Public Address Voice Alarm Systems
Public Address Voice Alarm Systems PAVA
BS 5839 Part 8:2013: is the code of practice covering the requirements for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of Public Address/Voice Alarm (PAVA). A traditional fire alarm system uses a sounder, bell or possibly a strobe to indicate an activation and that an evacuation is required. In some circumstances this may lead to confusion, panic and a possible delay in the evacuation from the area/building. Public Address Voice Alarm Systems (PAVA) are designed to provide an effective method of communicating information to a large area or building used by the general public and/or employees. We offer maintenance support which can be included within the fire alarm service inspection, for both new and existing systems.
What PAVA Systems Do
1. Public Address (PA)
The PA side handles everyday announcements, such as:
- Informational messages (e.g., “The train to Oxford arrives at Platform 2”).
- Staff paging.
- Background music (BGM).
- Scheduled messages (e.g., closing-time reminders).
2. Voice Alarm (VA)
The VA side is tied to the building’s fire detection and alarm system. It provides:
- Automatic, pre-recorded evacuation messages.
- Live emergency announcements from fire wardens or security.
- Zone-based evacuation, enabling phased or selective evacuation.
- High intelligibility speech, even in noisy environments.
Voice alarm systems are designed to improve evacuation efficiency and reduce panic in emergencies—spoken instructions outperform simple sirens.
Key Features of PAVA Systems
Zoned Audio Distribution
A building is divided into zones, allowing:
- Targeted messages to specific areas
- Phased evacuation (e.g., evacuate the fire floor first, then adjacent floors)
Priority Management
Emergency messages override all other audio:
- Fire/emergency voice messages.
- Live emergency microphone paging.
- Routine PA announcements.
- Background music.
Integration with Fire Systems
PAVA ties into the building’s fire alarm control panel (FACP), typically via:
- Contact inputs/outputs.
- Audio trigger lines.
- Network communication protocols.
When a fire is detected, the system automatically switches to emergency mode.
Speech Intelligibility
VA systems must meet strict intelligibility standards, often measured by:
- STI (Speech Transmission Index).
- STIPA (a simplified version of STI).
Building acoustics, speaker placement, and system power must support clear speech.
Redundancy and Reliability
To comply with safety standards, PAVA systems include:
- Backup amplifiers.
- Redundant networks.
- Battery power supplies (24–72 hours standby, depending on jurisdiction).
Modern Trends
- IP-based PAVA (networked audio, easier scaling).
- Integration with BMS and security systems.
- AI-enhanced announcement scheduling.
- Self-monitoring loudspeakers and line testing.
- Smart evacuation strategies
Updated Guidance On Scope Of Services For Fire Risk Assessors
The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has published Version 2 of its Fire Risk Assessors "Standard Scope of Services", setting out clearer expectations for the fire risk assessment process. This long-awaited update provides stronger legislative alignment, improved transparency, and a shared understanding for both assessors and their clients.
Tough New Laws To Make Online Marketplaces Reduce The Risk Of Fire
The UK Government has taken a major step toward making online shopping safer with the Product Regulation and Metrology Act, which has now received Royal Assent. As part of the broader Plan for Change, the new legislation strengthens consumer protection by holding online marketplaces to the same safety standards as traditional high street retailers.
Battery Energy Storage Systems & The Impact On Fire Safety Challenges
As Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) become central to the transition to reduced emissions in the UK, a critical question emerges. Are firefighting strategies keeping pace with the rapid rise of this technology? While BESS supports renewable energy integration and strengthens grid resilience, it also introduces new, serious hazards particularly for first responders, people and property.
Externally Monitored to Ensure that we meet a High Standard of Service.
As members of the SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board), We maintain service records and monitor our success. The SSAIB, is a leading certification body for organisations providing security systems and services, fire detection alarm systems, and monitoring services. So, you can be confident that we strive to provide our clients with a reliable and professional level of service.
