Emergency Voice Communication System
Two-way voice systems for safe emergency evacuation
An Emergency Voice Communication System (EVCS) is designed to help the safe evacuation of everyone onsite. It is an essential measure to help disabled or mobility-impaired people to get out of the building safely. As part of our complete fire protection service, the experts at Amthal will assess how ECVS could work for your building offering professional installation and maintenance for ongoing functionality and legal compliance.
Does my building need an Emergency Voice Communication System (ECVS)?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the responsible person for your building must ensure there is a safe evacuation route for all persons using the building, including those with disabilities.
An ECVS provides two-way communication between the emergency services and anyone inside a building who needs to be evacuated but is unable to leave immediately.
British Standard BS 5839-9:2021 also sets out a code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems, and it’s important that your organisation complies with these recommendations.
As your trusted fire protection partner, we will recommend the right ECVS system to ensure full compliance with all the relevant legislation. We provide regular, scheduled testing and maintenance for ongoing compliance.
How does an ECVS work?
An EVCS is designed to provide secure, fixed-location, two-way voice communication during an emergency. It is bi-directional, meaning that communication can be initiated from either end of the system, and it operates in full-duplex mode, which allows for the two people at each end of the system to talk at once.
An EVCS is made up of a central control point, with various outstations dotted around the building in refuge areas. These are safer places for a person to await help from the emergency services. A person should always be able to access the emergency voice communication system from a refuge area.
Constant communication throughout the evacuation process
During the first phases of an evacuation, even before emergency services arrive on the scene, an EVCS can be used to communicate between people at the control point and those in refuge areas.
Typically, the fire and rescue service would then take control of an evacuation on arrival.
During a fire, the fire and rescue service would continue to use the EVCS to assist fire fighting. Anyone who cannot use an escape route would be able to identify their location and communicate with the control centre.
Where should the ECVS points be located?
EVCS outstations should be placed in all refuge areas.
These areas should be a relatively safe place where people who cannot easily use fire escapes and evacuation lifts may call for assistance. This allows building management and emergency services to safely help remove these people from the building when stairwell crowding has eased.
For ease of use, it is recommended that your emergency voice communication system is positioned somewhere with minimal background noise. If that’s not possible, installing an acoustic hood or something similar around the outstation could help. For this same reason, it is also recommended that fire alarm sounders should not be located near outstations.
Maintenace Manager, Atrium Hotel, Heathrow
“We recently signed a maintenance contract with AMTHAL Fire, and we couldn’t be happier with the service provided. After struggling with another company for over two years, AMTHAL Fire stepped in and resolved all our fire alarm issues in just a matter of days. The professionalism and efficiency of their team were outstanding. Special thanks to Danny Walsh, whose expertise and dedication were particularly impressive. His attention to detail and commitment to ensuring everything was functioning perfectly gave us great peace of mind. We highly recommend AMTHAL Fire for their exceptional service and professionalism. They have certainly set a high standard in the industry, and we are very grateful for their quick and effective solutions.”
Matthew Haskins, Project Manager
I started with Amthal as an Installation Engineer in 2021 with ambitions to progress into project management. Within 2 years I was given the opportunity to move into a project manager role and I have now been working in this role for a year, managing projects with values of up to £150,000.
I feel l like I have come along way since starting my journey at Amthal and really appreciate all the opportunities that have come from it. We have a fantastic team of people who are always there to support each other, and I couldn’t be happier that I made the decision to join.
Sam Paprotny, Group Operations Manager
I joined Amthal in 2015 shortly after my twin brother. Initially completing a business administration apprenticeship I’ve since moved on to complete a Level 5 in Leadership and Management and I have progressed to become the Group Operations Manager.
Amthal has provided me with great development opportunities which is reflective in my continuous career progression. The culture the business has created is supportive and friendly and is an incredible place to work.
Alex Dearden, Team Leader Internal Sales
I started with Amthal in September 2020 as a sales apprentice and now having completed my Level 4 Sales Executive qualification I have developed to become the team leader of the internal small works and remedial works team.
