In most country building regulations, including BS5839 Pt.8 2013 in the UK, voice alarm (VA) systems are recommended for all public buildings and multi-storey buildings over four floors. PAVA systems help to protect the safety of building occupants in an emergency by verbalising useful information about the nature of the hazard or the safest and nearest escape route.

Such communication is particularly important in large, vulnerable or complex buildings where some occupants may be unfamiliar with emergency procedures and exit points, such as shopping centres, transport hubs, hospitals, schools and offices.