FAQs

A Public Address and Voice Alarm (p a v a) system combines the functionalities of public address systems with voice alarm capabilities to deliver clear and intelligible announcements during emergencies.

This integrated system is designed to provide occupants with timely information and guidance, enabling them to respond appropriately to threats and evacuate safely.

PAVA systems enable the initiation of clear voice messages to guide and assist in the evacuation of a building or area. The primary goal is to ensure that occupants can exit a potentially dangerous situation quickly and efficiently, using verbal instructions provided through the system.

By incorporating voice alarm features into public address systems, establishments enhance their emergency communication capabilities and improve overall safety preparedness.

PAVA systems are held to rigorous standards to ensure their reliability and effectiveness in emergency situations. These standards encompass design, installation, and operation protocols that must be followed to guarantee optimal performance and compliance with safety regulations. Adherence to these standards is essential for the proper functioning of PAVA systems and the protection of occupants in various environments.

A list of these standards include:

BS 5839 Part 8:

Provides recommendations for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of voice alarm systems. Focuses on ensuring clear and understandable voice messages are broadcasted during emergencies. Specifies requirements for equipment performance to enhance the effectiveness of voice alarm systems. Covers aspects related to the integration of voice alarm systems with fire detection and alarm systems. Includes guidelines for testing and maintenance procedures to ensure the reliability of voice alarm systems during critical situations.

EN54-16:

European standard specifying requirements and laboratory tests for voice alarm control and indicating equipment. Ensures equipment used in PAVA systems meets safety and performance criteria during emergencies. Focuses on the functionality and reliability of voice alarm systems in fire detection and alarm systems. Specifies testing procedures to verify the effectiveness of voice alarm control and indicating equipment. Aims to enhance the overall safety and efficiency of voice alarm systems in various environments.

ISO 7240-16:

International Standard for the design, installation, commissioning, and service of voice alarm systems. Provides guidelines for ensuring the proper design and installation of voice alarm systems for optimal performance. Covers commissioning procedures to verify the functionality and effectiveness of voice alarm systems. Includes recommendations for the service and maintenance of voice alarm systems to ensure continuous operation.

IEC 60849:

International Standard for sound systems for emergency purposes. Specifies requirements for sound systems used in emergency situations, including voice alarm systems. Focuses on ensuring clear and intelligible audio messages are delivered during emergencies. Provides guidelines for the design and implementation of sound systems to enhance emergency communication.

BS 5839, which outlines the requirements for fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises, is not a legal requirement in itself. However, compliance with BS 5839 is often considered best practice and is widely recognized as a benchmark for fire safety standards in the UK.

While BS 5839 is not a statutory legal requirement, adherence to its guidelines is strongly recommended to ensure effective fire detection and alarm systems that meet industry standards and regulatory expectations. Compliance with BS 5839 can demonstrate a commitment to fire safety and duty of care towards occupants, employees, and visitors within non-domestic premises.

Additionally, regulatory authorities, insurers, building control bodies, and fire safety professionals may reference BS 5839 as a reference point for assessing the adequacy of fire alarm systems and compliance with fire safety regulations. Following the recommendations and principles outlined in BS 5839 can contribute to the overall safety and resilience of buildings against fire hazards.

While compliance with BS 5839 may not be a legal requirement in itself, its guidelines are instrumental in enhancing fire safety practices and ensuring the effectiveness of fire detection and alarm systems in various commercial, industrial, and public settings.

BS 5839 Part 6, which focuses on fire detection and fire alarm systems in dwellings, has undergone revisions to align with evolving fire safety practices, technologies, and regulations. Some key changes to BS 5839 Part 6 include:

1. Enhanced Alarm Coverage: The revised standards may specify increased alarm coverage in various areas of dwellings to ensure comprehensive fire detection and notification capabilities.

2. Updated Device Requirements: Changes to device specifications, such as smoke detectors, heat sensors, and alarm notification devices, to reflect advancements in technology and performance standards.

3. Integration of Smart Technologies: Incorporation of smart technologies, wireless communication protocols, and interconnected alarm systems to enhance reliability, connectivity, and ease of maintenance.

