The Need: Protecting a Strategic Rail Hub
The SNCF (French National Railway Company) required a reliable and high-performance alert system to protect the Artix rail yard (Southwest France). This site is a critical transit point for trains transporting hazardous materials (Hazmat).
The existing motor driven siren system was aging and no longer met modern safety requirements. It was essential to broadcast two distinct types of audible alerts:
- National Alert Signal: For hazardous material spills or incidents related to the nearby Lacq Seveso-rated industrial site.
- Fire Alarm Signal (NF S32-001): Specifically for fire emergencies on-site.
The Solution: SmartVOX® Wireless Voice Alarms
Power and Customization
To address these challenges, SNCF selected SmartVOX® voice sounders. These units are fully customizable, capable of broadcasting both standardized tones and clear voice messages. With an adjustable output of up to 126 dB at 1m, they ensure optimal coverage even in high-noise environments, such as during train passage.
Seamless Coverage via LoRa Technology
To cover the 1.5 km stretch along the tracks, 16 SmartVOX® units were deployed. Utilizing wireless LoRa technology, the alarms communicate without the need for complex cabling, forming a secure mesh network where each device acts as a repeater.
Built to be robust and weatherproof (IP66), these units are perfectly suited for the harsh conditions of outdoor railway environments.
The Result: A Modern and Reliable Safety Network
Following rigorous on-site testing, the SNCF validated the SmartVOX® solution for its efficiency, acoustic power, and ease of installation.
The Artix rail yard is now equipped with a modern, scalable safety system that guarantees the protection of staff and the surrounding environment against industrial and fire risks.
