Five Diamond Certified

This Certification testifies that 100% of the company’s central station operators have achieved proficiency and certification by passing the TMA Central Station On-Line Operator Training Course. These courses cover virtually all phases of central station communications with customers, law enforcement, fire and emergency services communications centers. This critical area of communications is the life-saving link between the residential or business properties and the law enforcement, fire and emergency services in local areas.

In order to achieve the Five Diamond Certification, each and every operator must have not only passed the course, but demonstrated:

• Proficiency in alarm verification, which helps reduce false alarms;
• Proficiency in communications with Public Service Answering Points, such as the Emergency 911 centers;
• Knowledge of electronic communications equipment, including radio;
• An understanding of the codes and standards of such organizations as Underwriters Laboratories, Factory Mutual, the National Fire Protection Association and others; and
• Proficiency in the area of emergency preparedness under a wide scenario of possibilities.

In addition, Five Diamond companies have demonstrated an exceptionally high degree of responsibility to their local community and their customers through the investment of time, money and commitment to 100% quality operator training.

There are approximately 2,700 central stations in the United States, which communicate and interact with the law enforcement, fire and emergency services agencies. Of this group, fewer than two hundred central stations have achieved Five Diamond Certified status.

Furthermore, Five Diamond central stations must have state-of-the-art communications and monitoring equipment, and they must have strong working relationships with public safety organizations in their area. “It’s a rigorous process, and you have to show that you measure up every year,” said Maria Moretti, American Alarm’s Director of the Command Center and Quality Assurance. “It’s a strict program, but that’s how it should be. When you’re helping to electronically protect people’s lives and property, you have to be demanding.”

The Monitoring Association (TMA) is an internationally-recognized non-profit trade association that represents professional monitoring companies that are listed by a TMA-approved Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory, such as FM Global, Intertek/ETL or UL. TMA is legally entitled to represent its members before Congress and regulatory agencies on the local, state and federal levels, and other authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) over the industry. Since its incorporation in 1950, TMA has served its members’ interests through education, online training, meetings and conventions, certification, insurance, and industry standards.