Emergency Plans Box vs. Gerda PIBs: Which Is More Secure?
In an emergency, fast access to critical building information is essential for the Fire & Rescue Service. Secure storage solutions like the Emergency Plans Box and the Premises Information Box (PIB) are designed to hold key emergency response documents, ensuring that responders can quickly retrieve the information they need. However, these two solutions serve different […]
In an emergency, fast access to critical building information is essential for the Fire & Rescue Service. Secure storage solutions like the Emergency Plans Box and the Premises Information Box (PIB) are designed to hold key emergency response documents, ensuring that responders can quickly retrieve the information they need.
However, these two solutions serve different levels of security and emergency response needs. While the Emergency Plans Box is a basic option for smaller premises, it does not replace a PIB – which offers a higher level of security, accessibility and, most crucially, compliance.
This article will compare the two options in terms of security, accessibility, compliance, and suitability – helping you determine which is the right choice for your premises.
Emergency Plans Box vs. Gerda PIB Comparison
When choosing between the Emergency Plans Box and the PIB, three key factors stand out: security, accessibility, and compliance. Both are used to store plans, but the PIB is designed to hold Emergency Response Packs – A3 plans for operational use by Fire & Rescue services – which are too large for the Emergency Plans Box.
Security
The Emergency Plans Box is a basic steel container, designed to store A4-sized emergency documents. It is available with a combination lock (which is only as secure as the secret combination as kept) or with a key lock, with the key stored behind a break glass panel for emergency access. While this design allows first responders to retrieve the key quickly, it also introduces a security risk, as unauthorised individuals could break the glass and gain access.
In contrast, the Gerda PIB is Secured by Design-approved, offering a significantly more robust and tamper-resistant construction. It is engineered to withstand forced entry attempts and ensures that only authorised emergency responders can access its contents. This makes the PIB a far superior choice for high-risk or complex buildings where security is a priority.
Accessibility
The Gerda Emergency Plans Box relies on a combination lock or a key, stored behind a break glass panel. While this ensures quick access in an emergency, it also means that anyone can break the glass, making it less secure in everyday use.
The Gerda PIB is integrated with the GSP One Key® system, already in use by 98% of Fire & Rescue Services nationwide. This eliminates delays, as firefighters can immediately access the box upon arrival. The standardised design also means that fire crews instantly recognise and understand how to use the PIB, improving efficiency in critical situations.
Compliance
For businesses looking for basic compliance, the Gerda Emergency Plans Box meets BS 9999:2017 and follows HM Government fire safety guidelines. This makes it a suitable option for smaller premises where a minimal level of emergency information is required.
However, the Gerda PIB exceeds standard compliance requirements, making it the better choice for high-risk environments. It is fully compliant with:
These regulations ensure that the PIB meets the highest fire safety standards, making it the recommended solution for complex buildings, high-occupancy structures, and locations requiring detailed Emergency Response Plans.
Which Box Is Best for Your Premises?
| Feature | Emergency Plans Box | Premises Information Box |
| Best for | Premises with persons or security on-site 24/7 | Can be used in any premises, for any application |
| Security Level | Steel construction | Secured by Design-approved |
| Access Method | Key or Combination | GSP One Key® system |
| Document Size | A4 (not suitable for suggested A3 plans) | Laminated A3 – recommended for detailed plans |
| Compliance | BS9999:2017 | Fire Safety (England) 2022 |
While the Emergency Plans Box is suitable for basic emergency planning, it is not a suitable replacement for a Gerda PIB.
Conclusion
The Emergency Plans Box is a basic solution for storing fire safety documents, but it is not a secure information box or PIB replacement. For a secure and compliant solution for accessible emergency response plans, choose the Gerda PIB.
Whether you manage a residential building, office complex, or high-risk environment, investing in a Premises Information Box ensures that emergency responders have the critical information they need – securely, and without delays.
