Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
that are produced either at the facility or ultimately from its operations, and a
facility map.
Communication Equipment and Alarm Systems
Communication equipment and alarm systems are essential to notify plant per-
sonnel, to notify external agencies, and to coordinate response operations. Initial
notification equipment and procedures are especially important because their
effectiveness determines how rapidly the response actions can be initiated. Com-
munication equipment must be available to each function within the response
organization to prevent communication breakdowns.
Horns, Sirens, and Public Address Systems
Audible alarm systems are
commonly used in many industrial facilities. Horns and sirens rely on different
types and lengths of tones to convey messages. An alarm should not just warn
but also instruct people to perform specific assignments. However, horns and
sirens can convey only a very few simple messages. Public address systems are
limited in areas of excess external noise. In high-noise areas, it is appropriate to
install a visual signal (e.g., a flashing light) as well as an audible alarm system.
Systems that use belt-worn vibrators as alarm signals are also used.
Telephones
Telephones are often the preferred means of communication for
reporting emergencies and for communicating between different areas of the
plant. The EOC should be equipped with enough telephone lines to enable all
the members of the response teams to communicate effectively. Some lines should
be equipped for outgoing-only capability. Cellular phones are also very useful in
emergencies. They can be used to notify response personnel who are away from
the plant, by emergency management to direct operations while on the way to
the site, and even to coordinate the entire response effort.
Portable Radios
Radios are most effective for communicating with emer-
gency response teams operating in the field. In addition, they can be a backup
system in case of telephone communication breakdown. Emergency response
radios should operate on a frequency dedicated for emergency communicat-
ions only.
Mobile Phone/Text Messaging/Email
In recent years, new technology has
allowed the contact of many people simultaneously. Computer command centers
based at EOCs can now distribute, with just a few commands on a computer,
messages to people via phone, pager, fax, e-mail, and text message. Contact infor-
mation is inserted in a computer calling system. Messages can then be distributed
to a predetermined list of personnel based on the alert level and complexity of the
event. To reach a wider group, text messages can now be sent to cell phones over
a broad-based contact system. Personnel must register to receive the messages
and agree to follow emergency response protocol.