Amthal is a fantastic place to work and our management have been really supportive of my training journey from completing the apprenticeship to Continuous Professional Development courses and days out with the engineer so that we can understand all the technical elements of our business. The group of people I work with every day makes for an enjoyable atmosphere in the office and no matter what team someone might be in, there is always support across the board.
Reece Paprotny, Group Commercial Director
I started with Amthal in 2015 as an accounts apprentice having joined from outside the industry, having completed my AAT as part of the apprenticeship I’m now well on my way to obtaining my CIMA qualification.
Amthal have invested in my development continuously since 2015 allowing me the opportunity to develop through the business into my current role as Group Commercial Director.
Daniel Greeves, MSR Fire Engineer
I started with Amthal in December 2021 as a trainee engineer with no previous industry experience. A few of my main tasks were to perform weekly fire alarm tests and monthly emergency light checks for our customers.
Along the way I would be spending time with senior engineers on site and be placed on external training courses which were great. I’m now well on my way to becoming a fully qualified fire alarm engineer regularly working on my own servicing and fault diagnosing.
Morgan Mitchell, Installation Coordinator
I joined Amthal in 2018 as an apprentice. while working within the install team as a coordinator I completed my Level 3 Business Admin Qualification. I then continued my development completing my Level 3 Management & Team Leadership Qualification which has supported me in my role and mentoring new coordinators in my team.
I have been at Amthal nearly 5 ½ years and I believe it is a great company to work for as they value you as a team member and invest in your development to encourage you to be the best you can be. Amthal encourages you to share and contribute your ideas whilst creating a supportive and enjoyable work atmosphere which has allowed me to grow both personally and in my career.
David Pascoe, System Design & Estimator
I started with Amthal in June 2005 with no industry experience, initially starting as a multi disciplined service and installation engineer I moved in a different direction and now work within the sales team as a life safety and security system designer and estimator.
The team at Amthal is like an extension to my family, and they have helped me grow both professionally and outside of work, having met my wife through the company. There have been many changes throughout my time with Amthal, but they remain strong to their core beliefs of making Amthal a friendly place to work for and being committed to developing exceptional talent.
Finance Director at Hawksmoor Group
Amthal Fire & Security has excelled in the delivery of innovative security solutions, even when the buildings we have purchased have existing systems and supply companies already in place. The team works seamlessly around our timetables to ensure fire and security systems are planned into the design of the restaurant, installed with minimal disruption and maintained with a 24/7 priority response. Amthal is a company on which Hawskmoor has come to rely as we grow our restaurant portfolio for the safety and security of our staff and guests.
Events, Marketing & Office Manager for Sourced Market
The whole ethos of Sourced Market is meeting a demand for high quality, locally sourced produce. We are incredibly proud of the suppliers we work with and want to ensure we offer the best protection in our food outlets for our staff and customers. This is where Amthal Fire & Security fit the bill perfectly, in working with us across our sites, right from the initial design phase, to making sure the systems installed are not invasive to the style and feel of our creation, through installation with minimal disruption and maintenance.
Communications Director for Watford Palace Theatre
We have an obligation to provide security and accessibility for all theatre goers, in addition to key members of staff. But any security installed had to be carefully considered with regards its impact on the aesthetics and architectural style of the Edwardian Palace Theatre. Amthal Fire & Security understood this and following a thorough site survey, designed the access control system around our needs. The installation process was quick and the new system is easy to manage and ensures complete access, safety and security. We are also safe in the knowledge it’s future proofed so that as we continue to develop the site, the level of protection can continue to grow with the facilities available.
