ERRCS SYSTEM Consultants
Get The Best Rates For Your ERRCS System
An Emergency Responder Radio Communication System (ERRCS) is essential to the safety of first responders and tenants. It’s also a legal requirement for building owners and property managers in many states.
For example, in the State of Florida, FS 633.202. (18) requires that all new buildings must integrate a public safety DAS to enhance the radio frequency bands that are used by first responders. In addition, just about every existing building in the state is also required to upgrade its public safety DAS to be compliant by January 1, 2025.
In addition to state laws, many local jurisdictions are adding stricter regulations and requirements to the state minimums. If you’re considering an upgrade to an existing ERRCS or are planning an ERRCS for a new development, our team can help you get the best terms for your agreement. Contact us today to learn more about our negotiation process.
What Is An ERRCS System?
Emergency Responder Radio Communication System is a mandatory in-building communication system that allows emergency responders to communicate with each other during an emergency. This system consists of a network of radio towers and repeaters to transmit and receive radio signals.
Having adequate indoor connectivity for first responders became considerably more urgent after the release of the Post-9/11 Commission Report in 2005. The report noted several communication flaws, such as firefighters relying on phone jacks installed near stairways to communicate with personnel in the building’s fire control room.
Modern ERRCS systems use antennas to receive external public safety radio signals, and they then retransmit these signals throughout the building. This retransmission ensures penetration in all building areas, including stairwells, elevators, basements, and other heavily shielded areas.
ERRCS uses small antennas known as Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) to distribute the radio signals throughout the building. The DAS antennas are connected to a central controller that manages the system.
One of the major components of an ERRCS system is the Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) system. This system amplifies the radio signals transmitted and received by the emergency responders. The BDA system provides coverage in areas where the signal strength is weak or obstructed.
Any ERRCS system is enforced by the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) within a city, municipality, or state.
What Is The Role Of AHJ In ERRCS?
Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is the term used to describe the governmental agency or department with regulatory oversight of the communications systems within their jurisdiction. The AHJ typically reviews and approves the ERRCS design before installation.
As a building manager, you can’t install an ERRCS without the AHJ first approving the design. The AHJ evaluates ERRCS systems based on standards set by the NFPA.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a standards-setting organization that develops and maintains fire codes and standards. This includes the NFPA 1221 Standard for installing Emergency Services Communications Systems.
The NFPA 1221 Standard provides guidelines on the design, installation, testing, and maintenance of ERRCS systems. The standard is referenced by many local building codes and is used by AHJs to evaluate ERRCS designs.
Your ERRCS will be subject to the standards used by the local AHJ. If you aren’t familiar with the local building codes and how they pertain to an ERRCS agreement, it may be best to consult with a third party, such as Converged Services, to negotiate a contract on your behalf.
What Is Factored Into ERRCS Agreements?
In Florida, state law FS 633.202. (18) states that all buildings in the state must:
Meet the minimum radio signal strength for fire department communications in all new high-rise and existing high-rise buildings
Existing buildings are not required to comply with the Florida Fire Prevention Code until January 1, 2025
Existing buildings must apply for a permit for the required installation to be compliant by January 1, 2024
As the actual code is determined by the “authority having jurisdiction,” it’s important to ensure that your ERRCS agreement provides that your building will comply with your local and state laws. Here are the more important factors we look at when reviewing a contract.
Building Size
Florida law states that any building with three or more stories or more than 50,000 square feet must comply with ERRCS laws. In addition, any buildings with underground parking are also required to comply with ERRCS laws.
The size of the building will also be one of the key factors that determine the cost in your ERRCS agreement because the larger the building is, the more robust a system it will need. In addition to the usual distance limitations that a wireless signal faces, building materials such as metal, concrete, low-E glass, and wood can also disrupt communication signals. It’s important to properly inspect and vet the building before committing to an agreement.
Our team will help to analyze your building's requirements, ensure they are fully covered in your ERRCS agreement, and that you are receiving the best possible rates for the services. Contact us today to learn more.
Licensing Requirements
Another common factor included in ERRCS agreements is licensing requirements. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates the commercial radiofrequency spectrum and requires that you have a valid license if you are operating a two-way radio system.
There are several different types of licenses that you can obtain from the FCC, however, the FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) is the most important one.
