Emergency Voice Communication Systems (EVCS) for Residential Settings
Traditionally utilised in commercial & public buildings, EVC is now recommended for residential settings following updates to fire safety standards.
These systems connect individuals waiting in disabled refuge areas and Fire Officers conducting building sweeps.
Specify compliant Emergency Voice Communication Systems (EVCS) for residential buildings, including disabled refuges, evacuation lifts and firefighter communication points. Designed in line with BS 5839-9:2021 and informed by the publication of BS 9991:2024.
Experience You Can Trust
Baldwin Boxall’s extensive experience spans diverse environments, including commercial, entertainment, and residential spaces.
Why use EVCS for Residential Buildings?
Disabled refuges
In buildings where phased or managed evacuation is part of the strategy, refuge communication points allow occupants to communicate their location and receive instructions.
Evacuation lifts and lobbies
Where evacuation lifts are provided, clear communication between lift lobbies and a control point can support coordinated evacuation and incident management.
Firefighter communication points
EVCS can provide reliable two-way communication between designated locations within a building and a central control position, supporting operational coordination.
OmniCALL EVC System
Prepare to redefine safety standards with OmniCALL EVC, Baldwin Boxall’s groundbreaking innovation in Emergency Voice Communication (EVC).
- Ready for BS8893:2024 Compliance
- Fully compliant to BS5839-9:2021
Commissioning, maintenance and lifecycle support
We provide specification assistance aligned to fire strategy, commissioning support, maintenance planning, and lifecycle guidance.Downloads and specification support
We can provide residential EVCS specification packs, technical documentation, product datasheets, and project support guidance.
Residential EVC Projects
Our alarm systems are specified and installed globally, protecting residents at some of the largest residential construction projects in the UK and globally.
Landmark Pinnacle
A standalone EVC system was supplied to this 75-storey residential tower in Canary Wharf. One of the tallest residential buildings in London, providing over 900 apartments.
Battersea Power Station
Baldwin Boxall supplied standalone EVC systems, networked EVC and networked voice alarm across various phases of Battersea’s 42-acre regeneration.
Wembley, North East Lands
The expansion of the Wembley area, delivering a mixed-use neighbourhood including residential buildings, office space and retail units. Supplied with a number of standalone EVC and VA systems.
Wood Wharf, Canary Wharf
The expansion of the Canary Wharf Estate, delivering a mixed-use neighbourhood including residential buildings, office space and retail units. Supplied with a number of standalone, networked EVC and VA systems.
Regency Tower, Qatar
A high-rise tower development providing residential and commercial accommodation within a prominent urban location in Qatar. Fitted with a standalone OmniCare EVC system.
London South Bank University
Student accommodation associated with London South Bank University, supplied with a networked OmniCare EVC system.
Built in Britain. Supported for the long term. Trusted for over forty years.
Seven year warranty
Every system is backed by a seven year warranty that reflects the quality of our engineering and the confidence we have in long-term performance.
Designed and manufactured in the UK
All OmniCALL equipment is built in our own UK facilities. It means consistent quality, short supply chains and easy access to the people who design and test the technology.
Real support from real engineers
You get practical help from UK based specialists. No scripted answers. No ticket loops. Just clear guidance from people who understand how EVC systems behave in real buildings.
We stay with you
We support systems throughout their life. If there is a problem, we work with you until it’s fixed. That approach has shaped our reputation for reliability and trust.
Standards & Guidance
It is important to note that British Standards are codes of practice, not legislation. They are typically applied through fire strategy decisions, building control routes and dutyholder responsibilities.
BS 9991:2024 (Residential Buildings)
A British Standard code of practice for fire safety in the design, management and use of residential buildings, published on 27 November 2024.
BS 5839-9:2021
Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings. Code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems
EVCS vs Evacuation Alert Systems (EAS)
EVCS provides two-way communication supporting managed evacuation and rescue operations and is covered by BS 5839-9. Evacuation Alert Systems are designed for use by the Fire and Rescue Service to manage evacuation in buildings containing flats and are covered by BS 8629.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are EVCS required under BS 9991:2024 for residential buildings?
BS 9991:2024 is a code of practice, not legislation, but it introduces updated fire safety recommendations that can influence EVCS provision.
EVCS may be required where:
- Evacuation lifts are provided
- Inclusive evacuation is part of the strategy
- Buildings are tall or complex
- Fire strategy identifies the need for two-way communication
Final requirements are determined through the fire strategy and agreed with building control.
Which standard covers EVCS in the UK?
EVCS design, installation and maintenance are governed by BS 5839-9:2021.
This standard applies to:
- Disabled refuge systems
- Fire telephones
- Assistance Alarms
- Central control panels
Compliance ensures reliable two-way emergency communication in residential buildings.
Are evacuation lift lobbies required to have EVCS?
Where evacuation lifts are included in the fire strategy, communication between lift lobbies and a control point is typically required.
BS 9991:2024 references evacuation lift provision, and EVCS is commonly specified to support safe, coordinated evacuation.
When are disabled refuge communication systems required?
Disabled refuge EVCS points are typically required where:
- Phased or managed evacuation strategies are used
- Inclusive evacuation planning is implemented
- PEEPs identify assisted evacuation needs
They allow occupants to communicate directly with a control point during emergencies.
How does EVCS support inclusive evacuation and PEEPs?
EVCS supports inclusive evacuation by:
- Enabling communication at refuge points
- Supporting evacuation lift coordination
- Assisting implementation of Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)
It ensures occupants can request assistance and receive instructions during evacuation.
Can EVCS be retrofitted into existing residential buildings?
Yes. EVCS can be retrofitted into:
- Existing high-rise residential buildings
- Refurbishment schemes
- Fire safety remediation projects
System type (radial or loop-wired) should align with building constraints and long-term maintenance strategy.
What maintenance is required for residential EVCS?
Under BS 5839-9, EVCS requires:
- Routine inspection and testing
- Battery and fault monitoring checks
- Proper documentation and certification
Ongoing maintenance ensures system reliability and compliance.