5
Safety Messages
Description, Specifications, Installation, and Service Manual
Federal Signal
www.fedsig.com
Safety Messages
It is important to follow all instructions shipped with this product. This device is to be
installed by trained personnel who are thoroughly familiar with the country’s electric
codes and will follow these guidelines as well as local codes and ordinances, including
any state or local noise-control ordinances.
Listed below are important safety instructions and precautions you should follow:
Important Notice
Federal Signal reserves the right to make changes to devices and specifications
detailed in the manual at any time in order to improve reliability, function, or design. The
information in this manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate;
however, no responsibility is assumed for any inaccuracies.
Publications
Federal Signal recommends the following publications from the Federal Emergency
Management Agency for assistance with planning an outdoor warning system:
• The “Outdoor Warning Guide” (CPG 1-17)
• “Civil Preparedness, Principles of Warning” (CPG 1-14)
• FEMA-REP-1, Appendix 3 (Nuclear Plant Guideline)
• FEMA-REP-10 (Nuclear Plant Guideline).
Planning
• If suitable warning equipment is not selected, the installation site for the siren is not
selected properly, or the siren is not installed properly, it may not produce the intend-
ed optimum audible warning. Follow Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
recommendations.
• If sirens are not activated in a timely manner when an emergency condition exists,
they cannot provide the intended audible warning. It is imperative that knowledgeable
people, who are provided with the necessary information, be available at all times to
authorize the activation of the sirens.
• When sirens are used out of doors, people indoors may not be able to hear the warn-
ing signals. Separate warning devices or procedures may be needed to warn people
indoors effectively.
• The sound output of sirens can cause permanent hearing damage. To prevent exces-
sive exposure, carefully plan siren placement, post warnings, and restrict access to
areas near sirens. Review and comply with any local or state noise control ordinances
as well as OSHA noise exposure standards, regulations, and guidelines.
• Activating the sirens may not result in people taking the desired actions if those to
be warned are not properly trained about the meaning of siren sounds. Users should
follow FEMA recommendations and instruct those to be warned of corrective actions
to be taken.
