Gerda Security has created the Premises Information Box (PIB) to help keep buildings safe from fires. This box stores important building information and operational plans that firefighters can use during emergencies. It helps them save lives and protect property more easily. We’ve worked hard to make our PIB meet the needs of modern buildings and emergency teams.

Key Features of Gerda PIB

• Secure storage for critical information
• Secured by Design-approved durable design
• Immediate access for emergency responders
• Compliant with fire safety regulations
• Works 24/7 without power or internet

Premises Information Box Features

Our Premises Information Box has many features that make it great for building safety. This product was developed and designed by Gerda Security with firefighters for firefighters:

• Secure storage for important building information
• Tough design that can handle bad weather and vandalism
• Immediate access for 98% of FRS nationwide, who carry the GSP One Key System
• Follows requirements of the Fire Safety (England) 2022 Regulations
• Luminescent signage on the standard PIB for increased visibility

The Gerda PIB works all the time, even if the power goes out or the internet stops working. We’ve tested it to make sure it’s reliable in emergencies. Learn more about our Premise Information Boxes and how they can make your building safer.

What’s Inside the Gerda PIB

All PIBs should contain an Emergency Response Pack (ERP), which Gerda Security can help you to design as a separate service. An ERP contains important operational information, in line with the NFCC FIA Code of Practice:

• Log book: Records events related to the PIB system (e.g., emergencies, updates).
• Off The Run notice: Lists unavailable firefighting installations and unresolved fire safety issues.
• Fire & Rescue Service summary: Key incident information for responders.
• Orientation plan: Shows building location, surrounding buildings, roads, and water supplies.
• Building layout plan: Includes internal layout and up-to-date floor plans.
• Water supply plan: Shows hydrants, emergency supplies, and wet riser locations.
• Firefighting facilities plan: Includes lifts and other firefighting/relevant rescue details.
• Resident information: Lists those with mobility, cognitive, or sensory impairments.
• Fire safety issues: Highlights compartmentation, external walls, or other risks.
• Evacuation strategy: Describes approach (e.g., stay put, simultaneous evacuation).

The plans are printed in an A3 laminated format, so firefighters can read them easily, even with gloves on. We use special symbols and colours to make the plans easy to understand quickly. It’s important to update the ERP regularly to keep it accurate.

Keeping the PIB Safe

We’ve made our PIBs very secure to protect the important information inside. Here are some of the Premises Information Box features that improve its security:

• Secure key management technology utilising the GSP One Key Locking System
• Third party certified protection
• Tested to security standard STS205 BR2 and is Secured by Design

These security features make sure only the right people can open the PIB. We keep checking and improving our security to stay ahead of new threats. Learn more about our secure information boxes and PIBs to see how we keep information safe but easy to access in emergencies.

Where to Put the PIB

Putting the Gerda PIB in the right place is important. If you’re unsure, we advise speaking to your local FRS. We inform the FRS of new installations monthly, so you can be certain that they’ll be aware of its location before they’re needed on-site.

Following the Rules

The Gerda PIB follows all the fire safety rules. It helps building owners do what the law says they need to do. Our product:

• Follows the Fire Safety (England) 2022 Regulations
• Does what the Grenfell Tower Enquiry suggested
• Matches what the National Fire Chiefs Council recommends

By using a Gerda PIB, you’re making your building safer and compliant. Read about how we helped Canary Wharf Group to see how we’ve helped others follow the rules and be ready for emergencies.

How Building Managers Benefit

Using a Gerda PIB helps building managers in many ways:

• Better communication with firefighters, helping them respond faster
• Being more prepared for emergencies
• Making people in the building feel safer
• Showing you care about safety, which might lower insurance costs
• Making it easier to follow fire safety rules
• Working better with emergency teams

Our PIBs help you keep people and property safe, and make emergency responses smoother. The Gerda PIB gives building managers one reliable place for all the important information, making it easier to handle emergencies.

Taking Care of Your PIB

To keep your Gerda PIB working well, we recommend taking the following steps to maintain it:

• Regular checks of the locks and security features
• Updating information when things change in the building
• Replacing parts that are worn out or damaged
• Teaching building staff how to use and take care of the PIB
• Keeping records of any maintenance carried out

Our maintenance services keep your PIB ready for use at any time. We have different service plans to fit different buildings and needs. Learn more about what’s inside Gerda boxes and the information that is required to be stored there.

Conclusion

The Gerda PIB is an essential tool for enhancing building safety against fires. It consolidates all critical information for the Fire and Rescue Service, compliant with the NFCC / FIA Code of Practice. By providing the FRS with access to vital details, the Gerda PIB plays a pivotal role in safeguarding lives and property.

At Gerda Security, we continually innovate to improve fire safety solutions. Our team collaborates with industry-leading fire safety professionals, continually improving and creating new products to address the evolving challenges of fire safety and emergency response. Choosing Gerda Security means partnering with experts dedicated to creating safer environments for everyone.

Contact us today to learn more about how the Gerda PIB can enhance your building’s fire safety. Our team can assess your needs and recommend tailored solutions that ensure comprehensive protection and full compliance with relevant fire safety regulations.