4. Consideration of Specific Dwellings: Tailoring fire detection and alarm requirements to different types of dwellings, such as high-rise buildings, single-family homes, apartments, and assisted living facilities.

5. Compliance with Regulatory Updates: Ensuring alignment with updated fire safety regulations, building codes, and industry standards to promote consistency and effectiveness in fire safety measures.

These changes to BS 5839 Part 6 aim to address emerging challenges, improve fire safety outcomes, and adapt to the dynamic landscape of residential fire protection. Staying informed about the revisions and updates to BS 5839 Part 6 is essential for implementing compliant and effective fire alarm systems in dwellings.

Within a fire alarm system, a PA (Public Address) system serves a critical role in disseminating important information and instructions during emergencies such as fires. 

By integrating a PA system into the fire alarm infrastructure, authorities can broadcast evacuation orders, safety procedures, and other essential messages to occupants, facilitating swift and organised response actions. 

This integration enhances overall safety measures and ensures effective communication in crisis situations where all building evacuation is not the desired outcome. Examples would be office blocks that require staged floor evacuation in order to control the moving crowd efficiently.

Public address systems encompass various types such as portable PA systems, wireless PA systems, and integrated PA solutions, catering to diverse requirements across different settings.

Portable PA Systems: Portable PA systems are designed for mobility and flexibility, allowing users to easily transport and set up audio communication solutions in various locations. These systems typically include compact speakers, microphones, amplifiers, and battery power sources, making them ideal for temporary events, outdoor gatherings, or emergency situations.

Wireless PA Systems: Wireless PA systems utilise radio frequency or Bluetooth technology to transmit audio signals without the need for physical cables. These systems offer increased flexibility in installation and operation, as users can place speakers and microphones wirelessly within a designated range. Wireless PA systems are popular in environments where running cables is impractical or challenging.

Integrated PA Solutions: Integrated PA solutions combine public address functionalities with additional features such as voice reinforcement, background music playback, and emergency announcement capabilities. These comprehensive systems are often installed in commercial buildings, educational institutions, and public venues to provide versatile audio communication for everyday use and emergency scenarios.

PAVA systems are essential in buildings where there is a need to deliver clear and concise spoken messages for day-to-day communications or, crucially, in the event of an emergency to safely evacuate occupants. They are typically required in environments where crowd management is necessary and where complex evacuation strategies need to be communicated clearly to ensure the safety of all building occupants.

Key components of a PAVA system:

Control panel: Central unit for system operation, message broadcasting, and emergency activation.

Amplifiers: Devices that increase the power of audio signals to drive speakers effectively.

Speakers: Output devices that broadcast voice messages and alerts throughout the premises.

Microphones: Input devices for live announcements and message recording in the system.

Emergency microphone: Dedicated microphone for emergency use to override regular announcements.

Backup power supply: Ensures system functionality during power outages or emergencies, crucial for continuous operation and reliability.

PAVA systems play a crucial role in emergency evacuation by providing clear and audible instructions to building occupants during emergencies such as fires, natural disasters, or security threats. These systems help in guiding individuals to safety through strategically placed speakers that broadcast evacuation instructions, location-specific information, and safety protocols. By swiftly and effectively communicating emergency messages, PAVA systems contribute to minimising panic, ensuring orderly evacuations, and enhancing overall safety.

Regular maintenance and testing of PAVA systems are essential to ensure their reliability and effectiveness in emergency situations. Scheduled inspections should include checking all components for functionality, verifying speaker clarity and coverage, testing control panel operations, and ensuring backup power sources are operational. Routine testing of the system’s functionality, including sound quality and message intelligibility, helps identify any issues promptly and ensures that the system performs optimally when needed most. Establishing a comprehensive maintenance schedule and adhering to best practices for testing are critical in maintaining the operational readiness of PAVA systems.

PAVA systems are specifically designed for emergency situations, providing clear and intelligible voice messages during crises to guide occupants to safety.

