BSIA configures installer toolkit in bid to ‘beat the big switch-off’

Since the initial announcement by Openreach in 2017 relating to the PSTN switch-off, the BSIA has been engaging with its members to ensure that they’re fully aware and prepared for the final upgrade deadline of December 2025.

While many companies have engaged in discussions with their end users, and alarm signalling upgrades are indeed being initiated, it’s estimated that circa 1,000,000-plus PSTN-connected alarm systems in the UK have not yet transitioned. It’s likely that many of these systems are managed by end users who may not even be aware that changes need to be made, or otherwise don’t appreciate the seriousness of the deadline.

Campaign theme

Given that the phrase ‘All-IP’ may not mean much to many beyond those operating in the security industry, the BSIA – working in conjunction with Openreach and supported by the National Security Inspectorate and the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board – has created a campaign theme. Entitled ‘Beat the Big Switch-Off’, the campaign is designed to encourage end users to take the deadline seriously.

For its part, the campaign toolkit includes letter templates and flyers that encompass FAQs covering the concerns and queries which those still using PSTN infrastructures may have, balancing useful information with the consequences of what may happen if the transition isn’t made before the scheduled time.

Eliminating disruption and risk

David Wilkinson, director of technical services at the BSIA, explained: “Through the efforts of the Trade Association and its members, feedback suggests that end users still don’t fully understand the impact or are in some cases dismissing the transition to All-IP as something that will not affect them.”

Wilkinson continued: “We are encouraging our members and practitioners in the wider industry to assist with this roll-out of important information. We hope the toolkit will play a significant role in achieving our aim. End users who depend on alarm systems and don’t transition in time must be aware that this has the potential to cause serious disruption and create risks, not only in the supply chain, but in the daily use of these systems.”

*The toolkit will be rolled out to the industry and can be downloaded from the BSIA’s All-IP pages