Disabled Refuge Systems
Professional Disabled Refuge System Install
Providing vital communication and safe waiting areas during an emergency evacuation.
In the event of a fire or severe emergency, ensuring the safe evacuation of everyone in your building is both a legal requirement and a moral obligation. For individuals with restricted mobility who cannot safely use stairwells, designated safe zones equipped with robust two-way communication are essential. UK Fire & Security delivers fully compliant Emergency Voice Communication (EVC) solutions that connect vulnerable occupants directly with building management or the fire brigade.
Ranging from a single intercom in a small retail unit to complex, networked multi-panel setups across high-rise office blocks, our engineering team ensures your premises meet all current building and equality regulations. We focus on clear audio, resilient hardware, and reliable battery backups so the technology works flawlessly when lives depend on it.
Why choose UKFS for your disabled refuge system?
Navigating the strict regulations surrounding building accessibility and fire safety can be daunting for any facilities manager or property owner. Partnering with a dedicated life-safety specialist means you receive actionable, honest advice alongside top-tier technical implementation. Our engineers possess a deep understanding of British Standards, ensuring your EVC networks are legally sound, perfectly positioned, and highly dependable.
Because our focus combines national capability with a localized service mindset, you benefit from rapid response times, highly personalized system design, and meticulous ongoing maintenance. We don’t just fit the hardware; we ensure your entire evacuation strategy is supported by faultless, life-saving communication technology.
BS 5839-9 compliant
We meticulously design every installation to meet stringent British Standards, keeping your property fully compliant and ensuring the highest level of safety for occupants.
two-way audio
High-quality microphones and speakers allow distressed individuals to converse clearly with rescue teams, providing reassurance and preventing panic during a crisis.
Scalable networks
Whether you manage a boutique hotel or a sprawling corporate campus, our communication setups adapt effortlessly to the specific size and complexity of your architecture.
Expert commissioning
With our specialists based in the Midlands and spread across the UK, you are guaranteed exceptional service, prompt call-outs, and thorough preventative maintenance.
Our Disabled Refuge System install process
A streamlined approach to securing your doors and barriers from start to finish.
Site
Assessment
We evaluate your building’s escape routes and safe zones to map out the exact requirements for communication points.
Custom System Design
Our team specifies the right master stations and remote panels to guarantee flawless connectivity and full compliance.
Seamless Installation
Skilled technicians fit the hardware cleanly, keeping disruption to your daily operations to an absolute minimum.
Rigorous Commissioning
Every audio channel and battery backup is extensively tested to ensure crystal-clear communication in an emergency.
Training & Maintenance
We show your team how to operate the master panel and provide ongoing servicing to ensure permanent reliability.
Disabled Refuge Systems Install FAQs
Integrating an Emergency Voice Communication (EVC) network into your building’s fire strategy naturally brings up technical and legal questions.
To help you navigate the requirements for inclusive evacuation, we’ve compiled answers to the most common queries regarding disabled refuge systems.
What is a disabled refuge system?
A disabled refuge system is a two-way voice communication network designed to assist in the safe evacuation of people with mobility issues. It allows individuals waiting in a designated, fire-protected “refuge area” to speak directly with building management or emergency services at a central control panel, letting them know they need physical assistance to escape the building.
Is a disabled refuge system a legal requirement?
Yes, in many commercial and public buildings. Under the Building Regulations (specifically Approved Document B) and the Equality Act 2010, multi-story non-domestic premises must provide a safe means of escape for all occupants. If someone cannot easily use the stairs, a refuge area with a compliant BS 5839-9 communication system must be provided to ensure they aren’t left behind.
Where should refuge outstations be located?
Refuge outstations (the intercom panels) are typically located in designated safe areas, usually within fire-protected stairwells or protected lobbies. These zones are structurally designed to resist fire and smoke for a specified period, keeping occupants safe while they wait for evacuation assistance from trained staff or the fire brigade.
How often should EVC and disabled refuge systems be tested?
Just like your fire alarms, disabled refuge systems must be regularly maintained to remain legally compliant. You should carry out a routine operational test (a simple call check from an outstation to the master panel) on a monthly basis. Additionally, a competent fire safety engineer must conduct a comprehensive inspection and service at least twice a year to check batteries, wiring integrity, and audio clarity.
Systems & Services We Offer
Whether you need a new system, routine testing or ongoing maintenance, UKFS can support every stage.
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Our our head offices is based in Coleshill with fully qualified, experienced engineers spread throughout the UK allowing UK Fire & Security to operate nationwide.
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