A proposal to develop a new British Standard for emergency audio communication systems is currently under consideration by BSI committee EPL/100, which covers audio systems for emergency communication. The Fire Industry Association has confirmed it has been informed of the proposal and is drawing it to the attention of its membership.
The proposed document would take the form of a British Code of Practice and would address the use of sound systems for emergency purposes in premises where a formal communication plan is required. According to BSI, the intention is to provide clearer and more coherent guidance in an area where existing advice is currently limited or fragmented.
Scenario Scope
The scope of the proposed standard would include emergency sound systems used under the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly referred to as Martyn’s Law. This would cover communication requirements for scenarios such as lockdown and evacuation. It would also apply to fire emergencies, particularly in high rise residential buildings, where audio communication systems operate independently of the fire detection and alarm system.
This aspect is seen as especially significant in the post Grenfell regulatory environment, where the ability to deliver clear, timely and evolving instructions to occupants during an incident is regarded as critical to life safety.
BSI has indicated that the proposed Code of Practice would focus on communication outcomes rather than prescriptive technical solutions. Areas expected to be covered include planning and system design, audibility and intelligibility of messages, and the testing, management and ongoing operation of emergency audio systems. The standard is intended to sit alongside existing fire, security and product standards, complementing them rather than duplicating existing requirements.
Industry Feedback
The FIA is inviting its members to review the proposal and consider its potential impact on duty holders, system designers, operators, residents and enforcing authorities. BSI is currently seeking industry feedback on the need for the standard, its proposed scope and the value it could deliver in practice.
The consultation on the proposal is open until 19 February. FIA members wishing to contribute are encouraged to submit their comments directly to BSI via the Standards Development Portal, noting that registration may be required.
