Why Your Clients Sound Masking is Competing with Life Safety
The Sound Masking Industry has seen tremendous growth for the last couple of years.
The Sound Masking Industry has seen tremendous growth for the last couple of years as more collaborative, open-plan workspaces become the norm and productivity a top concern for employers. Sound Masking works by introducing an ambient background sound into the environment to “cover” unwanted sound, rendering speech unintelligible. But what happens when an emergency communication is announced? Will your clients be able to understand the message?
Few people can think clearly and logically in a crisis, so it is important to have a system in place that can effectively communicate to ALL employees and direct them to safety. Systems that compete for or impede the audible signal MUST be shut off or muted to ensure the emergency communication is heard loud and clear. If a fire breaks out, employees need to know which staircases are safe to exit. If a shooter enters a building, employees need to be notified with a course of action – directing them to safety. Those with disabilities are especially at risk if there are multiple audible signals. Clear Communication is CRITICAL and can save lives.
Lencore’s i.Net® Sound Masking & n.FORM® Mass Notification Solutions have achieved the UL2572 listing by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) which allows them to integrate with the existing fire alarm panel. When a UL 2572 listed system and a fire alarm control panel coalesce, the sound masking shutdown sequence allows for a clear intelligible signal to be sent throughout a facility with no interference. A variety of communication platforms such as speakers, strobes, horns and more help achieve the right message and direct people to safety.
The best way to prepare for an emergency is BEFORE it happens. It is important to have a system in place that meets code and doesn’t impede on the life safety system. Sound Masking is designed to enhance both speech privacy and comfort, but not at the expense of your clients safety. With the latest systems, Lencore can reinforce the emergency communications and not impede on it.
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