Our team will help you select a reputable ERRCS provider that is licensed and insured, ensuring that your building stays compliant with all FCC requirements.
Frequency Requirements
ERRCS laws demand that the system works with the correct public safety frequencies. These frequencies are typically in the UHF or VHF range and are assigned by the FCC.
Using the correct frequencies enhances seamless communication between emergency responders and aid safe passage in and out of the building in case of an emergency.
Signal Strength
The minimum signal strength for your ERRCS will also likely be defined by your local AHJ. The specific requirements will vary from locale to locale and state to state, but most states require a minimum signal strength of -95 decibels (dBm).
For example, in Orlando, FL, the inbound and outbound strength must be at least -95 decibels. This means that the signal must be strong enough to penetrate normal walls and other obstacles. To achieve this, signal boosters must be placed in strategic locations throughout the building.
Signal Testing
Once you have an ERRCS installed, you’ll be required to test the signal regularly to remain compliant. This ensures that the system will work as expected if and when it’s needed during a real emergency. The AHJ will usually dictate the necessary frequency of testing, and if not, it’s important to establish this with your provider upfront.
Battery Backups
ERRCS laws also require that a certain amount of backup power be available for the emergency radio system. Backup power ensures that emergency responders can continue to communicate uninhibited regardless of whether or not the building has power.
NEMA 4 Enclosures
NEMA-rated enclosures are designed to protect electronic equipment from harsh environments. NEMA is an acronym for the National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association.
NEMA 4 Enclosures ensure that the signal boosters and sensitive electronics are protected from dust, water, and other harsh elements.
Paging Systems
Typically, an ERRCS agreement will also include installing, managing, and maintaining paging systems. Paging systems allow you to communicate with a large group of people all at once via loudspeakers. They are used to announce emergencies quickly, give instructions, or provide other important information to everyone in the building.
Testing And Recertification
ERRCS systems must be tested and recertified regularly to ensure public safety compliance. Local authorities will have different requirements regarding testing, so it’s essential to ensure that you know what those requirements are.
Make sure you choose a licensed and experienced company to perform these tests.
What Do Typical ERRCS Agreements Look Like?
An ERRCS agreement will be between a property owner and an emergency responder radio communication system (ERRCS) provider. The agreement establishes the terms and conditions under which the ERRCS provider will install, maintain, and operate the system, according to the local regulations set by the AHJ.
The agreement also outlines the property manager's responsibilities and the ERRCS provider concerning the system. ERRCS agreements are typically long-term contracts, so it’s essential to have a technology advisory firm like Converged Services review the terms and negotiate the best possible deal before committing to anything.
Our team has over 25 years of experience negotiating various telecom agreements, including bulk cable TV, bulk internet, managed wi-fi, and public safety DAS agreements. Contact us today to learn more about what our team can do for you.
The Benefits Of An Emergency Responder Radio Communication System
While many states now require that buildings upgrade their ERRCS to comply with state laws, it’s good to make sure your radio communication systems are up to date even if your state does not require it. Modern ERRCS offers many benefits to building owners and tenants - not just emergency service providers.
Ensured Public Safety Communications In An Emergency
Public safety should be the number one priority for any building owner - not just buildings in municipalities that mandate it by law. In an emergency, every second counts, so ensuring that first responders have a reliable way to communicate is crucial.
Improved Coverage And Signal Quality
When you upgrade your ERRCS with a distributed antenna system, building occupants should also enjoy improved coverage and signal quality, particularly cell phone signal coverage. This is because signal boosters are strategically placed throughout the building to provide adequate coverage, no matter where you are in the building.
How Converged Services Negotiates ERRCS AgreementS
We work with building owners across the State of Florida and the United States to help them make their properties compliant with local ERRCS laws.
We work with you to assess your requirements, select providers, negotiate the terms of your agreements, and can even assist with overseeing the installation of your distributed antenna systems.
At Converged Services, our team has provided technology advisory services for more than 25 years. We negotiate a wide range of telecom agreements for our clients, including bulk cable TV agreements, bulk internet agreements, managed wi-fi agreements, rooftop leasing agreements, and much more. We have negotiated more than $5 billion worth of contracts for clients across the United States, saving them millions of dollars along the way.
Contact us today to learn more about our ERRCS agreement negotiation services or any of our other technology advisory solutions.