Office Services Manager, Notting Hill Housing Group
Balancing the creation of a welcoming environment with ensuring site security is a constant challenge. This is where working with a trusted partner as Amthal Fire & Security, who has been there with us for over a decade and understands our working environment, is a great assurance for the team. Amthal Fire & Security’s proactive approach ensures security upgrades and now maintenance needs are identified. They operate on a seamless basis without affecting the daily working environment and we trust their reliability and ability to deliver on all our requirements quickly, cost effectively, on time and in full. This means Notting Hill Housing Group staff can focus on our duty to deliver affordable housing and better social communities in London.
Housing Manager, RLHA
I have been asked to pass on the thanks of the owners at Thameside Place for sending such a polite and thorough guy out to the estate today, In their words: He was a really excellent engineer – polite, thorough and professional and if you’re in contact with his company we would like that passing on please.
Property Services Project Manager, Interserve Construction Limited
Amthal worked with Interserve during the pre-construction phase to advise the client on the alterations to reduce costs and provide an efficient system for management of the building. They have provided a high level of workmanship and have been very helpfully in providing advice and solutions where issues have occurred. We have found them to be a good value for money sub contractor and would be happy to employ them on future projects.
ABM Property (Southern)
I’d like to thank you for the excellent assessment and quotation you produced for handling the fire system and maintenance in one of my tenanted properties. You carried out a full and comprehensive survey and came up with an excellent regime for all aspects of the fire safety in the house and all obviously to British Standard. I am absolutely convinced that you and your company are more than capable of handling this crucial aspect of the safety of this residence as well as any commercial premises you are asked to look at. I was particularly impressed by your professional and complete approach. I will do my best to look out for business for you among my contacts as I am completely convinced that you will do a great job and impress them considerably.
Director, Jollyes Petfood Superstores
This is an exciting time for Jollyes as we are committed to our growth plan, with three new stores already in the pipeline for next year. However, just as important is for us to look after our existing stores, especially in terms of security for our staff and our customers. Since we started working with Amthal, they have proven to operate to a high standard, always ensuring our fire and security equipment is up to date and operating effectively. For existing stores, Amthal provides ultimate peace of mind and new stores can be opened on a much tighter timeframe, with the efficient and flexible services provided. And if we do have an issue it is dealt with instantly and hassle free.
Operations Manager, Bespoke Cycling
At Bespoke Cycling our desire is to marry world-class products, professionalism and integrity with a level of customer service and support that is unique in the industry. This is something we vehemently want to protect and looked to the security industry to source the latest solutions to ensure our products, staff and visitors are safe and secure. Amthal Fire & Security instantly stood out with the level of care and attention paid to ensuring the right security system was selected for our purposes. Not only did they complete a full site survey at each site, but then worked out a works programme for the installation process to operate within our very tight fitout schedule. The result is a seamless integration of security which is hardly noticeable and can be managed centrally, to offer powerful protection.
Police Constable, Hertfordshire Constabulary
We are constantly working to improve the safety and security of St Albans’ city centre. This is not only by encouraging the General Public to remain vigilant without causing alarm, but also in partnership with management teams at prevalent destinations to see where action can be taken. “At Christopher Place, state of the art CCTV cameras are now in situ to complement Police patrols and offer constant monitoring and zoom functionality. Already making their mark, the improved visibility means our local community and the people who work and visit the vicinity are even better protected in the fight against crime.
Director, Alfresco Living
The new showroom is the ideal place to present product examples from our high-end product range. We wanted to create an open and welcoming environment, but at the same time we were very conscious to ensure the right security was in place to protect against risk of vandalism or theft. Amthal, a local company, came highly recommended and made an instant impression. The team worked closely with us and offered professional advice throughout, from initial design to the organisation of a smooth installation of the bespoke intruder alarm system. They also ensured we achieved the necessary requirements for fire safety.
School Business Manager, Garston Manor School
The school firmly believes in creating an environment whereby all students have the right to access learning at a level and setting appropriate to their needs that will enable them to enjoy and achieve. To ensure this can occur, we must establish an atmosphere of trust, security and mutual respect. “Security in this respect is an absolute priority for the school, right from the perimeter and the site boundaries through to all internal areas. Amthal understood this and developed a works programme to maintain all our fire and security systems. We have been very impressed with their sensitivity to the school’s aims and vision and care taken in looking after our site.
