scope:

(1) Add new term and definition as follows: Audio paused State of limited duration in which the alarm system or part of the alarm system does not generate an auditory alarm signal NOTE This is sometimes referred to as silencing. (2) Delete current 3.47 Silencing Temporary stopping of an auditory alarm signal by manual action NOTE This is also referred to as audio pausing. (3) Revise 6.3.2.3 as follows: 6.3.2.3 If an auditory alarm signal can be audio paused by the operator, the audio pausing shall not prevent the auditory signal from being activated by a new alarm condition. (4) Revise 6.3.2.4 as follows: 6.3.2.4* If an emergency auditory alarm signal can be audio paused by the operator, the period of audio pausing shall not exceed 15 minutes. (5) Revise H.6.3.2.4 as follows: The maximum audo pausing period of 15 minutes Is appropriate because equipment in critical areas such as patient monitors, life-support intensive care ventilators and anaesthetic workstations are themselves recycling high priority alarms at shorter intervals.