Reliable communication for emergency responders is critical during emergencies. In Arlington, Texas, the city mandates the installation of Enhanced Radio Coverage (ERRC) systems, including Bi-Directional Amplifiers (BDAs) and Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS), to ensure optimal radio coverage within buildings. This article explores the requirements and guidelines for ERRC, BDA, and DAS systems in Arlington, TX, and highlights how Elyon Fire can assist in meeting these standards.
Key Requirements for ERRC, BDA, and DAS Systems in Arlington
1. When Are ERRC/BDA/DAS Systems Required?
ERRC systems must be installed in the following scenarios:
- New buildings over 5,000 square feet
- Existing buildings needing improved radio coverage for public safety
Signal Strength and Coverage Criteria
1. Signal Strength Requirements:
- Minimum inbound signal strength of -95dBm or 18 dB above the noise floor.
- Minimum outbound signal strength of -95dBm with a Delivered Audio Quality (DAQ) score of 3.4.
2. Coverage Areas:
- Critical areas: 99% floor area radio coverage (emergency command centers, fire pump rooms, exit stairs, etc.).
- General building areas: 95% floor area coverage.
Elyon Fire provides thorough site surveys and signal strength analysis to ensure your building meets Arlington’s stringent requirements.
Installation and Design Criteria
1. System Design and Approval:
- A licensed RF engineer must prepare the system design plan, documenting noise floor, potential interference, coverage impact, and link budgets.
- The design must consider the use of 3.2W portable radios and support 19W mobile devices in accessible areas.
2. Equipment Specifications:
- Channelized BDA with one 12.5 kHz filter per frequency.
- Certified Class A by the FCC, narrowbanded, and equipped with independent AGC/ALC circuits per channel.
Elyon Fire offers expert design services to ensure compliance with all Arlington and International Fire Code requirements.
Testing and Maintenance
1. Acceptance Testing:
- Conducted post-installation to verify performance specifications.
- Must achieve the required RSSI and DAQ values in a grid configuration similar to the baseline report.
2. Annual Testing:
- Required to ensure the system remains compliant with original performance tests.
- Necessary when structural changes occur that might impact the system.
Elyon Fire handles all aspects of testing and maintenance, ensuring your system remains in top condition and compliant with regulations.
Compliance and Approval Process
1. Permit Application:
- A construction permit is required for installing or modifying ERRC systems.
- Written approval from the Arlington Fire Marshal is mandatory before installation.
2. Installation and Certification:
- Systems must be installed by certified personnel who meet International Fire Code Section 510.5.2 requirements.
- A final performance report must be submitted to the Arlington Fire Marshal for review.
Elyon Fire manages the entire approval process, from permit application to final certification, ensuring a smooth and compliant installation.
Additional Requirements
1. Emergency Shutdown and Annunciation:
- Systems must include an emergency shutdown feature, standalone annunciator for the BDA system, and rated backbone cabling.
- Integration with the building’s fire alarm system is required.
2. System Monitoring:
- The radio enhancement system must be continuously monitored and inspected annually.
- A service contract with a qualified vendor is required for the life of the equipment.
Elyon Fire provides comprehensive installation, repair, and monitoring services to meet all regulatory requirements and ensure continuous system performance.
Contact Information for ERRC Systems in Arlington
For more detailed information on requirements and procedures, refer to the City of Arlington Fire Prevention guidelines.
By adhering to these guidelines and partnering with Elyon Fire, building owners and managers in Arlington, TX, can ensure effective emergency response and communication. Contact Elyon Fire today for expert assistance with certification, testing, installation, repair, and maintenance of your ERRC, BDA, and DAS systems.