The different spaces within a building require specific solutions for public address, signage, and accessibility. Each area — whether an accessible restroom, a refuge zone, or a multipurpose room — has its own characteristics, needs, and technical requirements that must be addressed through appropriate installations in compliance with regulations.
This section describes the main types of spaces and the elements that should be integrated into each one: call systems, adapted loudspeakers, acoustic signage, push buttons, and evacuation points, among other key resources. The goal is to ensure safety, effective communication, and inclusion throughout the built environment.
A well-equipped space not only complies with the law — it also cares for the people who use it.
Accessible bathroom
An accessible bathroom is a space designed to allow autonomous and safe use by people with reduced mobility. According to the CTE DB-SUA and Royal Decree 173/2010, public-use buildings must provide accessible toilets in public areas, complying with a series of technical and functional requirements.
Among these, the installation of an emergency call system is required, allowing the user to request assistance when needed. The regulations state that this system must include:
- Red pull cord with two bracelets: one positioned between 80 and 110 cm in height, and another 10 cm from the floor.
- Audible and/or visual signal detectable from a control point or frequently used area.
- Simple and accessible activation, even from the floor, in case of a fall or emergency.
As a company specialized in intercom systems, our solutions ensure compliance with these regulatory requirements, guaranteeing safety, accessibility, and peace of mind for users in public spaces.
Refuge area
A refuge area is a protected space within a building, intended for people with reduced mobility to wait for assistance in case of emergency when full and immediate evacuation is not possible.
According to CTE DB-SI, especially in its Annex A, these spaces must be equipped with communication systems that allow occupants to contact emergency services or evacuation personnel, with special attention to the needs of people with disabilities.
The regulations specify that such communication must include:
- Accessible intercom devices, such as emergency phones, call buttons, or call panels.
- Audible and visual indicators showing the system status (call in progress, active communication, etc.).
- Direct connection to an operational control post, if the building has permanent surveillance during operating hours.
This requirement applies to public buildings such as hospitals, hotels, shopping centres, administrative buildings, or any facility with vertical evacuation, except for Residential Housing use.
As a company specialized in intercom systems, this regulatory requirement makes our solutions an essential component for complying with the CTE and ensuring inclusive safety in modern buildings.
Accessible call point
An accessible call point allows any person to request assistance in areas such as platforms, elevators, corridors, or waiting rooms.
Regulations require:
- Accessible route from the public thoroughfare or main entrance.
- Mandatory intercom, with clear and accessible two-way communication.
- Mandatory induction loop, to ensure audibility in noisy environments.
- Audible and visual indicators showing system status (call in progress, active communication).
- Identification signage indicating its function and accessibility.
Our solutions help meet these requirements through robust, visible, accessible devices compatible with centralized control systems.
Accessible service point
An accessible call point allows any person to request assistance in areas such as platforms, elevators, corridors, or waiting rooms.
Regulations require:
- Accessible route from the public thoroughfare or main entrance.
- Mandatory intercom, with clear and accessible two-way communication.
- Mandatory induction loop, to ensure audibility in noisy environments.
- Audible and visual indicators showing system status (call in progress, active communication).
- Identification signage indicating its function and accessibility.
Our solutions help meet these requirements through robust, visible, accessible devices compatible with centralized control systems.
Public assembly premises (
The term “public assembly” ("pública concurrencia") refers to venues, spaces, or buildings open to the general public, where a significant number of people are expected to be present simultaneously. This classification entails specific requirements regarding safety, evacuation, fire protection, and electrical installations, depending on the use and occupancy of the premises.
According to the Low Voltage Electrotechnical Regulation (REBT) and the Technical Building Code (CTE), the following are considered public assembly premises:
- By use: cinemas, theatres, auditoriums, nightclubs, bars, restaurants, museums, hospitals, stations, shopping centres, etc.
- By occupancy: premises with an expected occupancy of more than 50 people, calculated as 1 person per 0.8 m² of usable space
Public assembly premises must comply with:
- Reinforced electrical installations, with surge protection and regular inspections.
- Evacuation and signage systems adapted to high occupancy levels.
- Accessibility and communication measures, such as intercoms, induction loops, or call systems in key areas.
Public address systems are mandatory in public assembly premises when occupancy exceeds 500 people or the built area exceeds 500 m². They must be used for voice evacuation, not just ambient sound, and be certified according to the EN 54 standard. The regulation also applies if an evacuation route passes through the area, even if other sectors do not require it.
