It is possible to find several systems in the field intended for warning people against imminent dangers. By delivering information in time, damage to health and property can be minimised. There are a few channels to provide an early warning message such as SMS, email, social networks, and others. This article will address the most effective method – the mass warning by an acoustic warning signal.

Depending on who is to be warned by an acoustic signal, these systems can be divided into two main categories:

• Public address systems
• Mass warning systems

It is quite clear from its name that a PA system is an address system, which means that an acoustic warning signal is targeted at specific recipients in specific areas. On the other hand, a mass warning system distributes the signal and informs a broad public.

The primary characteristics of the above systems are as follows:

Public address systems:

• A higher number of less powerful speakers
• Better message intelligibility
• Specific targeting
• Zoning
• Interconnectivity of the individual system elements via cable
• System back-up in case of a power failure

Applications:

• Interiors
• Office and school buildings
• Production halls
• Warehouses
• Sports facilities
• Churches and mosques

Mass warning systems:

• A smaller number of more powerful speakers
• More extensive acoustic coverage
• Risk diversification using multiple communication channels (analogue or digital radio, the Ethernet, fibre optics, GSM/GPRS, Wi-Fi, etc.)
• System back-up in case of a power failure
• Climatic resistance (IP54 – IP66)

Applications:

• Exteriors
• National and city warning systems
• Industrial and power plants
• Water dams
• Tsunami warning systems
• Open-mine pits and quarries
• Shooting ranges
• Golf courses

Both systems find their applications and have their advantages and disadvantages; therefore, it is suitable to combine them.

When deciding which of the systems is best for you, our company Telegrafia will be happy to assist you and provide you with all necessary details. Do not hesitate to contact us at sales@telegrafia.sk

The article was written by

Jan Suvak

Jan has been working for Telegrafia for over eight years. He started as a sales representative for warning systems in the Slovak and Czech Republics. He also participated in managing small projects at that time. He has been through a number of communications, sales, and management training courses ever since, thanks to which he is now working as the international business team leader. Selling is his hobby not just work, so, apart from managing his team, he sells warning systems in the Czech Republic and Arabic-speaking countries. He is keen on sport and hiking, and his greatest passion is cycling.