-Hedmarken Fire Department IKS has introduced new communications equipment from Northcom as an important HSE measure to ensure safer working conditions and better communication.
Northcom protects those who protect us
When a fire alarm goes off, every second counts. In the heat of the moment, rescue workers must make quick decisions and keep a cool head. Good communication is essential, and one of our most important senses therefore plays a key role. Yet hearing is rarely the first thing that comes to mind when we talk about emergency preparedness.
Did you know that
Sound is measured in decibels, and the scale is logarithmic. This means that a small increase in the number can represent a significant increase in noise level.
Hearing damage often occurs gradually. Many people do not notice that their hearing has deteriorated until the damage has already occurred.
Noise can cause damage even if it does not seem extremely loud. The subjective experience does not always correspond to the actual risk.
Firefighting and rescue operations rarely take place in silence. Sirens, engines, and heavy equipment mean that crews work in a level of noise that few other professions encounter. At the same time, sound is absolutely crucial for coordination and safety, because they must be able to understand each other and their surroundings during operations. The challenge is that the same noise, over time, can lead to stress injuries and hearing loss. So how can hearing be protected without compromising communication?
Several fire departments have therefore chosen a communication system supplied by Northcom, which combines active hearing protection with built-in communication. Harmful noise is attenuated, while voices and important messages come through clearly. This allows crews to protect their hearing while maintaining situational awareness and communication during operations.
-Here the communication system from Northcom is being tested at the fire station in Tønsberg.
About Northcom
Leading Nordic provider of critical communication products and services
Develops, delivers, and maintains products and infrastructure that ensure reliable and secure communications for both the public and private sectors
Today, the system is used in 50 fire departments across Norway, and experiences from north to south point to the same conclusion: When the right sounds get through, communication improves. Messages are delivered faster, misunderstandings are reduced, and operations become safer in situations where there is little room for error. It also provides greater peace of mind for everyone who depends on emergency response systems functioning properly.
This is also in line with Aars’ ownership vision. For us, ownership and value creation are about supporting companies that matter to society. When we invest in companies like Northcom, we therefore expect that what they develop will benefit more people, and not just look good on the bottom line. Taking care of the hearing of those who are first on the scene is proof of that.
Read more about how Northcom works with communication solutions here.