In addition, you’ll find training and white papers on ECS-related subjects, including codes and standards and meeting intelligibility requirements for voice evacuation systems. Finally, you’ll find information on new software tools that can help you design intelligible voice evacuation systems for your ECS projects.

SpectrAlert^® Advance Dual Strobe and Dual Strobe with Speaker Expander Plates provide dual strobe and speaker strobe functionality that’s easy for a single person to wire and install. Simply mount the plate to a junction box and connect the field wiring to the terminals. To complete the installation, hinge and attach the strobe or speaker strobe device with a single captured mounting screw.

Dual Strobe and Dual Strobe with Speaker Expander Plates are designed for use in 12 or 24 volt, DC or FWR (full wave rectified) systems. Amber lens strobes are UL 1638-Listed (Visual Signaling Appliances) for Private Mode General Utility Signaling. All SpectrAlert Advance products are suitable for use in synchronized systems. To learn more, visit systemsensor.com/ecs.

“With the System Sensor ECS devices, customers get all the time and money-saving innovations they have come to expect from SpectrAlert Advance. This includes plug-in designs, field-adjustable settings, universal mounting plates with onboard shorting springs and accessories that extend the versatility of the products,” says Josie Slaughter, System Sensor product manager. “Emergency Communications is a growing marketplace, and all of these familiar features make it easy for businesses to grow with the ECS market.”

All SpectrAlert Advance indoor and outdoor ECS devices are compatible with the rest of the SpectrAlert Advance line. Amber lens strobes, speaker strobes and ALERT-printed devices meet a range of ECS and MNS requirements, including those for the Department of Defense and NFPA 72, 2010. For added versatility, plain devices with decals are available for general signaling applications and color lens attachments can easily convert any clear strobe for ECS or general signaling purposes. To learn more about SpectrAlert Advance ECS and MNS devices, visit www.systemsensor.com/av.

The ability to provide real-time information to all building occupants or personnel on a business campus during emergency situations has become a critical concern for those who manage and safeguard facilities and their occupants. As a result, interest in ECSs and Mass Notification Systems (MNSs) is growing rapidly. But with this accelerated growth comes confusion.

The new Web site is dedicated to providing the latest information on all aspects of ECS, from its roots in military mass notification mandates to the latest solutions that meet communications, signaling, and intelligibility requirements for public and private applications.

A learning hub for building owners, facility managers, architects, engineers, and end users, the Web site provides links to downloadable white papers, articles, case histories, newsletters, webinars and more. You can also tap into the Honeywell Fire Systems Group Services capabilities for design and applications services.

A complete, integrated life safety solution has been shown to be a very effective means to notify occupants of the necessary response and appropriate action to take in the event of an emergency. By basing systems on its existing commercial Fire Alarm and Signaling platforms, Honeywell Life Safety provides timely, high-performing solutions to the marketplace. Significant solutions are provided on the www.emergency-communications-systems.com Web site and are available through NOTIFIER by Honeywell, Gamewell-FCI by Honeywell, and System Sensor.

The College Opportunity and Affordability Act, which includes amendments to the federal Jeanne Clery Act, states that schools also must provide “timely warnings” when an emergency or threat is present on campus.

Because minutes can mean the difference between life and death, the new  law now requires campus officials to notify the campus community immediately upon confirmation of a significant emergency, unless issuing the notification would compromise containment efforts. In the case of the Virginia Tech tragedy, for example, two hours passed between the discovery of the shooter’s first two victims in a dormitory and when the university issued its alert.

In addition, the amendment calls for colleges to create policies explaining evacuation procedures and emergency response. Federally funded college and universities would be required to publish fire safety reports yearly, including the cause of campus fires and the number of fires and fire-related deaths.

These efforts would:

• Boost campus safety and disaster readiness plans

• Help all colleges develop and implement state-of-the-art emergency systems and campus safety plans, and require the Department of Education to develop and maintain a disaster plan in preparation for emergencies

• Create a National Center for Campus Safety at the Department of Justice

• Establish a disaster relief loan program to help schools recover and rebuild following a disaster

The new law compels universities and colleges to use state-of-the-art methods and technologies to improve campus security. The most integrated solutions are emergency communications systems (ECSs), which are becoming an integral part of both emergency and non-emergency communications for schools and organizations of all sizes. This is because an ECS is not simply a loudspeaker system; communication is only part of the solution. True ECSs involve a lot more than text messaging and intercoms. They involve integrated response to emergencies at every level of the school — a communications and emergency management tool.

ECSs can broadcast live, up-to-the minute emergency information to everyone in a building, campus, or multiple facilities spread across a large area to prevent injuries and save lives.

In addition to crime alerts, an ECS can warn people of severe weather, such as tornados or hurricanes; class cancellations because of a power failure, a gas line or water main break, or other utility problems; and biological and radiological accidents, or hazardous spills.

