Area Of Refuge and Mass Notification

The primary purpose of an AOR system is to ensure the safety and well-being of all building occupants during emergencies, including those who may have difficulties using traditional evacuation methods like stairs. Combine it with a Mass Notification System to alert occupants to impending danger, like weather events or industrial accidents, and you have the tools you need to save lives and coordinate evacuations from your facility.

An Area Of Refuge is a Temporary Shelter

• AORs provide a designated safe location where individuals can temporarily wait for assistance and protection from hazards like smoke and fire

• They Ensure that individuals with mobility impairments, disabilities, or other conditions that may hinder their ability to evacuate independently have a safe place to go and wait for help

• AORs are equipped with two-way communication systems to allow occupants to contact emergency personnel and facilitate a more efficient rescue

• Implementing AORs helps building owners comply with various building codes and safety standards, such as the International Building Code (IBC) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Key Components of an AOR System:

• Designated Refuge Area: A fire-resistant and smoke-protected space designed to hold occupants safely during emergencies

• Two-Way Communication System: A crucial component that enables communication between the refuge area and a central control point or emergency responders

• Call Box/Station: Located within the designated area, allowing occupants to initiate communication with the central control point

• Central Control Point (Base Station): A location within the building where calls from the refuge area are received and managed, usually a lobby, main office, or front desk

• Required Signage: Clear and visible signs indicating the location of the AOR and providing instructions for its use

Who Uses Area of Refuge:

• Individuals with disabilities

• Elderly individuals

• Hospital patients

• Individuals assisting those with mobility challenges

• Anyone unable to reach a safe escape route 

AOR and Mass Notification Systems Compliment Each Other:

• A Mass Notification System is Your True “First Responder”

• MNS allows organizations to send alerts instantly, ensuring that critical information is delivered as quickly as possible

• Many MNS can integrate with existing fire alarm systems, public address systems, and other critical infrastructure

• Some MNS offer features for two-way communication, allowing recipients to respond to alerts or provide feedback, which can improve situational awareness and coordination. 

• These systems typically use various communication channels to reach the widest audience, and enable your organization to send specific messages to different groups of people based on location, role, or other criteria, ensuring that the right information is delivered to the right audience. 

  • Pre-recorded or real-time paging system announcements

  • Sirens

  • Voice calls

  • Text messages

  • Email

  • Social Media

  • Two Way Radios