Bi-Directional Emergency Radio Amplification Systems

Emergency Responder Radio Enhancement Systems (ERRES)
When First Responders arrive at your building for an emergency, they rely on their 2-way radios to communicate and coordinate their response. Staying informed with clear radio transmissions between first responders inside the building and emergency personnel outside the building can help prevent further injuries and save more lives. Emergency Responders lose communications when in-building radio signals are weakened by structures such as concrete, windows, and metal. A Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) System is a signal boosting solution designed to enhance in-building radio frequency (RF) signal coverage for public safety radio. Ohio Fire Code mandates that all new and existing buildings must conform to the standard that 95% of the building achieves adequate 2-way emergency radio coverage. (1) See details of the code requirements below.

Torrence has the sophisticated radio test equipment to verify if your building is safe for emergency radio coverage. We also design and install the “In-Building Amplification” systems needed to conform to the Fire Code if your facility fails the test. (2)

• For a nominal service charge, Torrence offers a non-compliant radio reception survey to see if you need to be concerned. We require an escort who can provide access to all locations within your building and floor plan drawings to documenting our findings.
• Torrence also offers full 95% Pass/Fail testing and documentation to present to your authorities. The cost for this service varies depending on the size and complexity of your building.
• Additionally, Torrence offers a package that includes full testing and a complete In-Building Amplification design, which you own upon completion. We also provide turn-key testing, design, installation, and commissioning solutions.

Contact the experts at Torrence to schedule an Emergency Communication Survey.

(1) Ohio Building Code 915:
Emergency responder radio coverage shall be provided in all new buildings in accordance with Section 510 of the Ohio fire code.”

510.2
95% of the building is required to achieve:

• -95dBm downlink
• -100dBm uplink (-95 dBm IFC)

510.3
“Existing buildings that do not have coverage also must be equipped…..”

The Ohio Fire Code Section 510 and NFPA 72 Chapter 24 outlines requirements for testing and In-Building Amplification to conform to this important requirement. International Fire Code Article 510 and Michigan Building Code 915 have the same requirements.

NOTE: Some authorities are mandating critical areas like the Command Center, Fire Pump Room, Exit Stairs, Exit passageway, Elevator Lobbies, Standpipe Cabinets, and Sprinkler Section Valves have 99% radio coverage.

(2) In-Building Amplification consists of a Bi-Directional radio frequency amplifier (BDA) and a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) that ensures 2-way emergency radios will function within your building.

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