OSHA Regulations for Employee Warning Systems
Some facilities must satisfy Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards that require employers to install employee alarm systems. Building Systems Solutions can custom design an employee warning system for your facility that covers the entire building, ensuring that all employees are protected and that you are in full compliance with OSHA standards. Contact us today to get started!
OSHA requires that Emergency Warning Systems:
- Can be heard above ambient noise levels.
- Have a distinctive and recognizable signal used only in emergencies.
- Give emergency messages priority over non-emergency communications if the emergency warning system is integrated with a paging system.
- Be tested every two months for reliability and adequacy.
- Are supervised, if applicable, and alert personnel if a defect exists in the system.
OSHA requires that all employers develop and implement Employee Emergency Response Plans that include an emergency alert system. Studies have shown that systems that utilize voice instructions as an alarm signal are more effective at disseminating emergency information than systems that use a siren.
International Standard ISO 7731 requires that the alarm signal be above 15 dB to eliminate interference from background noise, but also notes that an alarm that reaches 30 dB within half a second can startle employees and should be avoided.
Building Systems Solutions will test the ambient noise levels in your office space and use the data to build a custom employee warning system that complies with OSHA standards and shows due diligence in providing for your employees’ safety. Schedule a consultation today.
How Does an Emergency Warning and Paging System Work?
An emergency warning and paging system is comprised of the following components:
- Emergency Activation Console
Activates emergency messages and tones throughout buildings. - Supervised and Monitored Speaker System
Delivers clear, concise messages and tones. - Delivery of Signals and Messages
Signals and messages can be delivered via text message to cell phones and two-way radio systems. - Fully Networked
System can be networked to cover multiple buildings and sites. - Centralized Computer
A central computer can monitor, supervise, and make changes to the system.
Building Systems Solutions can identify your building’s unique acoustical needs during initial testing and design a system that will maximize the effectiveness of your message. Contact us today to get started!
Add a Sound Masking System
Along with emergency warning and paging systems, Building Systems Solutions provides facility sound systems that address safety, communication, and privacy concerns in offices of all types and sizes. Sound masking is a technology that adds background sound to a space to reduce noise distractions, cover private conversations, and create a more comfortable environment. If you’re interested in adding a sound masking system along with an emergency warning and paging system, please contact us for more details.
Contact Us to Ensure You Meet Emergency Warning System Standards
A voice intelligibility test conducted by Building Systems Solutions identifies your space’s compliance with ISO, ASTM, and ANSI standards. We will use the results of your test to design and install a customized emergency warning system – or upgrade an existing system – that will ensure the safety of all your employees and meet these codes. To get started, please give us a call at 763-502-1515, or fill out the contact form here.