Document ViOD00214/rev0/jk
Page 3 of 20
1.
Introduction
1.1
What is an Emergency Voice Communication System?
An Emergency Voice Communication System, or EVCS, is a system that allows voice communication in
either direction between a central control point and several other points throughout a building or
building complex, particularly in a fire or emergency. The control points, or outstations by which they
are more commonly referred, generally comprise of a Type A outstation, a Type B outstation, or a Type
C Combined Type outstation.
“Assist Call”
emergency assistance alarm systems can also be
incorporated into the EVCS.
EVCS is generally required in the following situations:
•
In any building or sports or similar venue where there are disabled people, or people who may
have difficulty negotiating the evacuation route.
•
In buildings with phased evacuation and/or firefighting lifts where it facilitates secure
communications for building managers, fire wardens, and attending fire officers.
•
At sports venues and similar complexes, where it will assist stewards in controlling the
evacuation of the area in an emergency.
The Lexicomm ViLX-228S Emergency Voice Communications System (EVCS) is designed to fully comply
with BS 5839-9:2021 for use as a Fire Telephone system, Disabled Refuge system or as a combined
system when both Fire Telephones and Disabled Refuge Points are required.
1.2
Suitability
Fire telephone systems are recommended for all public buildings and multi-story buildings over four
floors that require phased evacuation as per BS 9999:2017.
Disabled Refuge systems are required in buildings where the public or staff gains access to any floor
other than the ground floor using lifts. A refuge is a relatively safe waiting area provided at each storey
exit from each protected stairway.
Refuge areas are not just for wheelchair users, they are for anyone who may need assistance i.e.
s
omeone who’s immediate evacuation will impede the egress of others, a pregnant woman over 6
months term or persons with long term injuries, arthritis etc.
2.
Product Overview
The Lexicomm EVCS, or ViLX-228S, comprises of a Master Station and one or more outstations.
Additionally, the
“Assist Call” emergency assistance alarm
system can either be connected to the same
line as a Type B outstation or connected to a dedicated line. Neither the outstations nor
the “Assist
Ca
ll” emergency alarm
system require a separate power supply unit as each line is powered from the
Master Station. This has the additional benefit of each line being fully monitored and battery backed up.
The ViLX-228S Master Station has been designed for radial star topology. In most cases this will reduce
the cable requirements for all ring-based systems. The topology consists of spurs formed of 1 off two
core 1.5mm CSA cables (soft skin enhanced up to 500m per leg, MICC 200m per leg) to each
outstation.