EACIE Enclosure™: Evacuation Alert Systems for Fire and Rescue Operations

Evacuation Alert Control and Indicating Equipment (EACIE) is a system designed to assist the Fire and Rescue Service in evacuating occupants from a building during an emergency. It forms a part of an Evacuation Alert System (EAS), which is particularly relevant in high-rise residential buildings, care homes, heritage properties, schools, office blocks, warehouses and other complex structures where a phased or controlled evacuation may be necessary.

The EACIE Enclosure™ has been meticulously designed and developed in accordance with British Standard BS8629:2019+AI:2023, providing critical access to the Fire and Rescue Service through the GSP One Key® System. Secured by Design approved it adheres to a police preferred specification certified through third party certification body. It is designed to house evacuation alert control and indicating equipment, which plays a vital role in managing a fire incident and is solely used by the Fire and Rescue Service.

The system provides a means to alert, inform, and control the movement of people in a building during an emergency.

Components:

• Control Panel: The core of the EACIE, where firefighters can manually activate alerts for different zones or areas within a building. The panel is usually located in a secure, accessible place, such as a lobby or near a fire control room.
• Indicating Equipment: Visual and audible signals, such as alarms, lights, or voice alerts, are installed throughout the building to indicate evacuation instructions. These are designed to be easily understood by occupants.
• Zone Controls: Allows for different parts of the building to be evacuated in a controlled manner, according to the spread of fire or other emergency situations.

Operation:

During a fire or emergency, the Fire and Rescue Service accesses the EACIE system and selects the zones that need to be alerted. This selective activation helps manage evacuations safely and efficiently, especially in larger buildings where full evacuation might cause unnecessary risk or panic.

The equipment typically includes a user-friendly interface for firefighters, with clear instructions and indicators for easy operation under stress.

Specification

• Material: The EACIE Enclosure™ is constructed from steel.
• Hinge Positioning: The hinges are placed inside the box to prevent vandalism.
• Finish: The enclosure is powder-coated to RAL 9006 (Silver), enhancing its longevity and resistance to wear.
• Corrosion Resistance: Designed to resist corrosion for long-term use, the enclosure must be installed internally within a building, as specified by BS8629:2019+AI:2023.
• Specialist Signage: Fitted with durable EACIE signage, the metal signs are securely fastened to the door using riveted security screws, in compliance with BS5499-10.
• Door Handle and Locking System: The door handle is centrally attached on the right side, and the locking mechanism is operated by the GSP One Key® System. Customers have their own registered keys tailored to their requirements, while the Fire and Rescue Service accesses the enclosure with their One Key® System.
• Gerda 3D Dimensional Key®: The key's unique shape is trademarked and protected against unauthorised copying, forming part of a registered key system.

Performance and Certification

The EACIE Enclosure™ is manufactured by an ISO 9001:2015 certified company, ensuring adherence to high standards of quality management. It has been successfully tested to STS205 Issue 5 BR2 (Level II), meeting the requirements for burglary resistance of security cabinets and enclosures. The lock cylinder is certified to EN1303:2015, achieving top grades in all categories and is also approved by Secured by Design. Additionally, the EACIE Enclosure™ carries third-party certification through Certisecure: CS5115.

Security

• Key System: The unique key system is designed so that the Fire and Rescue Service can open EACIE Enclosures and other restricted access systems through their GSP One Key® System, while building owners or accountable persons have their own bespoke keys tailored to their emergency access requirements.
• Integral Cylinder: The enclosure features a patented integral cylinder with over 4 billion key combinations, providing enhanced security.
• Locking Mechanism: A 2-point locking mechanism (top and bottom) is included for additional security.
• Lock Features: The lock incorporates an anti-glue and anti-drill cylinder, using the Hard Soft System made of multiple metal composites.
• Tamper Resistance: The engineering of the enclosure prevents the cylinder from being extracted. The lock is strategically positioned on the right side to avoid attracting the attention of vandals and to restrict manoeuvring room in the event of an attack.
• Debris Protection: The keyhole is protected with a lock cover to prevent debris from entering and obstructing the lock.

Installation Service

Proper installation of the EACIE Enclosure™ is crucial for its effectiveness as part of an evacuation alert system. The EACIE Enclosure™ exemplifies the highest standards of security and accessibility for firefighter operational response, ensuring that vital evacuation alert equipment is readily accessible when needed most. Gerda Security Products provide a specialist installation service to guarantee that the EACIE Enclosure™ is installed correctly and in accordance with all relevant safety standards.

Visit GSP at Care Show 2024

The EACIE Enclosure™ establishes a new standard for emergency preparedness and building security. Developed in collaboration with firefighters, this dependable solution ensures that evacuation alert equipment is easily accessible to Fire and Rescue Services during emergencies. With its advanced security features, adherence to industry standards, and safe design, the EACIE Enclosure™ is an essential tool for protecting lives and property. The EACIE Enclosure™ ensures long-lasting performance and peace of mind for building owners and emergency services alike.

Visit GSP at Stand D60 at Care Show 2024 to speak with our knowledgeable team and see live demonstrations of the EACIE Enclosure™ and our range of fire doorsets.

For more information on how we can meet your specific requirements, get in touch with our team today:

Website: www.gerdasecurity.co.uk
Email: enquiries@gerdasecurity.co.uk
Telephone: 01638 711028