Standards Development

Scope

To provide a British code of practice for sound systems used for emergency purposes where a communication plan is required:

a) under the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, including lockdown, evacuation and invacuation; &

b) also covering audio communication for fire emergencies where the audio system is not connected to the fire alarm, especially relevant post Grenfell for high rise residential buildings.

Purpose

BSI is considering the development of a new British Code of Practice to provide guidance on the use of sound systems for emergency communication in premises where a formal communication plan is required.

The proposed standard would address two key areas where existing guidance is limited or fragmented:

• Terrorism related emergencies, supporting communication plans required under the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 (Martyn’s Law), including scenarios involving lockdown, evacuation and invacuation; and

• Fire emergencies in high rise residential buildings, particularly where audio communication systems operate independently of the fire detection and alarm system and where clear, evolving instructions to residents are essential.

The standard would focus on communication outcomes, providing guidance on planning, design, audibility, intelligibility, testing and operation of emergency audio systems, while complementing existing fire, security and product standards rather than duplicating them.

Stakeholder views are invited on the need for this proposed standard, its scope, and its potential value to duty holders, designers, operators, residents and enforcing authorities.