Site Manager
Five years ago when I took over the school we had a number of security issues. Now, thanks to Amthal we have a system that works well with few problems. In a competitive market, I was very lucky to find a company that truly put my thoughts first, listened to what I wanted and delivered exactly what they said they would.
Director, Wates Group Limited
Richard, as things have almost come to a close regarding the above building, I thought I would drop you a line in order to say thanks for what Amthal have carried out there. As you know, it was a bit of a task getting the spec right and there were also variations towards the end that didn’t help your engineers. However, all the security items have worked out very well and this is a great weight off my mind and the staff who occupy the building now. Could you also pass on my thanks to Dave (I’m sure this is his name). He was most obliging when we altered a few things at the end and his training presentation to the staff was first class. I’m sure we’ll be in contact over the coming months and hopefully, we’ll work together again on other projects in the future.
St Adrian’s Primary School
A very prompt & courteous service, everyone we have had dealings with have been very friendly, helpful and professional, thank you.
Facilities Manager at St Margaret’s School
As a school, it is our absolute priority to ensure the security of everyone who works and learns here. In addition for St Margaret’s, the historical significance of the school as a prominent educational establishment is essential to protect and it is our responsibility to make sure it is cared for at every level. “Amthal Fire & Security certainly did its homework in taking the time to survey the site and came up with a flexible maintenance programme that achieves all these objectives on an ongoing basis. They are always available and offer good advice on anything security or fire safety related, to the extent that we consider them our true security partners. We are continually looking at ways to grow our relationship and enhance our security across the school’s 74 acre site.
NHS Trust
We are a very large NHS Trust and have used Amthal for eight years now to provide our CCTV and Access Control requirements completing installations and maintenance support to all security equipment installed across the trust. Their response times to requests are extremely prompt, and where required will attend within hours to our clinical areas, we rarely have to wait more than 24 hours for any ‘non-urgent’ requests. The standard of work is extremely high and the engineering staff who undertake the installations do so with care and professionalism, often having to undertake installations in ‘live’ clinical areas where greater consideration towards staff and patients has to be paramount. I reviewed a number of Security Companies profiles prior to selecting Amthal as our security provider, the main over-riding consideration in retaining Amthal for this amount of time is the standard of service that the company provide, which for us has been extremely high.
Property Services Project Manager, Interserve Construction
Amthal worked with Interserve during the pre-construction phase to advise the client on the alterations to reduce costs and provide an efficient system for management of the building. They have provided a high level of workmanship and have been very helpful in providing advice and solutions where issues have occurred. We have found them to be a good value for money subcontractor and would be happy to employ them on future projects.
Town Clerk, Harpenden Town Council
Harpenden Town Hall aims to deliver a ‘one stop shop’ information point for the wealth of services available in our community. With this in mind it is essential our offices present a welcoming environment for all visitors, but this must be created without compromising on high quality protection for all our staff on site. Here is where having Amthal, as a local security support has made all the difference. Not only do they understand our working environment, but also are always on call to respond quickly to maintain our existing access control system within the building and offer advice on new solutions such as the new door entry system, that can help us efficiently enhance our service offering to the community.
Site Manager, Overbury
I must say I have been completely impressed with the way your company operates and totally impressed by your engineers and their attitude towards work. I will most defiantly be asking that we work together on forthcoming projects.
Chief Inspector, Essex Police
Essex Police would like to thank you and your company for your invaluable assistance in obtaining the CCTV footage from The Chequers Public House at Woolmer Green during our investigation into the sad death of two young men tragically killed in a Road Traffic Collision near to that establishment in November 2012. During the investigation we have called upon your company to assist us with downloading of the CCTV on several occasions, this has always been undertaken professionally and within a short time scale. Please accept my sincere thanks; I hope our demands have not inconvenienced you or your staff.
