A holdup alarm system (ÜMA) is a danger alarm system specifically designed for alerting in cases of holdups. In contrast to burglar alarm systems (EMA), which automatically react to attempted burglaries, a ÜMA is triggered manually by a threatened person. This enables immediate notification of the police or security services to provide help quickly in critical situations.
A panic alarm system is a security system that, in acute threat situations – such as during an armed robbery – sends a silent alarm to an emergency and service control centre or directly to the police.
Triggering usually occurs manually by the affected staff, often via unobtrusive alarm buttons or foot switches. The use of such systems is particularly sensible in high-risk areas – for example, in banks, jewellers, pharmacies, petrol stations, or retail outlets handling cash.
Depending on the location and risk analysis, the panic alarm system can be installed as a standalone system or as a supplement to an existing intrusion alarm system. The requirements for the planning, installation and operation of panic alarm systems in Germany are regulated by DIN VDE 0833 and, in particular, by DIN EN 50131. These standards describe, among other things, minimum technical requirements as well as various classifications and alarm possibilities.
Alarm systems can be divided into different types, which vary depending on their area of use, technology, and method of signalling. Fundamentally, a distinction is made between silent and acoustic alarm systems. Silent alarm systems transmit an alert exclusively to a call and dispatch centre or directly to the police, without emitting a visible or audible signal at the location. They are the common choice in sensitive areas such as banks, pharmacies, or retail shops, as they minimise the risk to staff.
Acoustic panic alarm systems, on the other hand, additionally emit a loud siren – either to deter the perpetrator or to alert people in the vicinity. This variant is used much less frequently, as it can potentially escalate the situation. There are also mobile panic alarms, for example in the form of portable alarm transmitters for lone workers or employees at high risk. Technically, panic alarm systems can also be distinguished by their activation mechanism:
The selection of the appropriate system always depends on an individual risk assessment and the desired security concept.
Paffen Security hold-up alarm systems
Are you looking for a suitable alarm system? We would be happy to advise you comprehensively and install a model that suits your property. If required, we can also advise you on other sensible security measures and create a comprehensive security concept for you.
The activation of a hold-up alarm system is usually carried out manually via specially placed triggering elements, such as discreet buttons under the counter, foot switches, or mobile remote controls. Silent triggering systems are designed not to produce an alarm sound or visible signals on site. This is intended to prevent the perpetrator from noticing the alarm, which in turn reduces the risk of escalation. The silent alarm is immediately transmitted to a connected emergency and service control centre (NSL) or directly to the police, who initiate appropriate measures immediately depending on the situation – such as alarm response by a security service or dispatching a police patrol.
Audible triggering systems, on the other hand, simultaneously activate an internal siren or an optical display, for example, to warn colleagues in other areas or to deter perpetrators. However, this variant is usually only used in combination with further security measures and is less common, as it can carry a higher risk for the threatened personnel.
Modern UMA (Unified Management Appliance) systems can be easily networked with other safety technology systems, such as video surveillance, access control or intrusion alarm systems. For example, when linked with camera surveillance, a live image can be transmitted to the NLC (Network Operations Centre) upon alarm activation, allowing for a faster situational assessment and reducing intervention time. The combination creates a comprehensive security concept that acts both preventatively and reactively.
Regardless of the location or technical design, hold-up alarm systems always consist of several basic components that, together, enable reliable and effective alerting. The central element is the Control unit or alarm transmitter, via which the alarm is triggered manually. These can be concealed buttons, foot switches, remote controls or mobile emergency call systems - depending on the requirements and environment.
Another key element is the Evaluation unit, which processes the alarm signals and forwards them to the emergency call and service control centre or another defined point. This processing unit is often integrated into a hazard warning control centre and forms the „brain“ of the system.
In addition, Transmission equipment, which reliably and in real-time transmits the alarm – usually via IP, mobile radio, or radio – to the responsible party. Optional, but often included especially in combined systems, are Interfaces to further security systems, such as video surveillance or access control. An emergency power supply ensures that the ÜMA remains operational even in the event of a power failure. Only the interplay of these components guarantees a reliable reaction in an emergency.
Although hold-up alarm systems (ÜMA) and alarm systems – particularly intrusion alarm systems (EMA) – pursue similar objectives at first glance, they differ fundamentally in function and area of application. An intrusion alarm system primarily serves to detect unauthorised access to a building and usually works automatically using sensors, such as motion detectors, glass break sensors or magnetic contacts on doors and windows. It is typically activated outside operating hours and triggers an acoustic and/or optical signal when an intrusion is detected.
The holdup alarm system, on the other hand, is deliberately triggered by a threatened person – often during business hours. Its aim is not to prevent unauthorised access, but to provide a swift, discreet alert in the event of an acute holdup. The silent activation of the holdup alarm system offers a decisive advantage, particularly in situations where staff are directly confronted by the perpetrator. While an alarm system usually operates on an object-based level, a holdup alarm system prioritises the protection of individuals. In a comprehensive security concept, both systems complement each other meaningfully and jointly ensure increased protection for people and assets.
Paffen Wachdienst & Sicherheitsdienst offers you complete security solutions in the greater Cologne, Bonn, Aachen, Rhein-Sieg-Kreis and Rhein-Erft-Kreis, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Koblenz, Neuss and Frankfurt areas. We are a security service provider everywhere personally for you.
Find out more now without obligation.
We have many years of experience in the security industry and know what really matters. We recommend and install security technology that has proven itself to be effective and reliable in long-term practical tests. Furthermore, you will receive additional security services from us all under one roof – thus obtaining a comprehensive security concept that suits you. We are available around the clock – 7 days a week.
Our security service is available to you with all the services presented in the following cities:
We would be happy to advise you on your alarm system and install it. Call us or write to us for a free initial consultation!
