The PA/GA (Public Address/General Alarm) System is responsible for delivering messages and alarms of general interest by means of loudspeakers and other sound devices spread throughout the vessel.

The PA/GA is an extremely important tool for the operation of a vessel, because it allows information, instructions and messages of general interest to be shared immediately with all the crew. It also contributes to safety activities and for the safeguard of human life at sea.

How it works

The PA/GA System supports the prioritized communication of public announcements, calls, emergency messages, safety notices and alarms, using a network of sound transducers strategically spread throughout the vessel. The system contains call and alarm lines that support point-to-point connections and conferencing between users, as well as a call-recording subsystem.

Due to its importance for the operation and safety of the vessel, the system consists of a main network and of a fully independent redundant network. This redundant network is totally isolated from the main network, but is sized with the same configurations and functionalities.
The main components of the PA/GA System are:

• Page-Party Stations – sites where messages are generated
• High performing microphones, with the capability of isolating undesirable background environment noise
• Sound transducers
• Emergency signaling lamps
• Acoustic cabins for public announcements, with PTT (push to talk) like telephone sets, buzzers and emergency signaling lamps
• Signal distribution infrastructure: cabling,  terminal blocks and intercom distribution boxes

Scope of a Standard Project

C.FOSTER supplies and installs PA/GA systems in ships and platforms of varying sizes, meeting the highest quality standards required for this type of installation.

C.FOSTER relys on a highly skilled and trained technical team, composed of professionals with extensive experience with maritime and offshore customers, most of whom have been trained abroad at our partner equipment and service vendors’ facilities.

Equipment and materials are supplied according to international norms and standards, including recommendations from PETROBRAS, ANATEL, IMO/SOLAS, Unit Classification Society, AIS, SSAS, ABS, DBV and others.

All materials and accessories are specified and assembled considering the hostile environmental characteristics of the offshore production environment. All installed systems are rigorously tested, with test instruments that are regularly calibrated according to applicable norms.

Project and installation activities typically include:

• System conception according to the needs of each customer
• Engineering design including plans and descriptive drawings
• Supply and delivery logistics according to the project schedule
• On board Installation and commissioning
• “As built” documentation, including updated plans and drawings
• Training programs for customer personnel