Implementing An Emergency Communication System (ECS)

ABOUT EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

Emergency Communication Systems (ECS) are designed to alert and evacuate occupants of a building in case of emergency situations. Think of an ECS as an evolution of traditional fire alarms which provided alerts using simple horns and lights. An ECS will alert in case of fire, but also in situations like active shooters, intruders, dangerous accidents, and severe weather.

Emergency communication systems use a combination of voice calls, text messaging, email, flashing strobe lights, an alpha-numeric signs to alert and instruct occupants of critical updates. With real-time notifications sent direct alerts to an occupant’s cell phones or computer screens, they are empowered to react swiftly. A modern ECS allows leaders explain the safest path to exit a facility to avoid an active shooter or raging fire. They can tell others to stay away from a facility until a threat is clear.

Working in tandem with a company’s business continuity plan, an ECS not only alerts occupants of an emergency, but also advises them on the nature of the emergency and provides instructions on the correct actions to take.

ECS APPLICATIONS FOR FIRE AND NATURAL DISASTERS

An ECS provides flexible solutions to protect employees during a potential threat. Upon detection of fire or impending natural disaster (such as a tornado or earthquake), the ECS sends an alert tone over speakers, alerting occupants to the message that will follow. The system then plans a pre-recorded message providing evacuation or shelter-in-place directions. The tone and message are accompanied by flashing strobe lights and scrolling LED signs located in areas of congregation. The messaging mirrors the spoken message, providing visual cues to the occupants.

While a traditional FAS would alert occupants via a horn tone and strobe lights, an ECS provides verbal communications. An ECS also brings critical messaging about fire and natural hazards directly to occupants’ cellphones via emails, texts, and phone calls. The direct notifications are particularly important when surprise is a key element. Hurricanes can be predictable but other perils like tornadoes, earthquakes, flooding, or equipment accidents catch many by surprise.

ECS APPLICATION FOR INTRUDERS AND ACTIVE SHOOTER SITUATIONS

As increasing attention is brought to the hazards of intruders and active shooters in the workplace, emergency communication systems are becoming a more common solution. If a potentially dangerous intruder is spotted within the building, an ECS can be manually activated, sending an alert tone over speakers alerting occupants to the pre-recorded message. Shelter in place and lockdown orders can be communicated, or instructions for safe evacuation away from harm. Messages from an ECS can be delivered in a variety of ways from flashing strobe lights and scrolling LED signs to text messages and emails.

Facilities Commonly Using Emergency Communication Systems