A Premises Information Box, often abbreviated as a PIB, has become an industry standard for providing quick and easy access to critical information in emergencies. The importance of well-organised and up-to-date premises information in an emergency situation cannot be overstated. But why is a PIB so essential, and why should you choose a Gerda PIB? We’ll delve into these very pertinent questions here.

What is a Premises Information Box (PIB)?

A Premises Information Box is a secure, wall-mounted enclosure designed to securely store critical information about a building’s layout, services, and potential hazards. This information is crucial for emergency services responding to incidents, helping them make informed decisions quickly and safely.

Is there a difference between a PIB and a Secure Information Box?

In essence, no. Whether referred to as a Premises Information Box or a Secure Information Box, the purpose remains the same: to provide a protected space for vital data about a building. Whatever name may be used to describe these installations, the importance of their function doesn’t change, and nor does the importance of Its role in ensuring the safety and security of buildings and their occupants.

Does Your Building Need a PIB By Law?

The Fire Safety (England) Regulations of 2022 have ushered in a new era of safety measures, particularly for high-rise residential buildings.

For a high-rise building (defined as any existing flat block with a top story exceeding 18m or comprising more than six storeys, or any new flat block with a top story over 11m above ground level), it has now become a legal mandate to have a secure Premises Information Box in place, effective from the 23rd of January, 2023 The Gerda PIB is the original secure information box, designed to house essential fire and safety information, such as building plans, gas and electricity isolation points, and details of any hazardous substances that may be present on-site. Thus, every building to which the public has access – including residential blocks, sleeping accommodation, including student accommodation – must have a PIB, as stipulated by law. This could also include educational institutions and healthcare facilities.

How a Premises Information Box Helps Firefighters

When a fire breaks out, every second counts. The faster the fire service can access vital information during the ‘golden hour‘, the quicker and safer their response will be.. A Gerda PIB allows fire officers to quickly access key site information, reducing the time taken to develop (and then enact) an effective firefighting strategy for the situation. They also ensure that those most in need of support are fully considered in the decisions, and plans for managing an incident and risks to buildings are also mitigated.

Maintaining Your Premises Information Box

Your Premises Information Box should not only be regularly updated but also maintained in good physical condition. The box should be easily identifiable, accessible, and in a state that ensures the information inside is safe and secure at all times.

Maintaining your Premises Information Box is as crucial as having one. Outdated or incorrect information can lead to inefficiencies in the response of the fire service, risking lives and assets. Therefore, the law requires the PIB contents to be regularly reviewed and updated.

At Gerda, we can assist with updating your premises information as we provide a comprehensive PIB content management service: for Emergency Response Plans. Our team of experts will ensure your PIB is always up-to-date, compliant, and ready for use in an emergency.

Premises Information Box Specifications

At Gerda Security, we pride ourselves on creating a Premises Information Box that meets and exceeds industry standards. The Gerda PIB is a testament to this dedication, designed to  provide optimal protection for the important documents stored inside it.

Robust Material

Crafted from high quality and robust materials, Gerda PIBs are truly built to last. Recognizing that these premise information boxes may face harsh environmental conditions, we’ve engineered them to resist both physical damage and the elements, thereby safeguarding the critical information they house.

Security Features

The safety of a Gerda Premises Information Box stands at the forefront of our design approach. Our PIBs are Secured by Design certified and equipped with high-security locks, deterring unauthorised access. Tamper-resistant by design, our boxes provide assurance that the documents and information housed within them remains secure.

Easy Access

While we prioritise security, we also understand the importance of accessibility. Our PIBs incorporate GSP One Key® System technology, enabling swift access by authorised personnel. The majority of Fire & Rescue Services nationwide carry the Gerda key, and we notify the relevant local authorities and services when a Gerda PIB is installed. This ensures that everyone who should know about it is aware that the PIB is there, and that the vital information inside it can be accessed promptly during emergencies.

Why Choose a Gerda Premises Information Box?

Choosing a Gerda Premises Information Box means choosing a product that is trusted by industry professionals and emergency services alike. A Gerda PIB is an essential tool for any building, providing immediate access to critical information in emergencies. There may be no significant difference between a PIB and a secure information box, but there is a difference in quality when you choose a Gerda PIB. Trust Gerda Security to provide a PIB designed to the highest specifications, providing peace of mind and contributing to the safety of your premises.