“A lot of what is in the room itself affects intelligibility, such as what’s on the floor and walls, how big the space is, ceiling height and ambient noise conditions,” says Christa Poss, Marketing Manager for the Audible/Visible Business Unit at System Sensor.

“Speakers are a small part of the overall picture,” adds Poss. Yet, system designers can make the most of speaker choices to maximize sound impact. System Sensor offers a variety of indoor and outdoor speakers that are appropriate for different applications. The SpectrAlert^® Advance SP Series speakers, for instance, are best for high fidelity sound output, whereas the SPV speakers are intended to deliver high volume sound output for use in high ambient noise applications.

Fire and life safety system designers can save time and money by installing only as many devices as necessary. To ensure proper coverage without under- or over-designing spaces, system designers can use EASE (Enhanced Acoustical Simulator for Engineers) software to plan their systems (visit www.systemsensor.com/ease). EASE 4.3 software models sound properties for specific environments and speaker configurations. Using the System Sensor speaker data, intelligibility scores and variables, such as room materials, ceiling height and speaker positioning, EASE analyzes the information so system designers can make appropriate decisions.

By plugging System Sensor speaker data into the commercially available EASE software, designers can add or delete speakers and suggest best placement and power tap settings of the speakers.

“System Sensor speakers have four different wattage settings, so the solution may be to add more speakers and tap them lower,” says Poss. Enabling users to run different scenarios with the EASE software to see how system changes impact the intelligibility score is invaluable in determining what is best for each application.

Once the speakers are installed, system designers can use intelligibility meters to read sound conditions and measure the effectiveness of the voice system at multiple locations within each commercial environment.

These handheld meters, says Poss, “take the unknowns away and demystify intelligibility” for building commissioning. During onsite demonstrations, “pink noise,” a type of sound with properties that make it a suitable reference signal for audio engineering, plays throughout the voice system, and the meter predicts the intelligibility score for each location.

Mass notification is a relatively new concept for the life safety community, which arose from the inability of emergency management personnel to communicate with and direct building occupants during emergencies. Since the publication of the Unified Facilities Criteria, a 2002 U.S. Department of Defense program outlining the design, operation and interfaces required for mass notification in military facilities (the final version for mass notification was approved in 2008), many U.S. military facilities throughout the world have installed mass notification systems (MNS). In the private sector, the demand for MNS has been rising steadily since Sept. 11, 2001. In response, the 2010 edition of NFPA 72 greatly improves design direction for the layout of intelligible voice systems.

The National Fire Protection Association introduced MNS criteria in the annex of the 2007 edition of NFPA 72, where it was presented for explanatory purposes only. After the 2007 edition of NFPA 72 was published, the NFPA Standards Council created a technical committee to develop a new chapter for the 2010 edition. Released in October 2009, the 2010 edition of the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code provides emergency communication system (ECS) requirements (which include MNS) in chapter 24.

Because the overall purpose of an ECS is to save lives and minimize injuries during emergencies, it is imperative for individuals to clearly understand voice messages delivered over facility-wide communications systems. As a result, the new ECS chapter includes intelligibility requirements for voice systems.

Intelligibility and Acoustically Distinguishable Spaces

What is intelligibility? Speech intelligibility is the measure of the effectiveness of speech. The measurement is usually expressed as a percentage of a message that is understood correctly. The 2010 edition of NFPA 72 defines intelligible (Section 3.3.126) as being capable of being understood, comprehensible and clear; intelligibility (Section 3.3.125) is the quality or condition of being intelligible.

The first step in designing an intelligible voice system is to determine what type of ECS the building owner desires. The voice communication system will often include in-building fire EVACS, in-building mass notification and a paging system to meet the day-to-day operational objectives. Chapter 24 of the 2010 code permits all three systems to be combined, resulting in an ECS.

Voice intelligibility requirements refer to “acoustically distinguishable spaces” (ADSs). This term, which is new to the 2010 edition of NFPA 72, originated from research conducted by the Fire Protection Research Foundation on how to design and measure intelligibility.

Section 3.3.2 defines an ADS as “distinguished from other spaces due to acoustical, environmental or use characteristics, such as reverberation time and ambient sound pressure level.” An ADS allows the building to be divided into definable spaces so the system designer can identify which spaces in a building may require voice intelligibility.

Not all areas of a building are required to have voice intelligibility. In fact, some building spaces may only require tone signaling, whereas other spaces may require no occupant notification at all. Per Section 24.3.1, an ECS must be capable of reproducing prerecorded or live messages with voice intelligibility in accordance with Chapter 18. Section 18.4.10.1 requires the system designer to identify ADSs during the planning and design of the ECS, and according to Section 18.4.10, each ADS may or may not require voice intelligibility.

