PSTN Switch Off

How the PSTN Switch‑off Will affect your lift

Understanding PSTN and the Upcoming Changes

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is a legacy system of analogue, circuit-switched telephone lines dating back to the late 1800s. Known by names like landlines, Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS), or fixed-line telephones, PSTN has long enabled real-time communication across vast distances. However, with the rise of digital technologies, PSTN is being phased out.

What Is the PSTN Switch-Off?

Openreach, the UK’s telecom infrastructure provider, has announced that all PSTN services will be discontinued by 31 January 2027. This includes:

• PSTN lines
• ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) lines
• WLR (Wholesale Line Rental) services

Since September 2023, BT has stopped selling traditional phone lines, and no new analogue lines are being installed. The switch-off supports the UK government's goal of gigabit-speed broadband access for 85% of premises by 2027.

What Services Will Be Affected?

While most discussions focus on voice telephony—home landlines, office phones, PBX systems—many non-voice devices will also be impacted:

• Lift emergency alarms
• Panic and burglar alarms
• Traffic lights and information displays
• Door and gate entry systems
• CCTV and point-of-sale terminals

Contact us for further information: pstn@hostedcompanies.co.uk - 0203 857 3843These devices rely on analogue lines and will cease to function unless upgradedto digital alternatives.

Impact on Lift Emergency Alarms

Under EN 81-28 (2003) standards, all UK passenger lifts installed since 1999 must have an emergency alarm system. These systems use auto-diallers connected to PSTN lines to provide two-way communication during emergencies.

Key risks:

• VOIP conversions may fail due to lack of dial tone or power supply issues.
• Auto-diallers that draw power from the phone line will stop working.
• VOIP routers require uninterrupted power, which may not be feasible in all lift environments.

If your lift’s emergency alarm fails a 3-day line test, it will be declared non-compliant and shut down.

GSM: A Reliable Alternative

GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) offers a robust solution:

• No need for physical phone lines
• Easy installation with battery backup
• Roaming SIMs ensure strong signal by connecting to the best available network
• Remote monitoring and alerts for SIM data, signal strength, and battery status

Managed SIM services are essential to avoid issues like expired credit or accidental deactivation—problems that may go unnoticed until a real emergency occurs.

Cost and Compliance Benefits

Upgrading to GSM may require:

• GSM hardware
• A compatible auto-dialler

Contact us for further information: pstn@hostedcompanies.co.uk - 0203 857 3843. However, GSM is significantly more cost-effective than maintaining a commercial phone line. Over time, savings will offset initial setup costs, while ensuring compliance and passenger safety.