Disabled Refuge Alarms

At APS, our commitment to safety and accessibility drives us to provide state-of-the-art disabled refuge systems tailored to the needs of modern buildings. In an emergency, clear communication and safe refuge are paramount, especially for those who may require assistance. Our systems are designed not only to meet but to exceed industry standards, ensuring that everyone in your building has access to the vital communication tools needed during an evacuation.

 

What Are Disabled Refuge Systems?

Disabled refuge systems are specialised communication networks that form a crucial part of any comprehensive fire alarm and emergency voice communication system. These systems provide designated refuge areas where individuals who cannot use stairs—such as those with physical disabilities, the elderly, or pregnant women—can wait safely during an emergency until help arrives. Through these systems, communication is established between the refuge areas and a central control panel, allowing for real-time updates and coordinated emergency responses.

Core Components of APS Disabled Refuge Systems
  1. Refuge Areas and Disabled Refuge Outstations:
    • Refuge areas are safe spaces within a building where individuals can wait during an emergency. They are strategically located to ensure maximum protection and accessibility.
    • Each refuge area is equipped with disabled refuge outstations, also known as remotes or outstations. These are typically wall-mounted units that enable hands-free, two-way communication between the refuge area and the central control room. At APS, our outstations are designed for simplicity and reliability, ensuring that users can operate them with ease during stressful situations.
  2. Emergency Voice Communication (EVC) System:
    • The heart of any disabled refuge system is the Emergency Voice Communication (EVC) system. This network facilitates communication between disabled refuge outstations and a central control point, typically located in a fire control room or building management centre.
    • Our EVC systems are designed with robust, high-quality audio capabilities to ensure that communications are clear, even in noisy or chaotic environments. The control panels feature easy-to-use interfaces and are equipped with telephone-style handsets, allowing emergency operators to manage multiple lines of communication effectively.
  3. Integration with Fire Alarm Systems:
    • APS disabled refuge systems seamlessly integrate with existing fire alarm systems. This integration ensures that when the fire alarm is activated, the disabled refuge system is also automatically triggered, providing immediate communication access to those in refuge areas.
    • This integration not only enhances the overall safety of the building but also ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, such as the British Standard BS5839-9:2021, which outlines the specifications for disabled refuge systems.
The Importance of Disabled Refuge Systems

Disabled refuge systems are more than just a regulatory requirement; they are a critical component of any building’s emergency preparedness plan. The ability to communicate with individuals in refuge areas during an emergency is essential for several reasons:

  • Safety and Reassurance: Knowing that they have a direct line to emergency responders provides immense reassurance to those in refuge areas, helping to keep them calm while they wait for assistance.
  • Efficient Emergency Response: By providing real-time communication, these systems allow for better coordination between building management, emergency responders, and those in refuge areas, leading to quicker and more effective evacuations.
  • Legal Compliance: In many regions, the installation of disabled refuge systems is mandated by law. By choosing APS, you ensure that your building is not only compliant with these laws but also equipped with the highest quality safety systems available.
Advantages of Choosing APS Disabled Refuge Systems
  1. Customisable Solutions:
    • Every building is different, and so are its safety requirements. APS offers customisable disabled refuge systems that can be tailored to the specific needs of your building. Whether you need a system for a small office or a large commercial complex, we have the expertise to design and install a system that fits perfectly.
  2. Advanced Technology:
    • Our systems utilise the latest technology in emergency communication. From crystal-clear audio in our EVC systems to the durability of our refuge outstations, every component is designed to perform reliably in the most demanding situations.
  3. Ease of Use:
    • In an emergency, simplicity is key. Our systems are designed to be easy to use, even under stress. Clear instructions, intuitive interfaces, and hands-free operation ensure that users can communicate quickly and effectively without needing extensive training.
      Comprehensive Support:
      APS offers full support from the design and installation stages through to ongoing maintenance and testing. Our team of experts is always on hand to provide guidance, conduct regular system checks, and ensure that your disabled refuge system remains fully operational at all times.
  4. Enhanced Accessibility:
    • Our systems are designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their physical capabilities, have access to safe refuge and clear communication during emergencies. This commitment to accessibility aligns with the latest guidelines and best practices, ensuring that your building is inclusive and prepared for all scenarios.
Future-Proofing Your Safety Systems

As buildings and technologies evolve, so too do the standards and expectations for safety. At APS, we are committed to future-proofing your disabled refuge systems, ensuring that they are not only compliant with current standards but also adaptable to future advancements. Our systems are designed with scalability in mind, allowing for easy upgrades and expansions as your building’s needs change.

Why APS?

Choosing APS for your disabled refuge systems means choosing a partner dedicated to safety, quality, and innovation. Our expertise in the field, combined with our commitment to customer satisfaction, makes us the ideal choice for businesses looking to enhance their emergency preparedness.

In today’s world, ensuring the safety of all building occupants is a paramount concern. APS disabled refuge systems offer the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have a reliable, effective, and compliant system in place. Our commitment to quality, coupled with our deep understanding of emergency communication systems, makes us the trusted choice for businesses across various sectors. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you safeguard your building and its occupants with our cutting-edge disabled refuge systems.

Why APS?

Expert Consultation:

Our team of experts will work with you to assess your building’s specific needs and recommend the best solution for your disabled refuge system.

Professional Installation:

We provide professional installation services, ensuring that your system is set up correctly and ready to protect your occupants.

Ongoing Maintenance:

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure that your system remains functional and effective. APS offers comprehensive maintenance services to keep your system in top condition.

Speak to a Security & Fire Expert

0115 946 1510

APS can also offer a maintenance programme to regularly check that your safety system is in line with regulations and working to full capacity Whatever type of building you have, we can offer a package to suit your requirements and budget. Why not call us today to find out how we can help to protect your people.

What Our Clients Say

Our most recent testimonials:

Paul

After repeated poor advice and service from another company we asked Chris Bee to look over the panel and sensors at our Long Eaton office; this was done promptly, resulting in a sensible proposal and we ordered the work to be done. All very satisfactory... we're now talking with Chris about another little project at another office!

East Midlands Demolition

The chap that came was brill. Very helpful, jolly and knew exactly what to do. A credit to your company.

Food & Drink Forum

We had an engineer called Kevin F come to site end of Aug 2022 and right from the beginning, he was very friendly, professional. He went above and beyond to answer our questions and ensured we understood our intercom system before he left. Usually when dealing with engineers, they are on a clock and need to get to another job,... Read more

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