Integration with fire detection systems: PAVA systems are often integrated with fire detection systems to automatically trigger alerts and evacuation messages in case of a fire or other emergencies.

Priority on safety: Unlike traditional PA systems focused on general announcements, PAVA systems prioritise safety-critical communications during emergencies.

Clarity of messages: PAVA systems ensure that voice messages are clear, distinct, and easily understandable even in noisy or chaotic environments.

Utilise pre-recorded messages: Preparing and storing emergency messages in advance for quick broadcasting during crises.

Live announcements through microphones: Allowing authorised personnel to make real-time announcements to convey critical information.

Automatic messages triggered by fire detection systems: Integration with fire alarms to automatically broadcast emergency messages when smoke or fire is detected, ensuring timely alerts to occupants.

Testing procedures for PAVA system reliability

Regular system checks: Conducting routine inspections to ensure all components are operational.

Sound level testing: Verifying the adequacy of sound levels for clear message delivery.

Functionality tests of all components: Testing amplifiers, speakers, microphones, and control panels to ensure they function correctly.

Emergency scenario simulations: Performing drills to simulate emergency situations and test the system’s response and effectiveness in real-life scenarios.

Integration of PAVA with fire detection systems

Automatic activation of voice alarms on fire detection: When a fire is detected, the PAVA system automatically activates to broadcast evacuation messages.

Synchronisation of alerts for coordinated response: Ensuring that both the fire detection and voice alarm systems work harmoniously to alert occupants effectively.

Zoning to direct occupants to safe areas: Dividing the premises into zones to provide specific guidance and instructions to occupants based on their location for a safe evacuation process.

Enhanced safety during emergencies: PAVA systems provide clear instructions and alerts during crises, improving the safety and evacuation process.

Quick and clear communication to occupants: Instantaneous communication through voice messages ensures rapid dissemination of critical information to occupants.

Integration with other safety systems: PAVA systems can be integrated with fire alarms and other safety systems for a comprehensive emergency response.

Centralised control for efficient management: Central control panels allow for easy monitoring, activation, and management of the system during emergencies, enhancing overall efficiency.

Recommended maintenance practices for PAVA systems:

Regular inspections: Scheduled checks to ensure all components are in working order.

Testing backups and power supplies: Verifying the functionality of backup power sources to maintain system operation during power outages.

Cleaning and maintenance of speakers and microphones: Regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance of audio output devices.

Updating software and firmware regularly: Keeping system software up-to-date to maintain compatibility and security, ensuring smooth operation of the PAVA system.

Zoning in PAVA systems for targeted announcements:

Dividing areas into zones for specific announcements: Segmenting the premises into distinct zones to provide tailored messages as needed.

Targeted messaging for localised emergencies or instructions: Sending specific announcements to particular zones based on the nature of the emergency or information required.

Enhanced control over communication in different areas: Allowing operators to direct messages precisely to designated zones, improving communication efficiency during emergencies.

Managing background music and emergency announcements in PAVA systems:

Priority given to emergency announcements over music: During emergencies, background music is automatically muted to ensure that emergency messages are heard clearly.

Automatic muting of background music during emergencies: PAVA systems are designed to prioritise emergency announcements, automatically pausing background music when alerts are broadcasted.

Seamless transition between background music and emergency messages: Systems are programmed to smoothly switch between background music and emergency alerts to ensure a seamless and effective communication process.

Choosing the right PAVA system for your facility involves considering several factors:

Building Size and Layout: Larger buildings or those with complex layouts may require more sophisticated systems with zonal controls.

Occupancy Type: The nature of the occupancy (e.g., schools, hospitals, commercial buildings) influences the system’s complexity and features.

Compliance Requirements: Ensure the system meets local fire safety and building codes.

Integration Needs: Consider whether the PAVA system needs to integrate with other safety and security systems. Selecting a system that aligns with these factors ensures effective communication during emergencies.

Amplifiers are fundamental components of a public address voice alarm system, responsible for boosting audio signals to drive speakers effectively. By increasing the power of audio signals, amplifiers ensure that announcements and alerts are delivered with sufficient volume and clarity throughout the designated areas. These devices play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and intelligibility of audio communication within the system.

