Why Every Commercial Building Needs a Disabled Refuge (EVCS) System Now More Than Ever

In a fire or emergency, every second counts. But for individuals with mobility challenges, safe evacuation becomes exponentially harder without the right infrastructure. That’s where Disabled Refuge Systems—also known as Emergency Voice Communication Systems (EVCS)—come into play.

If you're responsible for fire safety in a commercial building, residential block, or public venue, ensuring compliance with BS 5839-9 isn’t optional—it’s essential. In this article, we’ll cover what an EVCS is, why your building needs one, and how Fitzroy Fire Safety can support your compliance and protect lives.

🔍 What is a Disabled Refuge / EVCS System?

A Disabled Refuge Area is a protected, fire-resistant space where people who cannot easily use stairs can wait safely during an evacuation. These areas are typically located on each floor near fire exits and are equipped with an Emergency Voice Communication System (EVCS), allowing two-way communication with a central control point (usually at the fire panel or reception).

An EVCS allows disabled or mobility-impaired individuals to alert fire wardens, building managers, or emergency services to their presence and receive reassurance and instructions while waiting for assisted evacuation.

⚖️ Legal Requirements & Compliance Standards (UK)

Under UK fire safety legislation and The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, building owners and employers are legally responsible for ensuring the safe evacuation of all occupants, including those with disabilities. EVCS systems are further mandated by:

• BS 5839-9:2021 – Code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems.

• Building Regulations Approved Document M – Access to and use of buildings.

• Equality Act 2010 – Duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people.

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Failing to provide an EVCS where required can result in legal action, fines, or in the worst-case scenario, injury or loss of life.

🏢 Who Needs a Disabled Refuge System?

You may be legally required to install and maintain a Disabled Refuge / EVCS if your building falls under any of the following categories:

• Multi-storey commercial buildings

• Hotels and residential complexes

• Healthcare facilities

• Shopping centres

• Schools and universities

• Public venues like theatres and stadiums

Essentially, if your building has more than one floor and caters to the public or employees, you likely need a compliant refuge solution.

🔧 What Does an EVCS System Consist Of?

A standard EVCS installation includes:

• Refuge Call Points: Hands-free or push-to-talk intercoms installed at refuge areas.

• Master Handset or Panel: Located at a control room or reception for two-way communication.

• Battery Backup: Ensures operation during power failure, aligned with BS standards.

• Wiring Infrastructure: Fire-rated cabling to maintain system integrity during emergencies.

Modern EVCS setups can be integrated with other fire safety systems, including fire alarms and building management systems, for a streamlined emergency response.

🚨 Why EVCS is Crucial in a Fire Emergency

Let’s paint a real-world picture: a fire breaks out on the second floor of a commercial office. The fire alarm sounds, and most occupants begin evacuating. But someone in a wheelchair reaches the stairwell and realises they can’t go any further.

Without a refuge area and EVCS, they’re left vulnerable, potentially unseen and unheard.

With the right system in place, they simply press a button, speak to the building control team, and wait in a protected space until a fire warden or the fire brigade assists. It’s peace of mind in a moment of chaos.

🔍 How Often Should EVCS Systems Be Serviced?

To remain compliant and reliable, EVCS systems should be:

• Tested monthly (as part of routine fire safety checks)

• Serviced every 6 months by a qualified engineer

• Visually inspected regularly to ensure cabling, panels, and call points are undamaged and accessible

Fitzroy Fire Safety offers scheduled maintenance packages to keep your EVCS fully compliant with BS 5839-9 and functioning when it matters most.

⚙️ Installation: What to Expect

When you partner with Fitzroy Fire Safety, we begin with a detailed site survey to assess your layout and determine optimal refuge point locations. We design and install a bespoke EVCS that:

• Meets all British Standards and legal requirements

• Integrates with your existing fire systems

• Is easy to use for both occupants and emergency personnel

All installations are fully documented and include handover training for your team.

✅ Why Choose Fitzroy Fire Safety?

At Fitzroy Fire Safety, we don’t just install systems—we create safer environments. Here’s what sets us apart:

• ✔️ Qualified Engineers with years of EVCS expertise

• ✔️ Fully Compliant Designs adhering to BS 5839-9

• ✔️ 24/7 Call-Out Support for peace of mind

• ✔️ Tailored Maintenance Plans to suit your building

• ✔️ End-to-End Project Management – from design to commissioning

We understand the life-critical importance of refuge systems, and we treat every project with the urgency and care it deserves.

📈 Boost Your Building’s Safety and Compliance Today

Whether you’re a facilities manager, property developer, or responsible person under fire safety legislation, investing in a reliable Disabled Refuge / EVCS system is one of the smartest safety decisions you can make.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t just about compliance. It’s about creating a building where everyone—regardless of ability—has a fair chance of safe evacuation in an emergency.

📞 Talk to the Experts at Fitzroy Fire Safety

We make fire safety simple, reliable, and compliant. If your building needs an EVCS or your current system needs an upgrade, our engineers are ready to help.

🔧 Book a Free Site Survey Today📍 11 Russell Court, Bloomsbury, London, WC1H 0LL📞 07794 354838📧 Admin@FitzroyFire.co.uk🌐 www.FitzroyFire.co.uk