systems. NFPA 780 also aligns with UL 96A and LPI 175, though those standards serve different roles in product certification and system verification.

For designers, engineers, and inspectors, NFPA 780 is the definitive reference for ensuring code compliance and improving lightning safety. It’s essential for anyone involved in lightning protection system design or inspection, particularly in high-risk or mission-critical environments. The standard is available for purchase or viewing through the NFPA website and approved resellers. Let me know if you'd like help interpreting or applying any part of it.