Various Problems Found in EAS Test

FEMA is gathering reports from test participants and asking stakeholders to send tips and suggestions. Many are suggesting incorporating social media and smart phones next time.

The first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System that took place on Nov. 9 produced the desired result, according to FEMA: It identified gaps and will allow FEMA and the Federal Communications Commission to figure out how to fix them. FEMA is still gathering reports from participants and has asked stakeholders to send tips and suggestions. Many are suggesting incorporating social media and smart phones next time.

Damon Penn, assistant administrator of National Continuity Programs for FEMA, posted a recap on an agency blog on the evening of Nov. 9 thanking participants and explaining the next steps.

"As we have been explaining throughout this process, this initial test was the first time we have gotten a sense of the reach and scope of this technology," he wrote. "It was our opportunity to get a sense of what worked, what didn't and additional improvements that need to be made to the system as we move forward. It's only through comprehensively testing, analyzing, and improving these technologies that we can ensure the most effective and reliable emergency alert and warning systems available at a moment's notice in a time of real national emergency. This nationwide test served the purpose for which it was intended -– to identify gaps and generate a comprehensive set of data to help strengthen our ability to communicate during real emergencies. Based on preliminary data, media outlets in large portions of the country successfully received the test message, but it wasn't received by some viewers or listeners."

Penn said FEMA wants to hear from stakeholders who want to share feedback about how the test worked and ways to improve it. Those comments can be e-mailed to [email protected]

Industrial Hygiene Product Showcase

  • Halo™ Eye/Face Wash Provides Greatest Washdown

    Halo™ Eye/Face Wash Provides Greatest Washdown

    Bradley’s Halo™ eye and eye/face wash arms users with the most effective emergency relief available in the industry. Halo provides 20 percent better protection than any other model on the market. With a more uniform and complete spray pattern distribution, and exclusive features that increase hygiene, users attain the greatest contaminant relief and protection available. Using the latest technology in fluid dynamics, Halo works in tandem with a pressure regulated flow control and the spinning motion of water, which creates an optimal spray pattern to rinse off contaminants quickly and thoroughly, ensuring the most effective flush available. 3

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without needing to be recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Additionally, it is durable enough to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, which is why it has an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as Gas Clip Technologies’ new GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. 3

  • Combating Combustible Dust with Compressed-Air Operated Vacs

    Combating Combustible Dust with Compressed-Air Operated Vacs

    VAC-U-MAX offers a full range of compressed-air operated industrial vacuum cleaners for high volume recovery of combustible dust, flammable liquid, and reactive powder. Systems do not require electricity for operation, only compressed air and are ATEX tested and Certified. Fill out RFQ at www.vac-u-max.com/vacuum or call (800) VAC-U-MAX. 3

Featured

Webinars