Did you know commercial property managers are now mandated to ensure first responders communicate effectively in a building? In a fire disaster, first responders often have problems communicating amidst the general noise and commotion. They are helpless and ineffective when they go out of radio signal range. In building public safety coverage ensures first responders can communicate in areas where radio signals have poor penetration. These areas include stairwells, basements, and elevators. Why should you install these systems?

1. Vital Life Saving Enablers

In the conventional setting, first responders depend on two-way communications to coordinate their work. The problem with two-way radio signals is difficulty penetrating areas like the basement puts first responders and those in need of rescue in mortal danger.  

Indoor public safety coverage ensures maximum coverage in all areas in a building. It uses antennas and repeaters to amplify signals in these 'dark'  areas,  giving responders full coverage. It can make a  huge difference in reaching people and coordinating their escape routes. It saves precious time that can mean the difference between life and death. 

2. Legal Requirement 

Deploying In building public safety coverage systems has become a  legal requirement in almost all states. It is part of fire emergency initiatives driven by the International Code Council (ICC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In most jurisdictions, the  requirements are:

• The public safety coverage is on a different spectrum other than commercial  wireless systems

• The coverage extends to all areas, including areas critical to an emergency response like entry and exit stairwells, elevator lobbies, and  fire pump rooms 

• The system has a 24-hr power backup 

• The system has a monitor for malfunctions 

Most local authorities now require property developers to comply with these codes before issuing authorization for tenancy occupation. Without these systems, you risk having a white elephant project that can't be occupied, resulting in massive losses. 

3. Avoid  Retrofitting 

Planning for in building public safety coverage at the design stage avoids coming back to make structural adjustments to fit the system. You can work with the architect and electrical engineers to make provisions for this system while drawing designs for a building.

You avoid retrofitting by integrating the indoor public safety coverage system. You would need new permits to adjust the walls, ceilings, and other building structures to fit the system. An early investment avoids expensive and disruptive retrofits later on.

Would you like high assurances of public safety in your new building? Then, consider deploying in building public safety coverage to aid first responders in their work. 

For more information about in building public safety coverage, contact a supplier in your area.