Lightning & Static
Risks To Facilities
Direct and Indirect Lightning Strikes, Static, Automation Vulnerabilities, and Maintenance
the realities of facility risk
Oil and gas production and saltwater disposal (SWD) facilities face unique vulnerabilities to lightning and static-related events. These events can contribute to fires, equipment issues, and operational downtime. ENRG works with operators to identify areas of concern and recommend strategies that align with recognized industry standards. While no system can remove all risk, taking proactive steps can help reduce the likelihood and severity of incidents.
Our plan incorporates recommendations from standards for lightning protection and static mitigation, including NFPA, IEEE, API, and IEC.
Lightning & Static Risks
common lightning & static hazards
FIBERGLASS TANK FIRE
Movement of fluids in and out of insulated tanks can generate static charge. If that charge accumulates, it may discharge to nearby grounded metal, posing an ignition risk for vapors inside the tank.
THIEF HATCH FIRE
Sudden separation of a thief hatch lid from its base may generate static discharge in flammable environments, creating the potential for fire or injury if not properly addressed.
TRUCK LOAD OUT FIRE
Loading and unloading tank trucks can create static electricity. If that static is not safely dissipated, sparks may occur at vulnerable points during transfer operations.
EQUIPMENT VULVERABILITY
Lightning strikes or nearby events can induce surge voltages that affect pumps, control systems, and electronic equipment, contributing to costly downtime.
TANK BATTERY FIRE
Developing lightning storms can generate upward leaders, or streamers, from ground structures such as tanks. These high-energy events carry the potential to ignite vapors over a tank battery.
CONTROL SYSTEMS
Lightning elecromagnetic fields and surges can disrupt SCADA systems, antennas and solar charging equipment, reducing communication reliability and control functions.