Design

Compliance with Standards and Regulations
All Black Box designs comply with local building codes, fire safety regulations, and accessibility standards such as BS 8300 in the United Kingdom. Specific requirements may vary, but adherence to these standards is essential.

Accessibility
It is essential that refuge areas and call points are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes consideration for those with mobility restrictions, hearing and vision impairments, and cognitive disabilities.

Location and Safety of Refuge Areas
Refuge areas must be situated in locations that offer protection from fire and smoke, often near fire-resistant stairwells or within specifically constructed rooms. Easy and unobstructed access must be maintained at all times.

Ease of Use
Communication units must be intuitive and easy to operate under stress. Clear instructions should be available, and the design should minimise the steps required to initiate a call for help.

Audibility and Visibility
Audible signals must be loud enough to be heard in various conditions and visual signals must are bright and clear to help users with auditory and visual difficulties.

Integration with Existing Systems
The refuge system should integrate seamlessly with a building’s existing emergency and communication systems, including fire alarms and public address systems.

Reliability and Maintenance
Regular checks and maintenance are vital to ensure continued system integrity. This includes routine testing of communication units, battery backups, and ensuring all components are in working order.

Training and Awareness
Staff and regular occupants must be trained to use disabled refuge system. Building management should conduct regular drills and training sessions.

Supply & Installation

Refuge Area Call Points

Placement
Call points should be installed in designated refuge areas which should be in fire-protected compartments usually located on stairwell landings or within specially constructed refuge rooms.

Components
Call points must be accessible and include a clear two-way communication unit with a simple interface, typically featuring large buttons and Braille or tactile markings for the visually impaired.

Master Control Panels

Location
Placed at a central control room, security point, or fire command centre.

Functionality
All refuge call points must be monitored and able to receive incoming calls, and designated refuge area communications. Panels should indicate the exact location of a call, enabling quick and targeted response.

Audio/Visual Indicators
Units must have both visual indicators (LED lights) and audio cues to ensure they are accessible to individuals with sensory disabilities.

Power Supply and Backup
Systems must be connected to a reliable power supply with battery backup to ensure functionality during power cuts.

Signage
It is essential that clear and compliant signage can direct individuals to refuge areas and explain how to use the communication system. Signs must be clearly visible and in multiple formats e.g. text, Braille and pictograms.

Innovation

Digital Display and Messaging
Some advanced systems include digital displays that can provide real-time status updates and messaging, such as evacuation instructions or reassurance and communication to persons within refuge areas.

Integration with Building Management Systems
Integration with the building’s management system can enhance monitoring, maintenance, and automated reporting, ensuring quicker resolution of any detected issues.

Remote Monitoring
Some systems can allow remote monitoring and communication, enabling centralised control and additional points of contact during emergencies.

Multilingual Support
Some systems offer multilingual support to increase accessibility ensuring efficient and correct use for all nationalities.

Designing an effective disabled refuge system requires a multifaceted approach that combines safety compliance, accessibility, and modern technology. By considering the unique needs of individuals with disabilities and integrating robust communication and safety measures, these systems play a crucial role in enhancing building safety and ensuring all occupants can be safely evacuated during emergencies.