What is BS 8604-1 - Social alarm systems about?
BS 8604 is a British Standard that discusses social alarm systems, that helps maintain integrity and performance of alarm and warning systems during an emergency.
BS 8604-1 is the first part in the multi-series that provides recommendations and guidance for the design, installation, configuration, commissioning, and maintenance of social alarm systems.
BS 8604-1 focuses not only on technology of alarm systems, but also on usability and risk management.
Note: BS 8604-1 does not apply to individual dispersed alarms with no shared infrastructure.
Who is BS 8604-1 - Social alarm systems for?
BS 8604-1 on social alarm systems is relevant to:
- Electrical architects
- System designers
- Private retirement developers
- Maintenance companies
- Equipment manufacturers
- Alarm Receiving Centres (design and provision)
- Service providers
- Telecommunications providers
- Housing associations
- Installers
- Local authorities
Why should you use BS 8604-1 - Social alarm systems?
A social alarm system provides facilities for alarm triggering, identification, signal transmission, alarm reception, logging, and, where applicable, two‑way speech communication. The customer requirements, design, installation, configuration, commissioning, handover, and maintenance of social alarm systems often involves many stakeholders, each of which has a specific interest in how the works are performed.
BS 8604-1 is intended to guide those stakeholders in the provision of a timely installation of a reliable and robust grouped living system, to serve the needs of the site(s) and its residents.
BS 8604-1 ensures that systems are connected using compliant, agreed, and tested communication methods, including the correct system, unit, and peripheral device identification.
BS 8604-1 is beneficial for optimizing the integrity and reliability of onsite and offsite communications in specialized grouped living environments.