Those in the PSM/RMP world know that the facility is REQUIRED to have an Emergency Action Plan (1910.38) and by virtue of having to comply with 1910.38, we also have to comply with 1910.165 Employee Alarm System. The language in 1910.165 is really vague and causes much confusion when it comes to the emergency alarm system initiating means, especially when asked: “how many pull stations do I need?”
Here is what both OSHA and NFPA say…
NOTE: please see earlier articles about the alarm tones and their “distinctive signals” – this article is regarding the initiating of our alarm system.