A backup power supply is a critical component of a public address voice alarm system, ensuring that the system remains operational during power outages or emergencies. By providing an alternative power source, such as batteries or generators, the backup power supply guarantees continuous functionality of the system when primary power sources fail. This feature is essential for maintaining communication capabilities and emergency notifications even in challenging circumstances.

According to industry standards and guidelines, a backup power supply is essential. Standards such as EN 54-16, which govern the design and performance requirements of voice alarm control and indicating equipment, emphasise the importance of ensuring system reliability and functionality under all circumstances, including power outages. By complying with these standards, facilities can ensure that their public address voice alarm systems remain operational during power failures, enabling the timely dissemination of critical information and enhancing overall safety and communication effectiveness.

In accordance with industry standards such as EN 54-16, the use of prerecorded messages in a public address voice alarm system is a recommended practice to facilitate efficient communication and emergency response. These standards specify that prerecorded messages should be clear, concise, and easily understandable to ensure effective communication during emergencies. By having prerecorded messages available for routine announcements, emergency notifications, and scheduled broadcasts, facilities can streamline communication processes and reduce the risk of human error in delivering critical information. Standardising the content and format of prerecorded messages also helps ensure consistency and accuracy in communication, aligning with best practices for emergency preparedness and response in various industries and jurisdictions.

A good microphone is key here and will serve as input devices in a public address voice alarm system, capturing and transmitting audio signals for live announcements and recordings. Whether used by operators for real-time communication or to record pre-programmed messages, microphones play a crucial role in ensuring that sound inputs are clear and intelligible.

EAS (Emergency Alert System) and Public Address Voice Alarm systems are both used for emergency communication in the UK.
EAS is designed to alert the public about emergencies, while Public Address Voice Alarm systems provide instructions and guidance during emergencies located in buildings.
Both systems are crucial for ensuring public safety and effective emergency response in various settings such as schools, workplaces, and public venues.
Integration of EAS with PAVA systems can enhance the overall emergency communication and response capabilities on two fronts.

The top 5 best practices for selecting an emergency alert system (EMS) can be found here.

The short answer, yes. The long answer?…

Compliance with standards such as EN 54-16 regarding the integration of a public address voice alarm system with the facility’s fire alarm system is crucial for enhancing overall safety and emergency response capabilities. By integrating these systems, facilities ensure seamless coordination between fire detection and notification systems and voice alarm systems, enabling synchronised activation of evacuation messages in the event of a fire emergency.

This integration allows for automatic triggering of voice alarms upon fire alarm activation, ensuring that occupants receive timely and clear instructions for evacuation, helping to minimise response times and enhance occupant safety. Furthermore, the integration facilitates centralised monitoring and control of both systems, enabling a comprehensive approach to emergency preparedness and compliance with regulatory requirements for fire safety systems. Overall, adherence to integration standards enhances the effectiveness of emergency communication and evacuation procedures, promoting a safer environment for building occupants and aligning with industry best practices for life safety systems.

(A printer friendly ultimate glossary of PAVA/ EVCS terms can be found here.)

AC – Alternating current – Normally talking about mains voltage

AFILS – Audio Frequency Induction Loop System(Hearing Aid T)

Amp – See Amplifier

Amplifier – Device that turns a small signal into a bigger one

ASL – Manufacturer – Application Solutions Ltd – PAVA and Security Systems

Baldwin Boxall Communications – Manufacturer of Fire Telephone Systems, Disabled Refuge and PAVA Systems

BBC – See Baldwin Boxall Communications

BS”XXXX”(Followed by numbers) – Is a British Standard

BS5839-8 – BS5839-8 is part of an extensive series of fire detection standards. It gives the latest guidelines and specifications relating to specific voice alarm systems and its overall purpose is to help save lives.

