Reliable communication for emergency responders is essential for safety during emergencies. In Azle, Texas, the city mandates the installation of Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (ERRC) systems, including Bi-Directional Amplifiers (BDAs) and Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS), to enhance radio coverage within buildings. This article outlines the requirements for these systems and highlights how Elyon Fire can assist in meeting these standards.
Key Requirements for ERRC, BDA, and DAS Systems in Azle
1. Installation and Compliance:
- New Buildings: Must have approved radio coverage for emergency responders based on the existing public safety communications system levels measured at the building’s exterior.
- Existing Buildings: Must provide approved radio coverage as specified in Chapter 11 of the 2018 International Fire Code, adopted by Azle.
- Permits: A construction permit is required for the installation or modification of ERRC systems and related equipment.
Elyon Fire can handle the entire installation process, from obtaining necessary permits to final system testing and approval.
Signal Strength and Coverage Criteria
- Signal Strength Requirements:
- Minimum inbound signal strength of -95dBm.
- Minimum outbound signal strength of -95dBm with a Delivered Audio Quality (DAQ) score of 3.4.
- Coverage Areas:
- Critical areas (e.g., emergency command centers, fire pump rooms, exit stairs) must provide 99% floor area radio coverage.
- General building areas must provide 95% floor area coverage.
Elyon Fire provides thorough site surveys and signal strength analysis to ensure your building meets Azle’s stringent requirements.
System Design and Installation
1. System Design:
- 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.
- The system must include 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 Azle and International Fire Code requirements.
2. Installation Specifications:
- No active components shall be shared between the public safety radio enhancement system and commercial or cellular systems. Passive components may be shared.
- Coax cables must be plenum-rated with a low PIM rating. Vertical cables must be in conduit or a riser.
- All cables, coax, fiber, conduit, and risers must have a minimum two-hour survivability, and all connectors must be shielded.
- The BDA enclosure must host only public safety components and be installed in cabinets meeting current fire code requirements.
Elyon Fire ensures that all installations meet these rigorous specifications, providing you with a compliant and reliable system.
Testing and Maintenance
1. Acceptance Testing:
- Post-installation testing is conducted to verify performance specifications.
- The system must achieve the required RSSI and DAQ values in a grid configuration similar to the baseline report.
2. Annual Testing and Maintenance:
- 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.
Approved Third-Party Review Services
Azle requires third-party review for fire protection engineering.
Elyon Fire collaborates with these approved third-party reviewers to ensure your project meets all required standards and passes all necessary inspections.
Ensuring Compliance and Safety
Compliance with Azle’s ERRC system requirements is crucial for the safety of building occupants and emergency responders. By partnering with Elyon Fire, you can ensure your building meets all local regulations and standards. Our services include:
- Certification and Testing: We provide thorough testing and certification services to ensure your systems are compliant and functional.
- Installation: Our team of experts installs ERRC, BDA, and DAS systems according to the highest industry standards.
- Maintenance and Repair: We offer ongoing maintenance and repair services to keep your systems operational and compliant.
- Documentation and Permits: Elyon Fire handles all necessary documentation and permits, ensuring a hassle-free process for building owners.
For more information and assistance with ERRC, BDA, and DAS systems in Azle, Texas, contact Elyon Fire today. Our team is ready to help you ensure safety and compliance for your building.
Visit the City of Azle Fire Marshal’s Office for detailed guidelines and requirements.