Euralarm has voiced concerns about Article 5.4 of the proposed Digital Networks Act (DNA), highlighting a potential risk for life-safety services across Europe.
While the organization supports the intention to enhance transparency concerning network technology shifts, it cautions that the suggested two-year notice period for these changes is inadequate for maintaining critical emergency service functionality.
Impact on Emergency Signal Transmission
Across Europe, fire safety systems, security systems, and social alarms depend on public electronic communications networks for the transmission of emergency signals. These systems include fire alarm transfer systems, intruder alarms, and telecare equipment that serve elderly and vulnerable populations. As current network technologies are gradually being sunset, these life-critical systems are at risk.
As current network technologies are gradually being sunset, these life-critical systems are at risk
The transition to new network technologies involves significant challenges, including the replacement of physical hardware, redesign of products, obtaining certifications, and conducting on-site installations. Euralarm warns that the complexity of such tasks makes a two-year transition period insufficient and may lead to temporary safety lapses affecting millions of citizens. Therefore, Euralarm advocates for a minimum seven-year advance notification of network changes that could disrupt existing services.
Advantages of a Seven-Year Transition
A more extended transition period would benefit the industry by providing the necessary time to develop and certify new technologies, expand manufacturing and supply chains, and organize comprehensive equipment replacement programs. This period would also allow for the coordination of installations with property owners and the users of these safety services, ensuring that life-safety services remain uninterrupted.
While Euralarm is in favor of updating Europe's communication networks, the association emphasizes the need for realistic timelines to safeguard critical safety systems and the people who depend on them. To this end, Euralarm urges EU policymakers to revise Article 5.4 to ensure that life-safety services are prioritized in the Digital Networks Act's final version. The complete Position Paper is accessible on the Euralarm website.
