Servicing your AFILS (Audio Frequency Induction Loop Systems) is essential for ensuring that people with hearing aids can access clear and intelligible sound in public and private spaces. In the UK, regular servicing of AFILS is a legal and moral obligation under equality legislation and must be maintained in accordance with British Standards.

🎧 WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO SERVICE YOUR AFILS?

⚖️ 1. Legal Obligation – Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act 2010 requires service providers, employers, and building managers to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people, including those with hearing loss. This includes:

If an AFIL system is installed but not working or maintained, it could result in:

• Discrimination claims

• Legal penalties

• Reputational damage

  
  

📘 2. British Standard Compliance – BS 7594:2011

BS 7594:2011 – Code of Practice for Audio-Frequency Induction Loop Systems outlines best practices for:

• Installation

• Performance

• Testing

• Maintenance

Key maintenance requirements include:

• Routine inspections and testing to ensure signal strength and clarity

• Annual servicing by a competent person

• Record-keeping of maintenance and user feedback

• Ensuring microphones, amplifiers, loop wiring, and signage are in working order

If AFILS are not maintained, they may produce distorted, weak, or intermittent sound—or not work at all.

🧏 3. Critical for Accessibility and Inclusion

AFILS transmit sound directly to hearing aids via the “T” (telecoil) setting, bypassing background noise. Without a properly functioning system:

• People with hearing loss may miss important information

• Public announcements, speeches, or emergency messages may be inaccessible

• It could discourage attendance and participation in events or services

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🔧 4. Technical Reliability

Servicing ensures:

• The loop amplifier is correctly set and free from distortion

• Cables and connections are intact and interference-free

• The microphone and input devices are working properly

• Loop coverage meets the required area (as per BS 7594 guidance)

  
  

📑 5. Compliance Demonstration and Risk Management

• Building managers may need to provide proof of maintenance to:

  • Building control

  • Fire safety officers

  • Equality and accessibility audits

Failure to service AFILS could result in:

• Health and safety risks

• Complaints from users

• Breaches of building and accessibility regulations

  
  

✅ Summary