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Alarm systems form an essential part of the operator interfaces to large modern industrial facilities. They provide vital support to the operators by warning them of situations that need their attention and have an important role in preventing, controlling and mitigating the effects of abnormal situations. Since it was first published in 1999, EEMUA 191 has become the globally accepted and leading guide to good practice for all aspects of alarm systems. 

  • Providing clear guidance for both existing and new alarm systems

  • Written by alarm systems experts working on high hazard sites

  • Informed by real-world process safety experiences

  • Acknowledged as good practice by leading regulators

  • Aligned with international standards

  • Contributing to plant safety, efficiency and compliance

  • Globally applicable across a wide range of industry sectors

The publication, developed by users of alarm systems with input from the UK Health and Safety Executive, gives comprehensive guidance on designing, managing and procuring an effective alarm system. It is intended to help in improving existing systems and in developing new facilities during plant construction or during alarm system refurbishments. Both of the international standards for the management of alarm systems for the process industries, ISA 18.2 from the International Society of Automation and IEC 62682: 2023, are aligned with EEMUA 191.

The new Fourth Edition has been comprehensively updated and restructured to improve ease of use.  The terminology has been aligned to that used in the latest editions of the standards and the opportunity has been taken to include new material on alarm management for remote sites.  

EEMUA 191 is primarily concerned with alarm systems provided for people operating industrial processes. These include alarm systems in industries such as chemical manufacture, power generation, oil and gas extraction and refining and others. However, much of the guidance is generic and with appropriate interpretation can be applied in other sectors. For example, the guide has been used successfully as a basis for training in the rail and transport sectors, in the nuclear industry, and elsewhere.

Need an online introduction or refresher on key aspects of EEMUA 191? Then check out EEMUA's Alarm Systems e-learning certificated training course.

New to EEMUA 191? Watch this short introductory video and, if you are a registered user, check out the webinar recording on human factors. EEMUA also provides a free checklist for an alarm management philosophy document.

Additionally, EEMUA offers introductory e-learning in the areas of Control Rooms, Cyber Security and Functional Safety.

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