Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings. Code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems

BS 5839-9:2011 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings. Code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems

BS 5839-9 provides recommendations for the planning, design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems in and around buildings and at sports, entertainment and similar venues. It does not recommend whether or not an emergency voice communication system should be installed in a given premises.

BS 5839-9 primarily relates to the use of emergency voice communication (EVC) in assisting both firefighters and those responsible for evacuating buildings or sports stadiums in fire emergency situations, including evacuation of disabled persons. Use, other than in fire emergency situations, by disabled persons and others, although not precluded, is not addressed in detail.

BS 5839-9 covers systems with components linked by wires, wirelessly, or a combination of both. Other than in exceptional circumstances, EVC systems are not intended as the means of raising a fire alarm, in lieu of manual call points. Refer to BS 5839-1 for guidance on fire detection and alarm systems.

Voice alarm systems are primarily intended for the automatic broadcasting of evacuation messages; they are covered by BS 5839-8 and are therefore excluded from this part of BS 5839.

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