Code Requirements

Code-Compliant ERRCS:

Your Key to Public Safety Communication Standards

Effective communication is vital during emergencies. Under National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and International Fire Code (IFC) regulations, buildings must have properly installed and maintained Emergency Responder Radio Communications Systems (ERRCS). These systems, implemented by certified professionals, ensure seamless communication for first responders, covering every corner of the building, including challenging areas like stairwells and basements. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure optimal functionality. Building owners, by adhering to these standards, guarantee the safety of occupants and enhance the effectiveness of first responders in emergencies. Compliance isn’t just a regulation—it’s a commitment to public safety.

What You Need to Know About Code Requirements

Clear and efficient communication is the backbone of emergency response. As a First Responder, the ability to relay vital information from within a building to the dispatch center, the emergency scene command center, and other First Responders can be the difference between life and death. Guided by the International Fire Code (IFC) Section 510 and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Codes 72 and 1221, city officials are empowered to enforce the crucial standards for in-building communication capabilities.

We aim to shed light on the intricacies of IFC 510 and NFPA 72/1221, ensuring that Authority Having Jurisdictions (AHJs) and Fire Inspectors can confidently assist building owners in adhering to the code requirements for Emergency Responder Radio Communications (ERRC) systems. Together, we can make every building a safe haven for those in need and the brave individuals who answer their call for help.

The Emergency Responder Radio Communication (ERRC) code requirements are vital for the safety and efficiency of your building. These requirements apply to: New Construction and Existing Buildings.

New Construction

The ERRC policy impacts all new constructions if they meet any of the following conditions:

Buildings that are more than three stories above the grade plane, as defined by Building Code Section 201.
Any structure where the total building area, including parking garages, exceeds 50,000 square feet.
Buildings with a basement or underground level(s).
Any building specified by the fire code official where radio coverage signal strength levels do not meet the jurisdiction's minimum levels.
The policy does not apply if the jurisdiction's radio system signal levels measured outside the building are less than -95dBm, or to temporary structures, such as tents, when permitted by the fire marshal.

Major Renovations:
The ERRC code also applies to any substantial renovations, which refers to adding 25% or more square footage to existing buildings.

Wired Systems:
Please note that wired systems identified in IFC 510.1, Exception 1, are not accepted as alternatives to an ERRC system. All structures must comply with the ERRC system regulations.

Your compliance with these code requirements is our priority at Allwave. We provide tailored solutions to meet these specifications and ensure uninterrupted, reliable communication for first responders in your building.

Existing Buildings

In line with the 2015 and 2018 International Fire Code (IFC) Section 1103.2, existing buildings that lack approved radio coverage for emergency responders within the building will need to equip their structures with such coverage. This is based on the existing coverage levels of the jurisdiction’s public safety communication systems at the building’s exterior. The implementation of this coverage should follow one of the following directives:

When an existing wired communication system is beyond repair, is being replaced, or is not approved in line with Section 510.1, Exception 1. It should be noted that most jurisdictions no longer support wired communication systems under any circumstances.

The coverage should be implemented within a timeframe established by the adopting authority.

Exception: The requirement to equip radio coverage can be waived when the fire code official determines that the system is unnecessary.

Ensuring your building’s compliance with these requirements is critical. At Allwave, we offer comprehensive solutions to ensure your facility meets the updated ERRC requirements and provides reliable, seamless communication for emergency responders.

Ensuring Optimal Over the Air Radio Coverage

The International Fire Code (IFC) mandates that certain critical areas within your building must maintain 99% radio coverage. These areas include:

Fire Command Centers
Fire Pump Rooms
Exit Stairs & Passageways
Elevator Lobbies
Standpipe Cabinets
Sprinkler Sectional Valve Locations
Other areas specified by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

In addition to this, general areas must uphold a 90% floor area coverage. Moreover, the radio enhancement systems should be designed to support simultaneous transmission from two portable radios on different talk paths or channels, where required by the AHJ.

The uplink (signal from inside the building) and downlink (signal from the broadcast antenna to the inside of the building) should both maintain a minimum Delivered Audio Quality (DAQ) of 3.0.

If your building does not meet these stringent coverage specifications, an RF enhancement system becomes necessary to ensure compliance. Allwave specializes in equipping your building with cutting-edge RF enhancement systems that meet all these code requirements, providing reliable communication infrastructure for emergency responders. We are committed to bolstering safety and code compliance, allowing you to focus on what you do best.