Beacon Type B Disabled Refuge Outstation - Brushed Stainless Steel

The Beacon Type B is a disabled refuge outstation designed for emergency voice communication (EVC) systems in stairwells, lobbies and designated refuge areas within multi-storey buildings. The unit features a brushed stainless steel faceplate with a single green illuminated call/cancel button, a built-in speaker grille for duplex audio, and LED call status indication. The outstation connects to a compatible EVC controller or fire alarm panel via a two-wire circuit, allowing a person awaiting assistance to initiate a handsfree two-way voice call to a monitoring station or building control room.

Designed for installation in commercial, educational, healthcare and residential buildings where disabled refuge points are required under Building Regulations Approved Document B, the outstation mounts flush or surface depending on the back box used. A standard 2-gang UK back box (not included) is required for flush mounting, while surface mounting uses an additional external box. The high-volume ringer ensures incoming calls are audible in noisy stairwells, and the duplex audio allows simultaneous talk and listen without the need to press-to-talk, which is critical in emergency situations where a user may have limited mobility or dexterity.

The unit is fully compliant with BS5839-9:2021, the British Standard for design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems in buildings. The brushed stainless steel faceplate resists corrosion in high-traffic areas and is cleanable with standard commercial surface wipes. The outstation measures 180mm x 110mm x 30mm, fitting the footprint of a standard 2-gang UK electrical accessory plate, and weighs 180g once installed. The green bezel around the call/cancel button provides high-contrast visibility for users with impaired vision.

Product Specification Sheet

Product Manual

What back box is needed for installation?

The Beacon Type B requires a standard UK 2-gang back box for flush mounting (not included). The back box depth should be at least 35mm to accommodate wiring. For surface mounting, an additional surface-mount box is required.

Is this compliant with current Building Regulations?

Yes. The unit is fully compliant with BS5839-9:2021, the current British Standard for emergency voice communication systems in buildings. It meets the requirements for Type B outstations in disabled refuge points as specified in Approved Document B.

Does it work standalone or need a controller?

The outstation requires connection to a compatible EVC controller or fire alarm panel with EVC capability. It does not operate as a standalone device. The controller manages the two-way audio connection, call routing and monitoring.

Can multiple outstations be connected to one system?

Yes. Multiple Beacon Type B outstations can be wired to the same EVC controller, allowing refuge points on different floors or areas to connect to a single monitoring position. The controller identifies which outstation is calling and routes the audio accordingly.