Signet, a specialist UK manufacturer based in the North East of England, is well regarded for its life-safety audio solutions. Alongside its extensive range of induction loop systems for assistive hearing, the company designs and manufactures Emergency Voice Communication (EVC) systems that play a vital role in fire safety and building evacuation strategies.
Current Building Regulations require non-domestic buildings with more than one storey to provide refuge areas — safe locations where people who cannot easily use stairs or evacuation lifts can wait for assistance. An Emergency Voice Communication system enables reliable two-way speech between these refuge points and a permanently manned control position, ensuring clear communication during an emergency.
The Signet range at Commercial Audio Solutions includes disabled refuge outstations available in both flush and surface-mounted versions. These hands-free call points automatically connect when activated, allowing users to speak directly with building management or emergency responders. Fire telephone outstations, typically finished in red and designed for use by trained personnel, form part of formal fire safety procedures on larger sites.
Master control units manage multiple lines, offering clear monitoring and communication with all connected outstations. Systems incorporate battery backup to maintain operation during mains failure, and installations must comply with BS 5839-9 for design, commissioning and maintenance.
Typical applications include multi-storey offices, hotels, hospitals, educational buildings, shopping centres, residential blocks and any public or commercial premises where accessible means of escape are required. Correctly specified Emergency Voice Communication systems help building owners meet their legal responsibilities while providing reassurance to occupants who may need assistance in an emergency.
At Commercial Audio Solutions we work closely with Signet to provide expert guidance and advice on the right equipment for compliant, reliable installations. Explore our Signet Emergency Voice Communication range today for professional life-safety solutions designed and manufactured in the UK.
Disabled Refuge Systems are required in order to comply with various fire safety and escape precautions stated in The Building Regulations Approved Document B (fire safety) volume 2, section 3 and their installation, commisioning and maintenance is governed by BS 5839 Part 9.
As part of a ‘life safety’ system, the correct design and maintenance of a Disabled Refuge System is essential. If you need any advice, please get in touch.
