Is a Visual Alarm Needed in Your Workplace?

When planning your workplace fire safety system, sounders and bells are often the first things that come to mind. But what if someone can’t hear them?

Whether due to a hearing impairment, high background noise, or specific environmental conditions, audible alarms alone may not be enough to keep everyone safe. That’s where visual alarms, also known as visual warning devices (VWDs) or beacons, come in.

In this guide, we’ll explore when visual fire alarms are required in the workplace, what UK legislation and standards say, and how to assess your legal and moral responsibilities as an employer.

What Is a Visual Alarm?

A visual alarm is a device that uses a flashing light, typically a strobe or LED beacon, to alert people that the fire alarm has been activated. These are commonly installed in:

• Areas where hearing protection is used (e.g. workshops, factories)

• High-noise environments (e.g. plant rooms, nightclubs)

• Places used by people who are deaf or hard of hearing

• Toilets, changing rooms, or enclosed spaces where audible alarms may be missed

Visual alarms may be standalone devices or combined sounder-beacons, depending on the space and level of risk.

What Does the Law Say?

In the UK, the key legal duties relating to visual alarms are found in:

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

This legislation requires the Responsible Person (usually the employer or building operator) to:

• Take general fire precautions to ensure safety

• Provide means of warning in the event of fire

• Ensure those with disabilities or sensory impairments are not put at a disadvantage

The Equality Act 2010

Employers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people, including those with hearing loss. That may include providing visual alarms where necessary.

BS 5839-1:2017 (Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems for Non-Domestic Premises)

This British Standard outlines best practices for visual alarm placement and performance. It recommends visual alarms in:

• Areas where audible signals may not be heard

• Sanitary accommodation (e.g. accessible toilets)

• Areas specifically for hearing-impaired users

 

 

Who Might Need Visual Alarms?

Visual alarms should be considered if your workplace includes:

• Deaf or hard-of-hearing staff or visitors

• Noisy environments with machinery or loud background noise

• Lone workers in isolated or enclosed areas

• Accessible toilets (a legal requirement for compliance)

• Areas with music, night-time lighting, or high footfall, like bars or clubs

Even if no one on your current team has a hearing impairment, your fire strategy should be inclusive and account for future staff, visitors, and customers.

Where Should Visual Alarms Be Installed?

Locations that typically require visual alarms include:

• Accessible toilets and changing rooms

• Plant rooms, workshops, and server rooms

• Nightclubs, music venues, and gyms

• Reception desks in noisy lobbies

• Staff rooms or offices where lone working occurs

Under BS 5839-1, visual alarms should be:

• Installed in line with escape routes

• Clearly visible from all relevant parts of the room

• Used in combination with audible signals unless hearing loss is known

In some cases, personal devices, such as vibrating pagers or pillow pads, may be used for employees with individual needs, especially in sleeping accommodations or residential settings.

Visual Alarms in Practice: Example Scenarios

How to Carry Out a Fire Alarm Accessibility Review

As the Responsible Person, you should:

1. Assess the building for areas where alarms may not be heard clearly

2. Identify users with hearing loss or additional needs (confidentially and sensitively)

3. Review the sound levels and background noise in each zone

4. Consult BS 5839-1 and other relevant standards

5. Keep records of the review and any actions taken

If you’re unsure, a competent fire alarm engineer or fire risk assessor can carry out a site survey and recommend compliant solutions.

Final Thoughts

Not every building needs visual fire alarms in every room, but some areas absolutely must have them to stay compliant and protect lives.

As an employer, you have a duty to:

• Ensure everyone can be alerted in a fire, regardless of hearing ability

• Make reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act

• Follow best practice under BS 5839-1

Ultimately, visual alarms are about more than ticking boxes; they’re about ensuring no one is left behind in an emergency.

For expert advice on fire protection and prevention measures, contact Martyn Young Fireproofing Consultancy today on 07585 896648