January 30, 2012
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Comment on ASAP/PSAP
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Ken:
There seems to some confusion in a readers response to the ASAP program. ASAP is a program spearheaded by CSAA. It represents the next generation in alarm response. The program will speed up the dispatch process once the central station has vetted the emergency signal. In addition to sending the primary dispatch details, the central station will be able to include video clips, mapping, audio recordings, or any other data that will aid in the response process.
The reader seems to be confused with the original version of HR3630, which allows electronic signals to be sent directly to PSAP. The potential here can be devastating. There is no screening of the alarm signals by a third party. In the event of a localized emergency the 911 center could quickly become overwhelmed with signals that would have otherwise been eliminated by the central stations.
While the Security industry has endeavored to reduce false dispatches and still meets resistance from some jurisdictions to responding to alarms. HR3630 has the potential to undo all the progress made over the years by alarm companies. The passed version of HR3630 has modified language that makes it somewhat more palatable to the alarm industry.
Ref: http://www.cepro.com/article/print/hr3630_passes_damage_to_alarm_industry_beyond_description/
http://www.cepro.com/article/print/new_bill_language_staves_off_alarm_industry_worries/
Mark S. Fischer
www.systemssupportspecialists.com
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Comment and question on elevator monitoring
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Ken
Another issue that arises that should be addressed in the contract is elevator monitoring services cancelled by the installer. Many times, the installation company subcontracts elevator companies (i.e. Otis Elevator) to install and program these systems. The problem is, when they cancel the service, they do not reprogram (or deprogram) the system. That means that we still receive elevator emergency calls when we're not being compensated for the service. When we receive calls like this, we immediately act on the signal (as this could pose an immediate life safety issue) and then put the system back in service and continue to bill the installation company. We also send a letter or e-mail to the dealer advising them of this.
Is there a clause in your new contract that would include an issue like this? Are there any further measures we should take to insure we are covered if there is an incident on a cancelled elevator account? Thanks,
Jeremy Kane
Acadian On Watch
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Response
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Our now available Standard Elevator Monitoring Contract has he following provision which I believe addresses your recommendation:
" SUBSCRIBER RESPONSIBLE FOR EQUIPMENT AND PAYMENTS: Subscriber shall be responsible for any loss occasioned by fire or casualty and the cost of replacing or restoring the elevator emergency communication line. Notwithstanding the condition of Subscriber's premises, communication pathways or ALARM COMPANY's impossibility of performance occasioned by condition of Subscriber's premises, or failure of communication pathways, Subscriber shall remain liable for monthly payments for the term of this agreement, and upon termination until Alarm Company is given access to terminate communication, without offset or reduction. Alarm Company has provided only a line connection from the Subscriber's elevator communication device to the Subscriber's selected communication pathway and it is Subscriber's responsibility to disconnect that communication line upon Subscriber's termination of this contract and Subscriber shall remain liable for payment until communication is disconnected. "
Our Standard Elevator Monitoring Contract deals with most issues we have identified. As new issues come to your attention the form will be updated and notice given though this forum, or, feel free to contact Eileen, our Contract Administrator, at 516 747 6700 ext 312 to check to see if you have the latest version or the Elevator Monitoring Contract or our other Standard Form Contracts.