Alarm Stations

Locate manual alarm stations throughout the facility. Position the alarms to ensure travel distances of no more than 200 ft when located on the same floor. Design audible alarms to exceed the level of any operational noise. Use audible alarms with visual alarm. 

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When dealing with an entire fire detection system that utilizes more than one type of detector, a Detonator Module greatly expands the flexibility and capability of the system. An individual Detonator Module can accept multiple inputs from UV and IR controllers, other Detonator Modules, manual alarm stations, heat sensors, smoke detectors or any contact closure device. In the event of a fire, any of these devices will cause the internal fire circuitry of the module to activate the detonator circuit, sound alarms, and identify the zone that detected the fire. When properly used, a Detonator Module will add only one millisecond to the total system response time. See Figure 8 for an illustration of a fire detection system with a Detonator Module. 

Alarms should be initialed by the local or main control facility for the location. Manual activation means should be provided for all emergency, fire, and toxic vapor alarm signals. Activation of fire suppression systems by automatic means should also indicate a facility alarm. Most fire and gas detection systems are also set to automatically activate alarms after confirmation and set points have been reached. Manual activation of field or plant alarm stations should activate the process or facility alarms. 

Automated detection and protection systems to signal at an offsite central alarm station service for continuous monitoring. 

This section includes guidelines for the central control station equipment, emergency alarm stations, supervisory devices, and visual and audible alarm services. These systems can be used for all types of in-house emergencies, such as fires, explosions, vapor releases, liquid spills, and injuries. 

Where releases of flammable or toxic chemicals are possible, a flammable or toxic gas alarm system is often established as part of the plant emergency alarm system. Best practices require different types of alarms to be annunciated differently, both audibly and visually. For example, the toxic alarm stations may be provided with a blue light to distinguish them from fire alarm stations that are red. A consistent color system for lights should be adopted. 

Emergency alarm systems should always have a manual means for initiating alarms. Manual alarm stations are normally located on the periphery of the processing or storage areas near an expected path of exit travel or at control rooms. The alarm boxes should not be located in areas that are electrically clas-... 

Fire-detection devices are usually installed in systems which combine manually activated fire-alarm stations and audible and visual warning devices. They may also be connected to fire-suppression systems in some hazardous areas. 

A local manual alarm station (spill alarm per 51.108(b)8) shall be provided... 

Buildings must contain a fire alarm or fire detection system that should automatically activate an alarm in the event of a fire. Install air conditioning, ducts, and any related equipment in accordance with NFPA 90A, Standard for Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilating Systems. Ensure people can hear fire alarms over normal operational noise levels. Locate manual fire alarm stations near each exit. Inspect fire extinguishers at least monthly and ensure regular maintenance. Test fire alarm/detection systems once a quarter. Publish and enforce a Smoking Policy. Implement appropriate electrical safety policies and educate aU personnel about fire safety and response plans. 

PSFs are the set of influences on the performance of an operating crew resulting from the human-related characteristics of the system, the crew, and the individual crew members. The characteristics include procedures, training, and other human factors aspects (e.g., MMIs in a control room, cockpit, alarm station, and operations center) of the working environment. 

Review the location and function of all emergency alarms and alarm stations. 

When an employee detects a fire, he/she must go to the nearest fire alarm station and activate the alarm by pulling on the lever. The alarms will notify the Emergencv Response Team as well as the Town of Fire Department. Fire alarms are located on each floor near the elevators, and also near each entry/exit door. 

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