Monitored Alarm Systems & the PSTN Switch-Off

Why UK Businesses Must Review Their Monitored Alarm Systems Before 2027

Across the UK, businesses are preparing for the PSTN switch-off in 2027. As confirmed by BT Business, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is being retired and replaced with fully digital IP-based services as part of the nationwide move to Digital Voice.

For organisations relying on traditional monitored alarm systems that use analogue landlines to transmit signals, this change is more than a telecom upgrade — it is a critical moment to reassess how staff safety is delivered.

Many business alarm systems and traditional security alarm systems for business were installed years ago, designed around fixed infrastructure and PSTN signalling. As those landlines are phased out, companies are now reviewing whether to upgrade their alarm monitoring system or consider a more modern, cost-effective alternative.

Before committing to a like-for-like replacement, it is worth understanding how monitored safety devices have evolved — and how fixed-location alarm solutions can deliver the same protection with greater flexibility and lower long-term cost.

Why the PSTN Switch-Off Matters for Monitored Alarm Systems

The retirement of PSTN is part of a broader UK infrastructure transition. Ofcom’s Connected Nations 2024 report highlights the continued expansion of digital and IP-based networks across the country, reinforcing that analogue connectivity is being phased out in favour of more resilient, data-driven services.

Traditional monitored alarm systems typically use PSTN or dual-path signalling (PSTN plus GSM) to connect to a Monitoring Centre. When the analogue network is retired, any system dependent on landline transmission will need to migrate to IP or cellular communication.

While this can be achieved with communicator upgrades, it often involves:

• Hardware replacement
• Engineer call-outs
• Reconfiguration of broadband routers
• Continued maintenance contracts
• Ongoing monitoring fees

For many organisations, especially those using alarm systems for business reception areas or staff panic buttons, this creates an opportunity to pause and reconsider whether a full system upgrade is truly necessary.

The Limitations of Traditional Business Alarm Systems

Many security alarm systems for businesses were originally designed for intrusion detection rather than dedicated staff safety monitoring. Staff panic alarms were typically an additional feature layered on top of a broader security system.

As a result, businesses often maintain:

• Hardwired control panels
• Physical phone line connections
• Legacy signalling equipment
• Separate monitoring contracts

Even after upgrading the signalling equipment for Digital Voice compatibility, the underlying system remains largely unchanged capability.

If your primary requirement is a workplace panic alarm rather than a full intrusion detection network, continuing to invest in legacy infrastructure may not be the most cost-effective option.

This is where modern monitored safety devices offer a compelling alternative.

Traditional Monitored Alarm System vs Modern Monitored Safety Device

When reviewing monitored alarm systems for business use, it is helpful to compare them directly with modern fixed-location safety alarm devices.

Connectivity: Modern safety alarm devices operate similarly to a 4G alarm system, using multi-network 4G connectivity and Wi-Fi calling, eliminating landline dependency and removing reliance on PSTN infrastructure.

Installation: Conventional alarm systems require physical panels, wiring, and engineer visits. A fixed monitored safety device can typically be desk-mounted or wall-mounted with minimal disruption.

Monitoring Response: Traditional alarm monitoring often relies on signal codes transmitted to a Monitoring Centre. Modern devices open a live audio channel when activated, allowing trained operators to assess and escalate incidents in real time.

Flexibility: Hardwired panic buttons are fixed in place. A monitored safety device can operate in a fixed position or be redeployed if layouts or risk profiles change.

Cost Structure: When assessing the overall cost of a business alarm system, upgrading a legacy system often involves hardware costs, installation fees, and ongoing maintenance and software updates. A monitored safety device typically consolidates connectivity, monitoring, and device management and over the air software updates into a predictable service model.

For many businesses facing the PSTN switch-off, the comparison highlights that a direct upgrade is not the only option. Businesses should assess both their current alarm system monitoring arrangement and upgrade costs before committing to changes.

Real-World Scenarios: Fixed Monitored Safety Devices in Action

Modern safety alarm devices — often referred to as fixed position lone worker alarm devices — are increasingly being deployed in fixed locations across a range of sectors.

Reception Areas: In corporate offices, healthcare facilities, or local authority buildings, reception staff may be exposed to unpredictable situations. A discreet fixed safety alarm device provides rapid, monitored assistance with live audio verification.

Retail Store Checkouts: Retail staff managing checkout environments benefit from a discreet fixed panic alarm that connects directly to a 24/7 monitoring centre without reliance on a landline.

Headquarters of Vulnerable Service Providers: Charities, housing associations, and support organisations frequently manage emotionally sensitive interactions. Installing a monitored safety device in interview rooms or front-of-house areas ensures staff can discreetly raise an alarm if required.

Out-of-Hours Offices: Businesses with reduced staffing levels outside core hours can use a fixed safety alarm to protect employees working alone, without maintaining a full legacy monitored security system.

In each scenario, the device delivers the same essential function as a traditional monitored panic alarm — but through modern connectivity and infrastructure.

The Importance of 24/7 Accredited Monitoring

Regardless of device type, the effectiveness of any alarm monitoring system or commercial alarm monitoring arrangement depends on the quality of the monitoring centre behind it.

A professional 24/7 Monitoring Centre provides the foundation for reliable commercial alarm monitoring, including:

• Rapid alarm handling
• Trained operators conducting live audio assessment
• Quick escalation to emergency services where necessary
• Clear reporting and audit trails
• Compliance with recognised industry standards

When a monitored safety device is activated, operators can listen, assess, and respond in real time — rather than relying solely on signal codes.

For organisations reviewing their monitored alarm systems ahead of 2027, understanding the accreditation and operational standards of the monitoring centre is critical. The device is only one component; the response capability determines the outcome.

You can find out more about SoloProtect’s Accreditations.

Rethinking Your Alarm System Upgrade Before 2027

The PSTN switch-off is prompting businesses to review their plans for upgrading existing alarm systems. However, upgrading signalling equipment within a traditional monitored alarm system is not the only pathway forward.

If your core requirement is:

• A fixed workplace panic alarm
• A monitored staff safety system
• A discreet duress alert point

Then a modern, monitored safety device — originally developed for lone worker protection but equally effective in fixed environments — may provide the same level of 24/7 monitoring, often with reduced infrastructure and lower overall cost.

Organisations reviewing their business alarm systems ahead of the PSTN switch-off should assess whether upgrading legacy infrastructure is the most cost-effective option.

Before You Upgrade Your Monitored Alarm System, Explore a Smarter Alternative

If you are reviewing your monitored alarm systems in preparation for the PSTN switch-off, it may be worth considering whether a modern monitored safety device could provide the same — or enhanced — protection without the cost and complexity of upgrading legacy infrastructure.

Speak to our team to:

• Assess whether your current alarm system is PSTN-dependent.
• Compare the overall business alarm system cost and upgrade costs against modern alternatives.
• Understand how a monitored safety device can operate as a fixed workplace alarm.

Modernising your approach now could reduce cost, simplify infrastructure, and strengthen staff protection well before 2027.

Book a free demo, request a quote, or get answers to your questions:

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