Mass Notification Systems

Ever since such events as the shootings at Virginia Tech and the sniper at Ft. Hood, there has been increasing interest in mass notification systems (MNS). Do you have one or are you thinking of implementing one? If so, you will appreciate the information in this week's articles.

Everything you didn't know you needed to know about MNS solutions. (Item #1)   There are many different types of MNS solutions; here is some info about them. (Item #2)   All types of organizations are now using MN systems. (Item #3)  

Here's how to use a MN system for full fire protection. (Item #4)   Take a look at mass notification via social networks. (Item #5)   Find out where and how code plays a part in MNS, as well as the many different types of systems and applications. (Item #6)  

As always, we look forward to hearing your comments & insights regarding business continuity. If you have a topic you'd like us to cover, email me at [email protected].

Bob Mellinger, President
Attainium Corp

1. MNS Solutions for a Changing World

In recent years, we have become all too familiar with the events that warrant the use of a mass notification system (MNS). To better protect their corporate offices, industrial complex, or college campus, facility managers have begun asking questions about MNS technology and its varied applications; this article has some of the answers.
http://facilitymanagement.com/articles/security2-0408.html

2. Amassing Mass Notification Know-How

Mass notification is an area that has received a great deal of attention in recent years. Unfortunately this is largely due to tragic incidents that have exposed the vulnerabilities of certain populations and environments, consequently emphasizing the need for better communications and alerting. Fortunately, a number of solutions are available to address these needs.
http://www.securitysales.com/channel/fire-life-safety/articles/2011/05/amassing-mass-notification-know-how.aspx

3. Mass notification goes mainstream

As the MNS industry develops and grows, mass notification increasingly is in demand by a more diverse market, according to industry experts. In upstate New York, for example, industries ranging from an ice cream-making plant to an aerospace manufacturer have added mass notification systems. In the Midwest, commercial buildings are showing greater interest since weather disasters such as the tornado that devastated Joplin, Mo., last May. And demand for mass notification is growing in K-12 schools and healthcare facilities all over the country, sources tell Security Systems News.
http://www.securitysystemsnews.com/article/mass-notification-goes-mainstream

4. Mass Notification Systems: The Importance of Fire Safety

If a fire emergency develops are you prepared to save lives, as well as your property? If you are not sure how you would alert people during a fire emergency, you need a Mass Notification System in place. This article will provide you information on how to implement full-service fire protection with a Mass Notification System.
http://www.fireline.com/blog/mass-notification-systems-the-importance-of-fire-safety

5. Integrating Social Networks in Emergency Mass Notification Systems

In the last several years, social networks have undergone explosive growth. Penetration and high adoption in areas as diverse as higher education, business, and recently the Department of Defense, demand that this important communications channel be incorporated in any emergency mass alerting system.
http://www.tmcnet.com/ucmag/columns/articles/218094-integrating-social-networks-emergency-mass-notification-systems.htm

6. Notification Methods You Need to Know

Last month served as an overview and introduction to mass notification systems (MNS) and emergency communications systems (ECS). As promised, we will now expand upon that material and discuss the various types of systems that fall under these headings.
http://www.securitysales.com/channel/fire-life-safety/articles/2012/04/notification-methods-you-need-to-know.aspx