The Telephone network in the UK, based upon the Public Switched telephone Network (PSTN) is closing down. This affects ‘landlines’, which are used widely to provide connectivity for emergency lift communications systems. This is happening at the end of January 2027, and post that date, all existing lines will be terminated. This is often known as the Analogue to Digital switch, moving from a tone-based call set up and signalling arrangement to an Internet Protocol (IP) based solution.

Acting now means that alternative arrangements can be made in time.

The UK PSTN network is being withdrawn by January 2027. Any lift emergency system relying on analogue infrastructure may become non-operational if migrated without proper adaptation and resilience planning.

Yes, provided the solution maintains a continuous two-way voice path, supports power resilience, and enables automated testing in line with EN 81-28 and relevant guidance.

It’s important to ensure that alternative solutions work as required in a consistent manner. If a fixed line IP based alternative is chosen, that should be allied with a change of hardware to achieve an end-to-end digital solution.

The use of analogue to digital converters, to avoid the need to replace hardware is not recommended as these have been proven not to work consistently across different Communication Provider’s Fibre To The Premises (FTTP) access networks.

This however may not even be possible as a fixed line circuit, like FTTP, may not be available to the premises/lift.

Cellular solutions, based upon 4G or 5G offer the most flexible and consistent solutions UK-wide.

The recommendation is to test thoroughly whatever solution is proposed, to include fallback arrangements due for example to a localised power failure.

Maybe. Do bear in mind that Communications Providers’ businesses are focussed on the provision of Broadband and standard Telephony – they don’t typically know the use-case for any of the lines that they provide. Accordingly, you should be proactive and help your clients engage with their Communication Providers to ensure a smooth migration.

A defensible approach includes power-backed connectivity, proactive monitoring, clear testing capability, and documented system performance that can be evidenced during audit or review.

Absolutely, in higher-risk environments.

If a fixed line solution is available, then a back-up cellular route would be recommended, whereas in cellular-only solutions, a dual path option with multi-SIMs would be recommended. Either way, knowing that a fallback option was being used must be visible to operational control in order that remedial work can be undertaken to restore service to the primary route.

Managed services provide ongoing monitoring and fault visibility, helping consultants specify solutions that remain operational beyond initial commissioning.

No. Connectivity management complements lift maintenance by ensuring the communication pathway remains operational, while mechanical and safety servicing remain with the maintenance provider.

Lift emergency communications should be considered critical infrastructure and aligned with broader building digital migration plans, rather than treated as isolated legacy lines.

Find out what comms. solution(s) are in place today and if they’re PSTN. If you struggle to find out, speak to the client or FM lead. It could be that a phone bill might need to be examined, or ask us at Memco by Avire.

If PSTN is used, we can manage the whole update from a single lift with no redundant connectivity up to multi-sites with fully backed up solutions.

Key though is to act now. Time is short and resources will be constrained further as the deadline approaches.