Induction loops systems are a legal requirement in aiding the hard of hearing.
Phoenix Technologies are able to bring your establishment inline with current
disability discrimination legislation through our supply and installation service.
To purchase an
induction loops kit
please view our
online catalogue.
Having supplied and installed induction loops to
leading institutions, we can take care of all your needs. Our engineers are able to integrate
systems with your existing PA or sound system.
Need an induction loop system? Call AVM Home & Leisure Division 020 7248 4770
or
email us for free impartial advice.
Why are Induction Loop Systems required?
British Standard BS8300 is the new code of practice for the design of new buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people. The standard states that "a hearing enhancement system, using induction loop systems, infrared or radio transmission, should be installed in rooms and spaces used for meeting, lectures, classes, performances, spectator sports or films, and used at service and reception counters where the background noise is high or where glazed screens are used" (9.3.2). It pinpoints the following areas for consideration: seated waiting areas; ticket sales and information points; fitness suites and exercise studios; churches; crematoria and cemetery chapels, educational, cultural and scientific buildings.
Service providers, i.e., companies or organisations offering goods, facilities and services to the general public, must make 'reasonable' adjustments to ensure that they do not unlawfully discriminate against disabled people.
Under the Act, 'reasonable adjustments' include the provision of various auxiliary aids, including temporary induction loop systems, to enable a deaf or hard of hearing person to access goods, facilities or services available to the general public.
At present, service providers do not need to make any permanent adjustments to their buildings. This, however, is about to change. From October 2004, service providers will be required to install permanent induction loop systems and infrared systems where it is impossible or unreasonably difficult for a deaf or hard of hearing person to make use of a service.
Service providers who fail to make adequate provision for people with hearing disabilities face prosecution. Furthermore, it is not enough to simply install an induction loop system - it must be properly maintained and staff must know how to use it. (DDA, Auxiliary aids and services 5.13).
Does my establishment require an Induction Loop Installation?
Some examples of service providers covered under the Act are:
- Telecommunications and broadcasting organisations
- Public utility companies, such as gas, electricity and water suppliers
- Leisure centres, football stadia, national parks and health clubs
- Bus and railway stations, airports and travel agents
- Shops, hairdressers, post offices, banks and building societies
- Hotels, restaurants, cinemas, theatres and pubs
- Hospitals, waiting rooms, clinics
- Solicitors' offices, courts, churches and mosques
What can Phoenix Technologies provide for my establishment?
Pheonix Technologies offer a full induction loop system installation service. We are able
to supply and install new systems, or we can upgrade or modify your current PA system
or sound system to work with the Induction Loop System.
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