High-tech radios rollout for ambulances in 2007

A new radio system to be installed by all NHS ambulance trusts in England beginning in early 2007 will offer interoperability with other emergency services and better coverage in rural areas, the Department of Health said today.

Ambulance trusts have chosen to implement radio terminals provided by Sepura which will operate on the O2/Airwave network, and work with control room equipment being provided by Sungard Vivista, as part of Airwave’s Ambulance Radio Replacement Programme contract.

The new radio system:

• will be interoperable with police and fire service radio systems, meaning improved communications between the emergency services;

• minimises the risk of interference with medical equipment;

• offers significantly better coverage in rural areas; and

• has greater security and resilience than existing systems.

Sepura will supply over 18,000 TETRA radio terminals to ambulance trusts – the largest single deployment of TETRA radios anywhere in the world to this type of emergency-response user.

The department signed a 13 year contract worth £390m in July 2005 with Airwave, to provide the new digital radio and communications system. It is said to offer a complete solution for accident and emergency personnel, comprising of a combination of vehicle-based radios, lightweight hand-held radios and new equipment in control rooms.

The radios will be installed in a wide range of vehicles, including rapid response vehicles and motorcycles as well as ambulances. Work on the overall programme is already well underway, and deployment of the new radio equipment will start in 2007 and will be completed by September 2008.

Health minister Lord Warner said: “The ambulance service has made excellent improvements in patient care over the last few years. Digital technology means a more secure system, with less interference and improved interoperability between trusts and the other emergency services.

“The new digital equipment will provide a more reliable service and help bring further improvements to patient care.”

Graham Matthews, Sepura chief executive officer, said: “This is not only a tremendous recognition of Sepura’s technical expertise, but also of our long-standing commitment to understanding the needs of public safety organisations and developing solutions that meet these needs."