Disabled Refuge Systems

Disabled refuge alarm systems and disabled toilet alarm systems play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of individuals in various locations throughout your site.

Suitable for all commercial premises – including offices, retail spaces, educational buildings and recreational environments – our disabled refuge systems enable clear two-way communication between refuge points and the central control panel during an incident.

At Octopus Safeguard, we supply and install British designed and manufactured technologies from Baldwin Boxall, which lead the way in safety, innovation, and reliability. Our engineers service locations in Essex, Suffolk, and the surrounding areas.

Speak to us today to find out more and to discuss and obtain a quotation for your disabled refuge system requirements.

Product sourcing

Supply and design

Full installation

Testing & commissioning

Ongoing maintenance

Emergency repairs

Why do you need a refuge alarm system and/or disabled toilet alarm system?

All non-domestic buildings with disabled toilets and those with more than one storey must provide safe evacuation procedures for all occupants.

A disabled refuge system is a crucial part of this responsibility. It provides a designated safe area (typically a fire-resistant space near escape routes) where individuals who cannot use stairs during an emergency can wait for assistance. These areas are equipped with a two-way communication system that allows building management or emergency services to stay in contact with those inside, offering reassurance while they wait for a coordinated rescue.

Installing a compliant disabled refuge system will ensure your building meets the requirements of UK fire safety and building regulations, including the Equality Act 2010, BS 5839-9, and Building Regulations Approved Document B. Compliance demonstrates that your business has made reasonable provisions for all individuals’ safety, reducing liability and ensuring inclusivity within the workplace.

If you don’t install or maintain a compliant system, the consequences can be serious. In the event of a fire or emergency, people with mobility impairments may be left without a safe means of communication or evacuation, which will put their lives at risk. In addition, non-compliance can lead to enforcement action by local authorities or the Fire and Rescue Service, resulting in fines, prosecution, or closure of the premises.

Baldwin Boxall’s Disabled Toilet and Emergency Assistance Alarm systems are designed to enhance safety and accessibility. They are a vital addition to disabled toilet, offering the communication means for rapid assistance during emergencies.

When someone using a disabled toilet requires emergency assistance, such as after a fall, they can activate the alarm, which is instantly relayed to a monitored designated central control unit, typically located in a reception or security control office. The appropriate personnel can then be directed to assist the individual.

Why choose Octopus Safeguard?

Specialist expertise

Rely on us to produce bespoke systems that meet all your compliance requirements.

Integrated solutions

Link your refuge alarm system to your wider security network for maximum effectiveness.

Compliant installations

Systems adhere to the Equality Act 2010 & BS 5839-9 and are Building Regulations approved.

Refuge Systems FAQs

What is a disabled refuge and a disabled toilet system, and why is it important?

A disabled refuge system provides a safe, two-way communication point for individuals who cannot easily use the stairs during an emergency evacuation. It allows people with mobility challenges to wait safely in a designated refuge area while maintaining direct contact with emergency personnel. This system is essential for ensuring compliance with building safety regulations and providing a genuinely inclusive evacuation plan.

A disabled toilet and emergency assistance alarm system provides a safe and if required a two-way communication point for individuals requiring emergency assistance whilst using a disabled toilet.

Who is legally required to have a disabled refuge and a disabled toilet system?

How does a disabled refuge system work?

Each refuge point includes a wall-mounted intercom unit that connects directly to a central control panel, typically located at the main reception or security control office. In an emergency, someone in the refuge area can press a button to instantly speak with emergency staff, ensuring they receive updates and reassurance while awaiting evacuation assistance.

Similarly, someone using a disabled toilet who requires assistance can alert emergency staff by pulling a pull cord which connects directly to a central control panel, typically located at the main reception or security control office.