ISO 7240-16:2007

Overview

ISO 7240-16:2007 - Fire detection and alarm systems: Part 16 - Sound system control and indicating equipment specifies requirements, test methods and performance criteria for sound system control and indicating equipment (s.s.c.i.e.) used as part of a sound system for emergency purposes (s.s.e.p.). The standard covers equipment intended to broadcast voice emergency announcements, alert and evacuate signals (including references to ISO 7731 and ISO 8201), and to support rapid, orderly evacuation of occupants in indoor and outdoor areas. It applies to voice-based and non-voice warning broadcasts but does not apply to systems that use only sounders or bells.

Key Topics

• Functional scope: Reception, processing and distribution of alarm signals; voice-alarm condition management; fault and disabled conditions; optional test and manual modes.
• Performance and testing: Specified test methods and performance criteria for audio performance (frequency response, signal-to-noise ratio), output power, EMC immunity, environmental durability (cold, damp heat, vibration, impact) and supply voltage variation.
• Design and documentation: Mechanical, electrical and software design requirements; message storage; integrity of transmission paths; accessibility and visibility of indications and controls; marking and user documentation.
• Indications and controls: Requirements for displays (alphanumeric and LED indicators), audible warnings, emergency microphone interfaces, access levels and optional functions such as phased evacuation, delay before broadcast, and redundant amplifiers.
• Software-controlled systems: Additional provisions for software design, documentation, program monitoring, memory storage and monitoring of memory contents.

Applications

ISO 7240-16:2007 is used where regulated emergency voice or alarm broadcasts are required, including:

• Large commercial buildings, airports, rail and transit hubs
• Stadiums, arenas and public assembly spaces
• Industrial facilities and campuses with zoned evacuation needs
• Integrated fire alarm and public address systems for life-safety announcements

Who uses the standard:

• Manufacturers of s.s.c.i.e., voice alarm systems and emergency PA equipment
• System designers and integrators specifying audio performance, reliability and interfaces
• Installers and testing laboratories performing compliance and performance tests
• Building owners, facility managers and regulators ensuring audibility, intelligibility and code compliance

Related Standards

• ISO 7240‑1 (General and definitions)
• ISO 7240‑19 (Overall s.s.e.p. requirements, especially audibility and intelligibility)
• ISO 7731 (Alert signals)
• ISO 8201 (Evacuate signals)
• Replaces/updates aspects of IEC 60849:1998

For compliance, manufacturers and specifiers should apply ISO 7240-16 together with ISO 7240-19, national codes and local regulations that may mandate specific optional functions or performance levels.