Alarm Receiving Centre Technical Committee

The Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) Technical Committee supports the ARC Section by leading work on technical matters affecting ARC members. The committee monitors developments in standards, legislation, policing initiatives, accreditation schemes, and emerging technologies, ensuring that the interests of ARC operators are represented across UK, European and international forums. It also develops guidance, best practice documents and technical publications, identifies subject matter experts to represent the sector, and provides advice on issues such as alarm transmission, cybersecurity, false alarm management, data transfer, and evolving regulatory requirements.

Key current areas of focus include:

  • Revisions to EN 50136 and EN 50518 standards.
  • Cybersecurity considerations within ARC operations and standards.
  • Best practice guidance for data transfers between ARCs.
  • Technical responses to telecoms network changes, including 2G and PSTN switch-off programmes.
  • Collaboration with installer technical groups and other industry stakeholders on technical challenges and standards development

Chair: Robert McCallister - Mitie

As part of the technical committee, Robert works with industry experts and stakeholders to address technical issues affecting ARC operators, supports the development of standards and best practice, and helps ensure the sector remains informed and prepared.

Looking for the ARC Section?

Find out more about our ARC section, which represents organisations that provide critical monitoring and response services for intruder, fire and life safety alarms, working to promote best practice, influence industry standards and address the operational challenges facing the sector.

Looking for other technical committees?

Discover more BSIA technical committees that join together to support sections on various technical matters affecting BSIA members and the wider industry. These groups also identify experts that represent the sector and provide advice on relevant technical challenges and opportunities.

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Find out more about the various sections within the BSIA, from technical to physical security. Our membership is structured around various security matters, with 14 chairs that expertly discuss important challenges and opportunities within the security sector. We provide a connected world through our sections.