DA Form 4930: Alarm/Intrusion Detection Record Guide – DA Form 4930, officially titled ALARM/INTRUSION DETECTION RECORD, is a critical U.S. Army document used to log alarms and activities related to Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) protecting arms, ammunition, explosives (AA&E), and other sensitive resources.
This form supports compliance with AR 190-11 (Physical Security of Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives) and helps maintain security readiness, track system reliability, and document responses to alarms.
Download the official DA Form 4930 PDF here: https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/pdf/DA%20FORM%204930.pdf
What Is DA Form 4930 Used For?
DA Form 4930 records all alarms and tests from intrusion detection devices at posts, camps, and stations. It tracks:
- Actual alarms
- Nuisance alarms
- False alarms
- System tests
Units use it to identify and correct IDS reliability issues, document weather impacts, actions taken, and explanations for nuisance/false activations.
It is mandatory for facilities with IDS protecting AA&E and other sensitive items. A computer-generated log can substitute if it captures all required data.
Key Requirements from AR 190-11 and Local Regulations
AR 190-11 and installation supplements (e.g., JBLM Reg 190-11, FLW Reg 190-11) require:
- Monthly operational testing of IDS with the monitoring station
- Recording all tests and alarms on DA Form 4930
- Retaining records for at least 12 months
- Prompt reporting and resolution of malfunctions
Units must inspect visible components for damage or tampering during tests.
How to Fill Out DA Form 4930 Step by Step?
Fill the form legibly. Use the reverse side or attachments for additional space.
- Location of Alarm (Column a): Enter the specific building, room, or site (e.g., “Building 1234 Arms Room”).
- Kind of Alarm (Column b): Use codes — 1 = ACTUAL, 2 = NUISANCE, 3 = FALSE, 4 = TEST.
- Date (Column c) and Time Reported (Column d): Record when the alarm was received.
- Time Cleared (Column e): Note when the alarm was resolved or reset.
- Weather Conditions (Column f): Document conditions that might affect the system (e.g., heavy rain, high winds).
- Action Taken (Column g): Detail the response (e.g., “Responded to site, conducted sweep, reset system”).
- Explanation of Nuisance/False Alarm (Column h): Explain causes (e.g., “Animal activity,” “Sensor malfunction,” “Authorized entry without proper code”).
- Unit of Individual Receiving Alarm (Column i): Record the unit and person who handled the alarm.
Include the installation/activity header. Ensure authorized personnel with proper PINs or access perform and log tests.
Best Practices for IDS Testing and Record Keeping
- Conduct monthly tests as required by your installation.
- Coordinate with the central monitoring station before testing.
- Test doors, windows, motion sensors, and other components systematically.
- Log duress features only as authorized (often restricted to maintenance personnel).
- Report recurring issues immediately for repair.
- Maintain organized files for 12+ months for inspections.
Proper documentation demonstrates due diligence in physical security and helps reduce false alarms, improving overall response efficiency.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting with DA Form 4930
Frequent nuisance or false alarms often stem from:
- Weather (wind, rain, temperature fluctuations)
- Wildlife or environmental factors
- Improper arming/disarming
- Sensor misalignment or maintenance needs
Use Column h consistently to track patterns and justify maintenance requests. Supervisors should review logs regularly.
Why Accurate DA Form 4930 Records Matter?
Reliable records:
- Support compliance during physical security inspections
- Help prevent theft or compromise of AA&E
- Provide audit trails for investigations
- Improve system performance over time
Failure to maintain proper logs can result in inspection failures or security vulnerabilities.
Download DA Form 4930: Official PDF from Army Publishing Directorate
For the latest guidance, consult your unit’s physical security officer, Directorate of Emergency Services, or current version of AR 190-11. Local regulations may have additional requirements.
This article is for informational purposes and does not replace official Army doctrine or regulations.