Evacuation Alert System
Evacuation Alert System Installation
We are BAFE SP207 accredited
We are incredibly proud of our substantial list of industry accreditations, as well as being just one of a very small group of companies to be BAFE SP207 accredited. Supporting British standard 8629, “the BAFE SP207 scheme covers “demonstrating quality evidence of competency for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of evacuation alert systems”.
Regulations On Evacuation Systems
The BS 8629:2019 is a British standard providing “guidance on how to install a communication system that advises residents of flats to evacuate”. It offers recommendations for the design, installation and maintenance of evacuation alert systems, for use by fire and rescue services in residential buildings.
In 2022, the recommendations within BS 8629 were incorporated into the Building Regulations Act 2010 by amendment to Approved Document B. They are consequently a legal requirement under Part B of UK Building Regulations.
It states: “In blocks of flats (purpose group 1(a)) with a top storey over 18m above ground level an evacuation alert system should be provided in accordance with BS 8629.”
Origins of BS 8629:2019
On 24 June 2017, 72 people tragically lost their lives following a fire at Grenfell Tower in London. The fire was started by a malfunctioning fridge freezer, and quickly spread up the building’s exterior.
The subsequent review and lessons learned from this event have prompted several changes to how high-rise residential buildings should be constructed and managed, including the publication of BS 8629:2019, which is the British standard mapping out strict requirements for evacuation alert systems (EAS) to be utilised by Fire and Rescue Services (FRS) during times of emergency.
In conjunction with the introduction of BS 8629, accreditation has been established to ensure that only approved contractors can legally carry out the installation and maintenance of an EAS. Gemini AMPM is one of a limited number of contractors to hold this BAFE SP207 accreditation.
How Does An Evacuation Alert System Work?
In the UK, Evacuation Alert Systems (EAS) are becoming more common in residential blocks as a safety measure to ensure that occupants can be safely evacuated in case of a fire or other emergency. They are also now mandatory in buildings over 18 metres high. An EAS is a stand alone system that provides audible and/or visual alarms to alert residents to evacuate the building.
An evacuation alert system consists of a control panel, often placed in an easily accessible area on the ground floor of a building, which can activated to communicate with alarm sounders and/or visual alarm devices (VADs) in each flat. The control panel is specifically described as “Evacuation Alert Control and Indicating Equipment” (EACIE). Only the Fire and Rescue Services have access to this pannel. The EACIE is contained within a tamper-proof box, accessed with a dedicated key. The alarms are separate and clearly distinguishable from other fire and emergency systems within the building.
Systems can be hard-wired or wireless and can be installed during building construction or retrofitted to existing structures.
What Is The Difference Between A Fire Alarm System And An Evacuation Alert System?
Whilst a fire alarm system will detect a fire (often being triggered by either heat or smoke) and subsequently warn occupants, an evacuation alert system is used by the fire and rescue services only, to effectively control an evacuation.
The EAS will be used to alert and evacuate residents from a portion of the building – such as an individual apartment, a floor, or an entire building. The EAS can be used to prioritise the evacuation of certain areas safely, especially when a “stay put” policy is in place. The “stay put” policy is a strategy used in multiple-occupancy flats, which is designed to keep residents safe if they are based in a part of the building that isn’t directly impacted by the fire.
Why Choose Gemini
01
Experience
Our specialist team is highly experienced at designing and installing industry-leading evacuation alert systems across multiple environments. We have over 30 years industry experience and considerable expertise delivering tailored alarm solutions in both occupied and unoccupied residential buildings within housing stock, with a strong focus on minimising disruption and protecting the fabric of the building - providing peace of mind and value for money.
02
Specialist Engineers
Gemini AMPM has a team of highly skilled engineers who are experts in designing, installing, and maintaining Evacuation Alert Systems. They have worked on a wide range of projects across different industries and have the knowledge and expertise to design and install a system that meets your specific needs.
03
Compliance with Regulations
Gemini AMPM ensures that all Evacuation Alert Systems we install and maintain are compliant with the relevant regulations and standards, including BS 8629:2019. Gemini holds BAFE SP207 accreditation, the industry-recognised certification for the Design, Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance of Evacuation Alert Systems. We will also provide you with all the necessary documentation and certificates to demonstrate compliance with regulations and insurance requirements.
04
Quality and Reliability
Gemini AMPM uses high-quality equipment and materials to ensure that your Evacuation Alert System is reliable and effective. We have strict quality control processes in place to ensure that all installations and maintenance work are completed to the highest standards.
05
Comprehensive Service
Gemini AMPM provides a comprehensive service, from initial design and consultation through to installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance and support. We also offer 24/7 emergency support, so you can be confident that help is available when you need it.
06
Cost-effective Solutions
Gemini AMPM offers cost-effective solutions that are tailored to your specific needs. We will work with you to design a system that provides the best protection for your residents, while also being mindful of your budget.
Previous Work and Case Studies
Fire systems in Tower Hamlets, London
Our Accreditations
Get In Touch With Us
As specialist installers, protecting people from risk sits at the very heart of what we do. We understand that great installations need great maintenance to remain at optimal performance, therefore, we help businesses to maximise the performance and longevity of all life safety systems and installations. Contact us now.