Disabled Refuge Systems in London: What Are They and Why Are They Mandatory?
- Agatha CandyKitty
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
What Is a Disabled Refuge System?
A disabled refuge system is an emergency voice communication system (EVCS) designed to allow communication between a person with reduced mobility and building management or emergency services during a fire or evacuation.
It is installed at designated “refuge points” — typically in protected stairwells or safe lobbies — where individuals can wait for assistance if they are unable to evacuate independently.
Where Are Disabled Refuge Systems Required in London?
In the UK, including London, disabled refuge systems are required in most non-domestic buildings that are more than one storey and are accessed by the public. They are also mandatory in:
Multi-storey office buildings
Hotels, shopping centres, and care homes
High-rise residential buildings
Educational institutions and hospitals
The relevant legislation includes:
The Equality Act 2010 (formerly the Disability Discrimination Act)
Building Regulations Approved Document B and M
BS 9999 and BS 5839-9 (for system design and performance)
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
Failure to provide or maintain such a system can result in enforcement action, reputational harm, and risk to life.
How Does a Disabled Refuge System Work?
Each refuge point has a call unit (hands-free or handset) connected to a central control panel. In an emergency:
A user presses the call button at the refuge point.
The signal is transmitted to a central location (e.g. reception or fire control room).
Staff can speak with the individual and coordinate assistance.
Some systems integrate with fire telephones or fire alarm systems, depending on building complexity.
Maintenance of Disabled Refuge Systems in London
Refuge systems must be maintained in accordance with BS 5839-9 and BS 9999, with the following recommended testing schedule:
Weekly functional test of one or more call points on rotation
Monthly system check to confirm all indicators and connections function correctly
Annual full test of every outstation, backup power, and control unit
During servicing, the engineer should:
Check call initiation and two-way audio
Inspect cables, enclosures, and signage
Test power supply and standby battery performance
Confirm compliance with the original fire strategy design
Update the fire safety logbook with all findings
Common Issues with Disabled Refuge Systems
Faulty or unresponsive call points
Loose wiring or corroded terminals
Poor signage or inaccessible units
Systems not included in the fire risk assessment
No documented maintenance history
These issues are frequently highlighted during audits and fire authority inspections.
Who Should Maintain Disabled Refuge Systems?
Only competent engineers with knowledge of EVCS systems and current standards should service refuge systems. Ideal contractors should:
Be trained in BS 5839-9 and BS 9999
Provide maintenance certificates and test reports
Be familiar with systems from manufacturers like C-Tec, Baldwin Boxall, and SigNET
Be able to respond quickly in the event of a system fault
In-house staff may conduct simple visual checks, but full system testing must be carried out by specialists.
Final Thoughts on Disabled Refuge Systems in London
Disabled refuge systems are not just about compliance — they are about dignity and safety for vulnerable building users.
In London, where high-rise and multi-occupancy buildings are common, having a working, maintained system is essential.
Regular testing, clear documentation, and professional servicing ensure that when help is needed most, communication lines are open — and lives can be saved.
Need a reliable Disabled Refuge provider in London?
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