ISO 7240-16:2007 specifies the requirements, test methods and performance criteria for sound system control and indicating equipment (s.s.c.i.e.) for use in buildings and structures as part of a sound system for emergency purposes (s.s.e.p.) aas defined in ISO 7240-1. The s.s.c.i.e. is primarily intended to broadcast information for the protection of lives within one or more specified areas in an emergency, to effect a rapid and orderly mobilization of occupants in an indoor or outdoor area. This includes systems using loudspeakers to broadcast voice announcements for emergency purposes, alert signals complying with ISO 7731, and evacuate signals complying with ISO 8201.

The overall requirements of an s.s.e.p., especially concerning audibility and intelligibility, are contained within ISO 7240-19. In addition to ensuring compliance with ISO 7240-16:2007, the manufacturer should also consider the requirements of ISO 7240-19, national regulations, codes and standards that affect the s.s.c.i.e. design and usability. For example, some regulations require certain optional functions to be available on all s.s.c.i.e. installed within the jurisdiction.

The use of the equipment for normal sound reinforcement and distribution systems purposes under non-hazardous circumstances is not excluded.

ISO 7240-16:2007 can also be used for the assessment of similar control and indicating equipment for use in systems where the warning-signal broadcast does not include a voice message.

ISO 7240-16:2007 does not apply to systems using only sounders or bells.