Facilities Services Radio Usage

This article outlines the important guidelines and protocols for clear and consistent radio communication. Adhering to these standards and procedures will greatly benefit Facilities Services and the university. Understanding the functioning of the radio, avoiding discrepancies during radio communication, and practicing proper radio protocol will enhance radio competency, minimize miscommunications, reduce risks, and maximize efficiency while utilizing UO radio network to support Facilities Services activities.

 Details

Radio key features for Kenwood NX-320 - (see diagram below)

1. Power/volume knob

2. LED indicator light

   1. solid green - receiving

   2. solid red - transmitting

   3. flashing red - low battery

3. Password confirm and switch-channel button (quickly returns user to their shop’s assigned channel, programmed by the Wireless Systems Specialist)

4. Push-to-talk button (PTT)

5. Channel selector knob

6. Return-to-channel-1 button (from switch channel)

7. Change groups (scroll with B and C buttons to scan and select)

8. Button lock

Open

Radio key features for Kenwood NX-3320 - (see diagram below)

1. Power/volume knob                                  

2. LED indicator light                                     

   1. solid green – receiving

   2. solid red – transmitting

   3. flashing red and green – low battery  

3. Password confirm button                         

4. Push-to-talk button (PTT)

5. Channel selector knob

6. Switch channel button

7. Return-to-channel-1 button (from switch channel)

8. Change groups (scroll with arrows to scan and select) 

9. Button lock

10. Back light button

Open

 General Radio Operation

1. Turn power/volume knob clockwise until feeling a click

2. Unlock radio by entering passcode and pushing passcode confirm button. See supervisor if unsure of passcode

3. Continue turning power/volume knob until desired volume level is met

4. Turn channel selection knob to channel 1 used for calling out general traffic and emergency response.

   1. If conversations persist, switch to appropriate channel as communicated by one of the users in conversation

5. Facilities Channel listings (programmed by the Wireless Systems Specialist, so team members can switch to their shop’s assigned channel by pushing a single button; good for easy communication between crew members):

 Making a Call

1. Before speaking, make sure there is no radio traffic

2. When using the radio, speak in a normal voice 2-4” away from face of radio

3. Firmly depress the PTT button, state your call sign or name and the call sign or name of whom you want to contact. Release the button (Example: “40 to 41” or “Bob” to “Bill” or “Bob” to “Work to Control Center”). The LED on the top of the radio will be solid red when the PTT button is pushed

4. Wait for a response. If the caller does not receive one, repeat the transmission

   1. if no contact say “no contact Bob clear”

5. Once the called individual responds, either use Channel 1 for a quick transmission, or ask them to change to channel. The LED on the top of the radio will be solid green when the caller receives traffic

 Responding to a Call

1. When you hear your call sign or name, firmly press the PTT button

2. Respond by stating your call sign or name (Example: this is 41 go ahead for 41” or this is Bill go ahead for Bill”

 Key Phrases

• Over – I’ve finished speaking

• Say again – Please repeat your last message

• Stand by – I acknowledge the transmission but can’t respond right now

• Go ahead – I can respond, go ahead with your message

• Roger – Message received and understood

• Affirmative/Negative – Yes/No

• Out/clear – Conversation finished, channel clear for other users

 Radio Etiquette

1. Keep your radio charged

2. Have your radio on during entire shift

3. Do not talk over people

4. Keep traffic as brief as possible (yet thorough and accurate) switch when necessary

5. Be mindful to not inadvertently press the PTT button to create a “hot mic”

   1. this can happen by sitting on your radio or pressing it up against your seatbelt

 Radio Care

Radios are built to be used in rough and tumble environments but they can’t take endless punishment. Be mindful and handle them with care. Some of the tips below may help:

1. Everyday use

   1. don’t grab by the antenna

   2. only use accessories designed for the radio. Mixing and matching can lead to damage and impact reliability

   3. keep out of extreme temperatures

   4. keep dry and away from solvents or moisture

      1. if submerged, immediately remove battery and return radio to the Work Control Center

2. Cleaning your radio

   1. Don’t use any industrial chemicals or spray

3. Charging your battery

   1. Don’t overcharge it can diminish battery life, remove from charge once it reaches 100%

4. Storing your radio

   1. Turn off when stored

   2. Remove batteries when not in use for long periods of time

 Radio Communications with Security Operations Center (SOC)

On Channel 1

1. Radio out for “Campus 1” or “Dispatch”

2. Say “I have an emergency” (dispatch is monitoring many systems and radios and this will grab their attention)

3. Provide “location first” location is the most important details can follow

4. Repeat until they respond and prompt you for additional information

 Examples of inappropriate radio use

Non-work-related radio use such as:

1. Casual conversations

2. Inappropriate remarks

3. Jokes

4. Outbursts

5. Profanity

6. Music

7. Singing