The 2009 International Building Code (IBC) was the first introduction of Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES), which addressed the performance of the portable radios used by emergency responders. The issue was that new construction, concrete, building size, and other mediums could block or absorb radio communications, which can interfere with life-saving efforts.
ERCES Code Requirements and Standards
Today, IBC and NFPA (National Fire Prevention Association) codes mandate that all buildings must have an approved level of coverage for emergency responders’ communication in a building’s interior that is based on current public safety communication system levels of jurisdiction at the building’s exterior. This can be accomplished by using an ERCES consisting of a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) and a BDA/Signal Booster to enhance the in-building radio frequency signal coverage.
Coverage Solutions
The in-building signal strength needed for dependable communications is negatively impacted by larger buildings, subsurface construction, and concrete or metal construction. Public safety radio systems’ signal will be weaker in buildings with low-E glass windows. The ERCES requirements are not well-known to many design experts. The fire official should promptly tell the design and building official, in writing, that the ERCES must be examined if it is not mentioned on a building submittal. ERCES must be offered if the current radio coverage has not been preserved. It is important to consult with a commercial fire alarm and security system specialist who is aware of these code requirements and changes.
Is a NOTIFIER® BDA and FIBER DAS System Right for My Building?
By improving the RF signal in buildings with the NOTIFIER® BDA signal booster and distributed antenna system (DAS), you can ensure your building is code-compliant. NOTIFIER® offers UL2524 product performance along with the quality and dependability required from life safety systems, guaranteeing commercial building owners and AHJs code-compliant ERCES for two-way emergency radio communications within buildings.
An RF Survey is carried out by measuring the downlink and uplink signal strengths in decibels-milliwatts (dBm) using special measurement equipment. This is usually done by FCC GROL-certified technicians and certain radio personnel from the fire department. The AHJ receives the results to decide if a BDA system is necessary or if a waiver is suitable.
How are NOTIFIER’s® BDA and FIBER DAS SYSTEM Unique?
NOTIFIER’s® BDA and Fiber DAS system, which is specifically made to comply with NFPA and IBC/IFC code compliance with UL2524 2nd Edition listing, strengthens two-way radio signals within tunnels, buildings, and other structures. Digital Class A/B, low to high power (0.5W to 5W) radio signal booster systems are available from NOTIFIER® BDA and Fiber DAS Solutions. These systems may be tailored to accommodate each frequency band range for public safety, including UHF, VHF, 700MHz, 800MHz, and FirstNet Band 14 compatibility with Single/Dual Band.
Innovative BDA and Fiber DAS Systems were created to deliver top coverage and amplification performance and provide radio network reliability with no distortion or noise.
Benefits of NOTIFIER® BDA and FIBER DAS Systems
Mission-critical communication is provided by NOTIFIER®’S BDA, which is simple to use and deploy and does not require field adjustment or programming. NOTIFIER® BDAs offer a high level of dependability with little power consumption, as well as numerous other features and advantages, and they interface seamlessly with NOTIFIER® fire alarm control panels. Additional benefits include:
- IBC, IFC, and NFPA compliant, FCC certified
- A single portfolio that includes all the parts needed to satisfy any multiple or single building applications in the US and supports every public safety frequency
- In-building 2-Way ERCES listed in UL2524 2nd Edition
- There is no noise, oscillation prevention, and oversight with programmable performance mitigation actions and automated uplink power amplifier auto-off support for safe operation and to minimize interference with public safety radio systems.
- Software-programmable, changeable, or channel-specific bandwidths. Per channel and time slot, platform-wide Downlink Automatic Gain Control (AGC)
- NOTIFIER’s® addressable monitor module for seamless NOTIFIER® Fire Alarm Panel integration for BDA and Fiber DAS Master/Remote monitoring. Dedicated annunciator choices, including a remote annunciator and one integrated into the Battery Backup Unit (BBU)
- Responds to any application and any jurisdiction resulting in the lowest total cost of ownership
High Rise Security Systems, HRSS, is a leading commercial fire alarm and security system provider in and around Chicago. Contact HRSS to learn more about the NOTIFIER® BDA and how you can ensure complete code compliance with your Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement System (ERCES).