A little help with numbers

[Medic129]

I know that there is a magic number out there somewhere that says over this certain number of 911 calls recieved by a PSAP, they must have two dispatchers on duty at all times. I was wondering what that number is and if there is a law or some sort of regulation that spells it out.

Thanks.

[MrJim911]

I'm aware of no such law, but I'll look into it.

[fireteddy]

sorry don't know of a specific law, but due to a coroner's inquest in our area, one of the ambulance services had to go to 2 per shift at all times (doing 2500 or more runs per year). also, for safety reasons (i.e. if something happens to you), and so that you can use the bathroom, logic dictates that there must be at least 2 on per shift.

teddy 49
stewart flemming, communications division
toronto fire department
toronto, ontario, canada

[Medic129]

That's what I'm talking about. I was thinking 3000 911 calls received and you had to have 2 dispatchers at all times. Maybe it's not a law, just good practice, I don't know.

Thanks.

If you find anything else out, let me know.

[911WACKER]

In Pennsylvania any center that handles 911 calls has to have 2 dispatchers per shift, I'm not aware of any exceptions to this rule. I don't think that I would want to work alone anyway, overall number's don't let you see that multiple calls are recieved for the same incident at the same time.

[MrJim911]

Can you post a site that has that PA law? Or is it a law?

[Rescue21D]

If you can find the NFPA standard for Communications, I believe it is in there. Hope this helps. Can't remember the standard number off the top of my head, sorry.