BS EN 54-16:2008 outlines requirements for voice alarm control and indicating equipment (VACIE), focusing on:
- Indications: Clear visual indicators for quiescent, voice alarm, fault warning, and disablement states.
- Voice alarm condition: The VACIE must reliably receive and process alarm signals from the control and indicating equipment (CIE) without loss of control in case of communication failure.
- Fault warning condition: Simultaneous recognition and indication of all faults within 100 seconds, including short circuits, transmission interruptions, earth faults, amplifier failures, and protective device operation.
- Disablement condition (optional): Visual indication of any disabled zone, not suppressed during voice alarm activation.
- Manual control (optional): The ability to manually activate voice alarms for specific zones or groups without affecting other zones.
- Indicator colours: Red for voice alarm, yellow for faults and disablement, green for VACIE power status.
- Software design: Modular structure, non-volatile memory for storing pre-recorded messages and software, version identification, and site-specific data configuration.
- Marking: Compliance with EN 54-16, manufacturer identification, type number, and other relevant information.
- Testing: Comprehensive testing procedures covering various aspects, including functionality, audio performance, environmental endurance, and electromagnetic compatibility.
The standard aims to ensure the reliability, functionality, and safety of voice alarm systems by setting rigorous requirements for the control and indicating equipment.
