IAHSS releases new industry guideline for the use of duress and panic alarms

The International Association for Healthcare Security & Safety (IAHSS) announces the release of a new industry guideline titled “Duress and Panic Alarms and Response” under the category of “Systems”. The guideline was developed by the IAHSS Council on Guidelines. 

Dave Brown, Chair of the IAHSS Council on Guidelines, noted, “Modern technology, such as  the use a panic and duress alarm systems, can enhance site safety on any size campus. The new Duress and Panic Alarm Guideline can assist in guiding security programs in the  appropriate use of this technology.” The guideline opens with the statement that “Duress and panic alarm systems may be used as an additional layer of protection within the healthcare environment. Implementation of duress and panic alarm systems should have a defined purpose with consideration for the location, activation, response, system maintenance and testing.” 

The IAHSS Council on Guidelines is comprised of volunteer IAHSS members who are seasoned healthcare security professionals and leaders. Each year the Council on Guidelines develops new industry guidelines and reviews existing guidelines on a three-year cycle. All IAHSS guidelines are available electronically to IAHSS members via the IAHSS website. The new guideline can be accessed by the public for a limited time at www.iahss.org/guidelines.