NHS Trust
We are a very large NHS Trust and have used Amthal for eight years now to provide our CCTV and Access Control requirements completing installations and maintenance support to all security equipment installed across the trust. Their response times to requests are extremely prompt, and where required will attend within hours to our clinical areas, we rarely have to wait more than 24 hours for any ‘non-urgent’ requests. The standard of work is extremely high and the engineering staff who undertake the installations do so with care and professionalism, often having to undertake installations in ‘live’ clinical areas where greater consideration towards staff and patients has to be paramount. I reviewed a number of Security Companies profiles prior to selecting Amthal as our security provider, the main over-riding consideration in retaining Amthal for this amount of time is the standard of service that the company provide, which for us has been extremely high.
Property Services Project Manager, Interserve Construction
Amthal worked with Interserve during the pre-construction phase to advise the client on the alterations to reduce costs and provide an efficient system for management of the building. They have provided a high level of workmanship and have been very helpful in providing advice and solutions where issues have occurred. We have found them to be a good value for money subcontractor and would be happy to employ them on future projects.
Site Manager, Overbury
I must say I have been completely impressed with the way your company operates and totally impressed by your engineers and their attitude towards work. I will most defiantly be asking that we work together on forthcoming projects.
P Genevois, Facilities Manager
Access Group has been recognised as one of the top five fastest growing UK software developers in the Sunday Times Buyout Track 100. At present we have an in-house team of over 800 employees, supported by a dedicated management team, and spread over 16 locations. As well as ensuring the safety and security of all staff and visitors, from an ISO compliance perspective, we have to be able to provide an audit trail of who is at each of our offices, and know exactly where they have been with relation to management and security of We turned to Amthal who has been our fire and security partner of choice for a number of years. The team seamlessly implemented an access control solution throughout our UK wide offices enabling staff and visitors to carry ID cards at all times, whilst back at base and at customer sites. This means we can now reassure customers and clients that ISO recommendations have been accurately followed.
M Brown, Exec Director (Business Enterprise Hub)
We knew we had complex requirements with each individual business needing its own alarm and access system, alongside the security needs of the building itself. Amthal made it their priority to understand this and design a bespoke system that ensured all units could be separately secured in one solution. Ever since the installation, Amthal has stayed in regular communication to deliver an exceptional service, offering maintenance as necessary, alongside advice on how to keep the building and its users safe and secure. For us, it is an added bonus that they are a local company and dedicated member of the Chamber of Commerce as it supports our ethos to develop the business community in St Albans.
I Pulsford, JPA
Amthal is a company that is a true breath of fresh air in their attentiveness to their customers. They listen to exact requirements and invest in the right research and team to turn the individual needs of a company into a bespoke reality. For both the security and fire safety solutions, installation was completed with the engineers proving to be polite and courteous whilst going out of their way to reduce disruption as much as possible. With Amthal on board, we have total peace of mind our offices are safe and secure and we would have no hesitation in recommending them, and commending their great customer service.
G Hellier MBE
We were looking for an advanced solution for our factory premises. Amthal Security successfully assessed our requirement and came up with an imaginative solution that worked for me and my staff members.
A Wilks
I am writing to let you know how pleased I’ve been with the work you did for my business. Not only did your company do exactly what you promised, but your engineers were efficient and professional. Six months have gone by and I’m pleased to say that we’ve had absolutely no problems whatsoever! Long may it continue!!
Director, Avenir Telecom
Morning Paul, Just thought I’d like you to know that we had problems with our alarm last night and John came down to the site with me to fix the problem. He was fantastic, please pass on my thanks, he was a star!
Contact Us…
For complete and compliant fire protection services, including advice on choosing the right emergency voice communication system for your premises, contact Amthal. With over 20 years of providing expert fire protection, we provide a complete installation and maintenance service for ongoing compliance.
EMAIL: info@amthal.co.uk
PHONE: 0800 093 7818