UFC 4-021-01
18 DECEMBER 2002
CHAPTER 2
OVERVIEW OF MASS NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS
2-1
SCOPE. This chapter summarizes relevant DOD antiterrorism construction
standards, includes important definitions, and provides an overview of mass notification
systems. Typical implementation approaches are also described to clarify how a mass
notification system could be implemented.
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DOD ANTITERRORISM STANDARDS
2-2.1
Introduction. UFC 4-010-01 specifies when mass notification capability must
be provided.
2-2.2
Definitions. Refer to UFC 4-010-01 for the official definitions of terms used in
defining mass notification requirements. Additional information is provided in this UFC
on some of those terms.
2-2.2.1 Mass Notification. Mass notification is the capability to provide real-time
information to all building occupants or personnel in the immediate vicinity of a building
during emergency situations. To reduce the risk of mass casualties, there must be a
timely means to notify building occupants of threats and what should be done in
response to those threats. Pre-recorded and live voice emergency messages are
required by this UFC to provide this capability.
2-2.2.2 Inhabited Buildings. Mass notification capability is required for new
inhabited buildings. Most, but not all, DOD buildings will meet the criteria to be
considered an inhabited building.
2-2.2.3 Primary Gathering Buildings. Mass notification capability is required for
new primary gathering buildings, and for existing buildings with projects meeting the
replacement cost threshold specified in UFC 4-010-01. Primary gathering buildings are
inhabited buildings that are occupied by larger numbers of DOD personnel.
2-2.2.4 Billeting. Mass notification capability is required for new billeting buildings,
and for existing buildings with projects meeting the replacement cost threshold specified
in UFC 4-010-01. Billeting buildings are inhabited buildings that are used for sleeping by
unoccupied DOD personnel.
2-2.3
Applicability. See paragraph 1-3.2.
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TYPES OF MASS NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS
2-3.1
Individual Building System
2-3.1.1 Autonomous Control Unit. An autonomous control unit is used to monitor
and control the notification appliance network and provide consoles for local operation.
Using a console, personnel in the building can initiate delivery of pre-recorded voice
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