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Outdoor Warning Systems
Advancements in outdoor warning systems technology and the design of future power plants is creating a need for new and updated outdoor warning system designs. Ensuring that these new and updated systems comply with all FEMA and NRC regulations can be a daunting task. Blue Ridge Research and Consulting has the experience and know-how to help facilitate this process. From outdoor measurements to custom modeling, we can provide the analysis.
System Design Review
The rich acoustics background of BRRC along with the extensive knowledge of FEMA and NRC regulations allows for detailed third-party design reviews of proposed siren systems. This allows for a clearer understanding of how different parts of the siren system comply with the various regulations helping to get these new designs accepted.
Outdoor Sound Measurements
BRRC is experienced in outdoor sound measurement including warning system sirens, civil and military aviation noise sources, high-power artillery sources, as well as many others.
Individual siren measurements are made using state of the art equipment to meet ANSI Standard S12.14 requirements on both fixed and rotating sirens.
Because of our experience with warning systems, BRRC knows which procedures and precautions are required to correctly characterize the output from all types of sirens. Different techniques are used when testing Omni-directional sirens versus rotating sirens for instance.
The current ANSI Standard calls for the testing of individual sirens at close range (100 ft). However, BRRC has found it useful to also collect data far from the individual sirens as spot checks to ensure the system is functioning properly.
Testing the output from a full siren system sounding in the far-field typically requires personnel to be present at each measurement location. These people are located from one to two miles from the closest siren and record the received sound level before, during, and after the test.
From small measurements involving only a few locations to extensive testing spread out through the EPZ, BRRC has the capability and experience necessary to make the testing process smoother. BRRC also provides detailed analysis of all aspects of the testing including weather conditions, frequency content of the measured acoustic signal, as well as a detailed description of the siren sound level for each test.
Outdoor Sound Propagation
BRRC has spent the past several years developing advance noise models to better quantify the effects of differing terrain and weather conditions on long-range outdoor sound propagation. When these noise models are applied to individual sirens, it is possible to identify specific coverage, allowing a better understanding of the siren’s capabilities. When applied to an entire outdoor warning system, these modeling tools provide a high-quality coverage map which can also provide detailed population counts. These maps can be used as part of a completed Design Report.
New Impending Requirement
With the new impending requirement of battery backups for all outdoor warning systems, it will be crucial to make sure the systems remain in compliance, and Blue Ridge Research and Consulting can help.
Download the Outdoor Warning Systems Brochure (PDF)
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