Designing an intelligible voice system does not lend itself to prescriptive design as visible notification appliances do. Speech intelligibility is not a physical quantity measured in feet, amperes, volts or even decibels. It is highly recommended that designers refer to annex D to plan, design, install and test voice communication systems.

The majority of the annex contains recommendations for testing voice system intelligibility. Designers who are new to voice systems may want to consult other sources, such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) program for Audio Systems or the National Electrical Manufacturers (NEMA) Emergency Communications Audio Intelligibility Applications Guide. Due to the complexity of designing a voice system, it may also be useful to use a software design program to predict voice system intelligibility before installation. These software programs model acoustic properties for specific environments and speaker configurations.

Design Factors to Consider

Several factors to consider when designing a voice system are: signal-to-noise ratio, frequency response, harmonic distortion and reverberation. Therefore, properly designing an intelligible voice system requires knowledge of the acoustical factors that influence intelligibility, such as the anticipated background noise level, occupancy type and architectural design of the space. The acoustical properties of the materials on the walls, floors and ceilings significantly impact the intelligibility of the space. Achieving voice intelligibility may be difficult, or even impossible, depending on the architectural design.

An important step in designing a voice system is determining the effect of the environmental and acoustical properties on speaker placement. In the past, fire alarm voice systems typically had too few speakers. It is important for designers to require the right speaker quantity and placement to ensure proper intelligibility and audibility (decibel (dB) rating).

Section 24.4.1.2.2.1 requires the following be met for layout and design:

1) The speaker layout of the system shall be designed to ensure intelligibility and audibility.

2) Intelligibility shall first be determined by ensuring that all areas in the building have the required level of audibility.

3) The design shall incorporate speaker placement to provide intelligibility.

A rule of thumb is to install speakers in rooms with 10- to 12-foot ceiling heights at intervals measuring twice the ceiling height and 1 watt per 750 to 1,000 square feet. The ambient noise level of the space served by the speakers must be considered to ensure speakers produce the correct levels of intelligibility and audibility. Ideally, 10-15 dBA above average ambient sound levels provide adequate intelligibility.

For the effects of speaker distance and wattage on audibility, see Figure 1.

Avoid installing wall-mounted speakers in large rooms with ceilings up to 15 feet in height as this contributes to more reverberation due to longer distances to opposing walls. Also avoid installing speakers on ceilings that are greater than 20 feet in height, especially in rooms with highly reflective walls.

Testing Methodologies

Following installation, the system must be tested for intelligibility. It is important to note that speech intelligibility testing is usually described as predictions, not measurements. Most instrument users, however, refer to the results as measurements. Because portable intelligibility meters are most commonly used for the accurate test results, the results are usually referred to as measurements to avoid confusion.

In accordance with D.2.1.1.1 in the annex, the recommended method for measuring intelligibly is the Speech Transmission Index (STI) test protocol. STI is a quantitative methodology for measuring intelligibility. Another method, the Common Intelligibility Scale (CIS), was created to map all methods to the same scale so that all different results could be compared. In accordance with section D.2.4.1, the intelligibility of an ECS is considered acceptable if at least 90 percent of the measurement locations within each ADS have a measured STI of not less than 0.45 (0.65 CIS) and an average STI of not less than 0.50 STI (0.70 CIS).

Because clearly understanding a live or recorded voice message during an emergency is essential for the safety of a facility’s occupants, planning and testing is crucial. The best methodology to ensure a message is clear and intelligible in all situations is to measure intelligibility.

Speakers have been particularly susceptible to ground faults because they take up more room in the back box, sometimes forcing installers to crush or pinch wires when pushing the wired speaker into the back box to be mounted. The plug-in design of SpectrAlert Advance reduces ground faults and associated costs by enabling installers to pre-wire mounting plates and dress wires before connecting the speakers. To further reduce ground faults, the speakers have a protective cover that eliminates exposed speaker components and prevents nicked wires. In addition, a shorting spring on the mounting plate tests wiring continuity to provide instant feedback to installers during the installation.

SpectrAlert Advance Speakers transmit the clear, intelligible messages needed during emergency situations. The SP line of high-fidelity speakers can be selected for crisp, clean signals, and the SPV line of high-volume speakers can be chosen to command attention in environments with high ambient noise levels.

Like all products in the SpectrAlert Advance line, Speakers and Speaker Strobes include all the innovative features that make SpectrAlert Advance the broadest, most versatile audible/visible notification appliances in the industry.

For example, field-selectable candela settings and 12- or 24-volt operation make a single device adaptable to a wide range of applications, simplifying inventory, specification and installation. In addition, SpectrAlert Advance Speaker Strobes offer the lowest current draw available on all candela settings, with measurable savings especially on the high candela models. This enables more appliances to be installed on a single circuit, reducing installation time and project costs.

