We are redefining what the EPICS audible alarm system, reducing it to only include alarms which are not accessible via other data channels and which need URGENT operator/staff attention. To this end I have removed the CDS and PSL alarms from the operator alarm station. This leaves the VACUUM, FMCS, DUST and SOFTWARE_WATCHDOG alarms in place. I had re-worked the Software Watchdog alarms last week to remove duplicate and spurious reporting of these alarms.

Coupled with this is the requirement that urgent alarms also send text messages to cell phones to cover times when the operator is not on duty.

Daniel would like non-urgent alarms to be reported by a new system which filters the data before presenting it to the operator. Currently alarm status is available on MEDM screens which the operator checks regularly.