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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about ShakeAlarm®, ShakeAlarm® Lite, system capabilities, installation, and support.
ShakeAlarm®
What's the difference between ShakeAlarm® and ShakeAlarm® Lite?
ShakeAlarm® includes on-site seismic sensors and can function independently of external networks. ShakeAlarm® Lite is a smaller, more affordable option that connects to the USGS ShakeAlert® network and is ideal for schools, residential buildings, and small-to-mid-size facilities.
How does ShakeAlarm® detect an earthquake before it happens?
ShakeAlarm® detects the initial P-waves of an earthquake — fast-moving seismic waves that arrive before the destructive S-waves. This allows the system to act seconds in advance, issuing alerts and activating safety protocols before shaking begins.
Is ShakeAlarm® approved or recognized by regulatory bodies?
ShakeAlarm® operates using the USGS ShakeAlert® network and aligns with regional seismic safety regulations. Weir-Jones can provide documentation to support compliance with municipal, provincial, or federal safety codes.
How much warning time does ShakeAlarm® provide?
Warning time depends on your distance from the earthquake’s epicenter. ShakeAlarm® can provide anywhere from a few seconds to over a minute of advance notice — critical time for initiating emergency protocols.
Where can ShakeAlarm® be installed?
ShakeAlarm® is installed in schools, government buildings, water treatment facilities, transit systems, industrial plants, and residential complexes — any environment where proactive seismic protection is needed.
Does ShakeAlarm® work during power outages or internet disruptions?
Yes. ShakeAlarm® is designed for resiliency. It includes backup power and does not require internet connectivity, ensuring operation even during widespread infrastructure failure.
Is ShakeAlarm® compatible with mobile alerts?
Yes. Through the ShakeAlarm® mobile app, real-time alerts can be delivered to users offsite, adding an extra layer of safety and communication.
Can ShakeAlarm® trigger automatic safety actions?
Yes. ShakeAlarm® is designed for resiliency. It includes backup power and does not require internet connectivity, ensuring operation even during widespread infrastructure failure.
How is ShakeAlarm® maintained?
Weir-Jones offers full installation, testing, and optional long-term maintenance packages. The system is built to run with minimal upkeep and includes remote diagnostics for continued reliability.
What is the system's lifespan?
ShakeAlarm® systems are built for long-term resilience and are rated for over 25 years of continuous operation — even in demanding environments.
Can ShakeAlarm® be retrofitted into existing buildings?
Yes. ShakeAlarm® can be seamlessly integrated into most building systems. Our engineering team collaborates with your facility managers to retrofit the solution without requiring major infrastructure changes.
Does ShakeAlarm® require an internet connection?
No. The full ShakeAlarm® system uses local sensors and does not rely on internet access. ShakeAlarm® Lite, however, uses the internet to receive alerts from the USGS ShakeAlert® network.
ShakeAlarm® Lite
What types of buildings is ShakeAlarm® Lite best suited for?
It’s ideal for schools, municipal buildings, small businesses, utility sites, and residential complexes — anywhere that doesn’t require localized sensor networks but still needs fast, actionable alerts.
Does ShakeAlarm® Lite work without on-site seismic sensors?
Yes. Unlike the full ShakeAlarm® system, the Lite version does not use on-site sensors. It relies entirely on live data from the ShakeAlert® network, simplifying setup and maintenance.
How is ShakeAlarm® Lite installed?
Installation is quick and minimally invasive. The system connects to building PA systems, alert beacons, or control relays and is often operational within a day.
Can ShakeAlarm® Lite trigger automated building responses?
Warning time depends on your distance from the earthquake’s epicenter. ShakeAlarm® can provide anywhere from a few seconds to over a minute of advance notice — critical time for initiating emergency protocols.
Is ShakeAlarm® Lite cloud-based or locally hosted?
It relies on internet connectivity to access the ShakeAlert® feed but can execute its protocols locally once a warning is received.
Is ShakeAlarm® Lite compatible with mobile apps?
Yes. Alerts can be pushed to the ShakeAlarm® mobile app, allowing users (e.g. staff or administrators) to receive warnings even if they’re not at the building.
Can ShakeAlarm® Lite be upgraded to the full ShakeAlarm® system later?
Yes. In many cases, the Lite system can serve as a foundation, with upgrades to sensor-based ShakeAlarm® systems available depending on infrastructure.