Five Ways to Support OSHA Requirements in the Workplace with Mass Notification
The Alertus Alert Beacon® notifies building occupants with both visible and audible alerts to accommodate people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or blind.
Organizations can promote safe working environments by implementing a mass notification system (MNS), which helps to mitigate workplace accidents and injuries. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standard 1910.165 requires alarm systems and procedures to alert employees during emergencies.
Below are five ways your workplace can comply with OSHA standards via mass notification:
When activated, emergency alerts scroll across digital signage and can be easily read from a distance.
The WiFi Panic Button is a wearable, wireless device that shares location and user information with responders, so help arrives faster.
Select an alert system capable of being seen and heard: An MNS can provide various alert tones, voice messages, and strobes to indicate that an alert is being issued. Organizations can utilize mobile apps to notify employees who might not be in the vicinity to recognize an audible or visual alarm.
Ensure that alerts are distinctive and recognizable: The MNS should be recognizable as a sign to evacuate in an emergency. In widespread and noisy environments, it is important to select an alerting system that is recognizable above ambient noise or light levels. This can include wide-area speakers, digital displays, and visual strobes to ensure effective communication.
Guide employees on how to report emergencies: Some mass notification systems can provide a means for employees to report emergencies. For instance, the Alertus System offers handheld WiFi Panic Buttons, enabling employees to call for help or activate the system during an emergency.
Emergency Action Plan (EAP) Communication: An EAP is a written document that facilitates and manages employer and employee actions during workplace emergencies. It must include specific instructions based on the emergency, such as evacuation routes, shelter-in-place guidelines, reporting procedures, and actions employees should take. Employers must communicate these guidelines across their organization to ensure everyone knows how to respond during an emergency.
Test the reliability and adequacy of the system: To comply with OSHA’s maintenance and testing requirements for alarm systems, most MNSs have automated testing features and can provide notifications if the system needs maintenance.
Meeting OSHA requirements is critical. Employers can improve employee communication, safety, and overall preparedness with an MNS. Contact us to determine how we can integrate with or enhance your current system.