It is well acknowledged in the literature that the set of audible alarms supporting a global standard for medical devices (IEC 60601-1-8) is in need of updating. Developments in sound design, computer technology and sound reproduction now make it possible to develop a wider range of possible alarm sounds producing both new challenges and opportunities. In this symposium we discuss and present progress in developing both new audible alarms for IEC 60601-1-8 and a framework for evaluation, covering the processes of design, usability in middleware, testing sounds in realistic work environment, and masking.
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