BV050Q – Baldwin Boxall Vigil 2 quad channel 50W amp

BV075D – Baldwin Boxall Vigil 3 dual channel 75W amp

BV075Q – Baldwin Boxall Vigil 3 quad channel 75W amp

BV125D – Baldwin Boxall Vigil 2 dual channel 125W amp

BV150D – Baldwin Boxall Vigil 3 dual channel 150W amp

BV150Q – Baldwin Boxall Vigil 3 quad channel 150W amp

BV225 – Baldwin Boxall Vigil 2 single channel 225W amp

BV300W – Baldwin Boxall Vigil 3 dual channel 300W amp

BVRD2M – Baldwin Boxall Router part of the Vigil 2 series

BVSMP – Baldwin Boxall Dual Power Supply/Charger

BVSMPLT – Baldwin Boxall Single Power Supply/Charger

CaE – See Cause and Effects

Cameo Systems Ltd – Manufacturer of Fire Telephone Systems

Cause – The action that sets off a sequence of events

Cause and Effects – One or more events happen as a result of something else (in which the process follows “If this, then do that”)

CCU – Central Control Unit

Chimes – A noise that plays prior to an announcement/ broadcast to get attention. (“BingBong!”)

CSL – See Cameo Systems Ltd

DAU – Distributed Audio Unit

DC – Direct current, normally relating to battery voltage. In DC circuits, the voltage polarity does not change, allowing for a steady flow of electricity.

DRS – Disabled refuge system

DTA – Disabled Toilet Alarm

DVA – Digital voice announcements – e.g. “Evacuate. Alert, Start of Test, End of Test, 2 Minute Silence”

E100 – Siemens Fire Alarm System

Eclipse – Baldwin Boxall Wall Mounted PAVA System

Effect – A sequence of events

EN”XXXX”(Followed by numbers) – European Norm standards for Europe

EN54 – The EN 54 Fire detection and fire alarm systems is a mandatory standard that specifies requirements and manufacture tests for every component of a fire detection and fire alarm system

EOL – End Of Line (Device or Resistor that is in place to help monitor the integrity of the loudspeaker line)

Euro Keys 850 – 850 Key used for Baldwin Boxall (Omnicare Disabled Refuge Remote Units)

EVCS – Emergency voice communication system (Fire telephones)

Exchange – An expander panel normally for fire telephones

FA – Fire Alarm

FACP – Fire Alarm Control Panel

Fire Panel – The fire detection side. When a fire is detected, the fire panel triggers the PAVA to act.

FireCare – Baldwin Boxall Fire Telephones/ Disabled refuge

FP – Fire Phone

FP200 – Fire Resistant Cable

FPI – Fire Panel Interface(Interface that links the fire panel to the PAVA system)

FT – Fire Telephone

GA – General Alarm(General Emergencies – Gas/Oil Leaks, CBRN – Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear)

NCO – Network Controller for Bosch systems

Ohm – Refers to the plural for the unit of electrical resistance

OmniCare – Baldwin Boxall Fire Telephones/ Disabled refuge

Outstation – A telephone unit for EVCS

PA – Public Address/ Tannoy

PAGA – Public Address/General Alarm Combined

PAVA – Public Address/Voice Alarm

POF – Plastic Optical Fibre

PTT – Press To Talk – A button that you press that allows you to start a broadcast. E.g. the button found on a fist microphone or the side of a two way radio

SigTel – C-TEC Fire Telephone Range

TIU – Tenant Interface Unit

Trigger – Used to describe an object that fires a signal into the FPI starting the Cause and Effects. Usually a Fire Panel.

VA – Voice Alarm

VAPA – Voice alarm public address – Same as PAVA

VESDA – Very Early Smoke Detection Apparatus – Xtralis, now part of Honeywell

Vi – Vox ignis

VoIP – Voice over Internet Protocol

VOX – Voice Operated Transmission – (AKA Voice Operated Switch), When a listening device detects a noise at a certain level, it will then close the switch to allow a hands free verbal announcement

Watt – The Watt (symbol: W) is a unit of power

Z – The impedance (symbol: Z) is the AC equivalent of resistance in an electrical circuit, measured in Ohms.

Z-EOL – Impedance based End of Line

External Links

The printer friendly Ultimate Glossary of PAVA/ EVCS terms can be found here.