AIR-TRAFFIC-CONTROLLER LIGHTNING STRIKE

Andersen Air Force Base in Guam boasts the tallest control tower in th e Air Force. In 1986, an air traffic controller was struck by lightnin g as the bolt proceeded through the tower. Although he received only a backache, the lightning left a hole with surrounding scorch marks on his fatigue shirt and his undershirt. The lightning strike also ignite d a portion of the field lighting panel, which caused the runway light s to go out immediately. Lack of a lightning rod is the most likely re ason the controller was struck. Proper precautions against lightning s trikes can prevent such occupational safety hazards.