Dial Telephones

DOE-STD-1031-92

4.4.4

Dial Telephones

Dial telephones, those used for normal telephone communication, are an

acceptable form of facility communications. Since telephone lines already exist in

most facilities, spending additional money to install extra systems may not be

needed. One drawback to standard telephone systems is that they are normally

point-to-point systems and, if an emergency announcement is needed to be made,

the sender may get a busy signal. Alternate emergency communication devices

should be used to preclude this situation.

4.5

Emergency Communication Systems

The facility emergency communication system should ensure that all personnel can

be promptly alerted to facility emergencies. The public address system should

normally be used to make emergency announcements. Alternate methods, such as

flashing lights, personal pagers, and individuals dedicated to notifying in person

should be used to alert personnel in high-noise areas. The emergency

communications system should also allow personnel from any point in the facility to

make emergency communications to the control area. Designated facility telephone

numbers should be established to report concerns or problems. Numbers should

be easy to remember, such as:

111

(Security problem)

222

333

(Fire, personnel injury, abnormal or emergency operational condition.

Channel 3 on the public address system, while normally used for

operations, may also be used for emergency communications.)

Direct telephone communication lines should be provided between the control area

and the emergency response facilities to improve emergency response to

accidents. These communication links should only be used during a declared

emergency event, during authorized testing, or when authorized by the shift

supervisor. Specific guidance for the use of these communication links should be in

the site emergency plan and implementing procedures.

4.6

Testing Communication Systems

Policies and procedures should address testing of communication systems. At a

minimum, emergency communication systems should be tested periodically to

ensure that they are operable. Although, it is advisable to periodically test all

communication systems. Testing periodicity for certain emergency communication