What is the main purpose of a lightning protection system?

The primary aim of a lightning protection system is to safeguard buildings and structures from the destructive effects of lightning strikes. When lightning strikes a structure, the energy can cause significant damage, starting fires, damaging electrical systems, and compromising the structural integrity. A lightning protection system is designed to intercept the lightning strike, directing the electrical energy safely to the ground through an engineered path, thus minimizing the risk of harm to the structure and its occupants.

While other aspects, such as architectural design or aesthetic appeal, might be considered when integrating such a system into a building, they are not the fundamental purpose of lightning protection systems. Instead, those systems focus crucially on safety and risk mitigation, ensuring that structures can withstand the natural force of lightning without incurring damage.