Following are features available throughout the SpectrAlert Advance product line:

• Plug-in design
• Electrical compatibility with legacy SpectrAlert products
• Field-selectable candela settings on wall and ceiling units
• Universal mounting plate fittings for both wall- and ceiling-mounted units
• Compatibility with System Sensor synchronization protocol
• Automatic selection of 12- or 24-volt operation at 15 and 15/75 candela
• Inclusion of an optional tamper-resistant Torx head screw

What types of smoke and other detection devices are on your campus?

Nearly 100 percent of all Mercyhurst’s buildings are protected by automatic fire alarm systems installed in compliance with NFPA 72, ICC/IFC occupancy requirements. Certain student residences (townhouses) are equipped with interconnected single/multi-station smoke detection in accordance with applicable sections of NFPA 72, ICC/IFC for household warning equipment. We use primarily photoelectric smoke detectors that are comprised of several manufacturers of FACP devices. We are currently streamlining the process and focusing on solitary manufacturers for compatibility and integrating multiple systems from various manufacturers to operate as a single unit.

How often are devices inspected?

Our automatic fire alarm systems and associated smoke, heat, initiation and notification devices are continuously monitored. Single- and multi-station detectors are used locally. All of our installed fire detection systems and equipment are periodically inspected and maintained for proper working order in accordance with chapter 7 of NFPA 72. In addition, all systems are tested annually by an approved independent agency.

What are Mercyhurst’s procedures for dealing with false alarms and fire drills?

All systems and equipment are maintained to function as designed. We have an annual average of less than six false alarm activities by manual means. These incidents are followed up and addressed by the college. In areas subject to impact, the manual fire pull stations are protected by approved covers to prevent accidental activations. Transmitted active fire alarms by initiation device, which were a result of system trouble, are identified and corrected in a timely manner. We conduct monthly fire exit drills in all freshmen housing.

How has Mercyhurst responded to the need for mass notification?

Mercyhurst launched a text message emergency notification system in 2007 called e2Campus to extend the reach of existing emergency notification measures. It includes campus wide e-mails and Web page updates to alert students anywhere, any time. Also, the college has both radio and television stations, and these media outlets are included in our emergency preparedness planning.

What is your relationship with the local fire department?

We have an excellent relationship with the City of Erie Fire Department as I am a retiree after a 31-year career. Unfortunately, in this and many areas of the country, economic conditions are affecting the function of public safety. To compensate, proper and expanded fire protection systems and structures are becoming a more important strategy to ensure life safety and protect property.

How do you accommodate physically challenged students and staff?

A percentage of our student housing units contain ADA-compliant alarm system notification and activation devices to accommodate persons with disabilities. General building protection systems are compliant with ADA where required and are periodically upgraded when necessary. Directional sounders are a new technology that I highly recommend for new construction and addition/expansions to existing systems.

Pennsylvania has carbon monoxide (CO) legislation pending. How will that affect Mercyhurst?

Addressable CO detection should become a standard for fire alarm systems, including retrofitting of existing systems. One of the questions I would ask is: Will the CO detection legislation be directed to meet code compliance?

What is your role in renovations or new construction?

Life safety is a critical component of the plans review process. My participation is for the review of the fire protection systems and structures of the building. My role is to ensure all life safety requirements are met and suggest additions, expansions and compliance.

How does Mercyhurst handle fire-related accident investigation and documentation?

All received fire alarm activations are followed up. When there is an actual smoke or fire associated with the event, a complete investigation is conducted and a report is generated. In the case that an injury is associated with the event, a detailed investigation is conducted and documented, including all outside resources by requirement or request.

How do you respond to student inquiries about careers in fire service?

Periodically, students will inquire about a career in fire service and we enthusiastically provide information on all areas of fire service. Also, my credentials in fire investigation and fire code/inspection experience provide me with the opportunity to conduct lectures for several majors. This class instruction usually generates student interest in the area of fire scene investigation and code and inspection applications.

What do you see for the future of fire and life safety on college campuses?

Fire safety professionals across America agree that the direction of the fire service is changing. As we become more proactive, it is becoming more focused on prevention and protection. This includes modern fire detection systems and the fire sprinklering of buildings. Today’s new buildings are better protected with detection devices, noncombustible and fire-resistant materials and sprinkler systems as opposed to 50 or 60 years ago.

Life on college campuses and in off-campus housing is a real concern and has made tragic headlines. Fire safety and prevention information delivery has made significant gains with the emergence of organizations that specifically target schools, colleges and universities.

There are approximately 17 million students enrolled in colleges and universities across the U.S. Reaching out to these students and making them more aware of fire safety is becoming a national trend and is changing the pattern and delivery of fire safety. These informed college students will be the decision-makers of tomorrow and will create a safer and better informed world.