Disabled Refuge & Toilet Alarms
Explore our collection of disabled refuge alarms and toilet alarms. With control panels, outstations, and toilet alarm kits, our range of disabled refuge alarms and toilet alarms has everything you need to create a safe space that’s compliant with public building regulations. Our disabled refuge alarms and toilet alarms give you reliable communication channels for anyone in need of assistance.
What is a Disabled Refuge Alarm?
A disabled refuge alarm is a safety system designed to provide assistance and communication ability for people with disabilities during emergency situations, particularly in buildings with multiple levels or complex evacuation routes. This specialised alarm allows individuals who may have mobility challenges to signal for help if they are unable to evacuate independently during an emergency like a fire.
Do All Disabled Toilets Require an Emergency Alarm in the UK?
Yes, In the United Kingdom, building regulations make emergency alarms in disabled toilets a legal requirement. The Equality Act 2010 and British Standard BS 8300 specify that accessible toilets must be equipped with an alarm system that can be activated in case of emergency. This ensures that if a person experiences difficulty or falls, they can quickly summon assistance. The alarm must be clearly visible, easily reachable, and capable of generating both audible and visual signals to signal that the user requires assistance.
How to Reset or Turn Off a Disabled Toilet Alarm
Resetting a disabled toilet alarm typically involves pressing a specific reset button located near the original alarm activation point. Most systems require authorised personnel to acknowledge the alarm and then manually reset it, once the individual has been checked on and made safe if necessary. It's crucial that reset procedures do not compromise the safety of the person who initially triggered the alarm, such as an accidental reset before the issue has been acknowledged and resolved.
What Are Emergency Toilet Alarms Connected To?
Emergency toilet alarms are connected to central monitoring points within a building to ensure rapid response times. They are typically linked directly to staff reception areas, security offices, or building management control rooms. In some cases, alarms may also connect to external monitoring services or directly to on-site emergency response teams.
Can You Put a Disabled Refuge on Fire Alarm Zone Charts?
Disabled refuges can and indeed should be integrated into fire alarm zone charts as part of building safety planning. These designated safe areas are essential for individuals who cannot immediately evacuate during an emergency.