In-Building Solutions
As first responders need to communicate regardless of where an emergency strikes – from an urban high-rise to rural shopping plaza – regulations and ordinances have been enacted in states and local municipalities to ensure police and fire have reliable communications, or Emergency Response Radio Coverage. Many municipalities will not issue an occupancy certificate without first being addressing the radio coverage. Even such efficiencies as Low E Glass reflects or absorbs IR light (heat energy) and radio waves, can cause in-building, wireless coverage problems.
In Massachusetts, while not every building needs a BDA/DAS, “All buildings shall have approved radio coverage for emergency responders within the building based upon the existing coverage levels of the public safety communication systems of the jurisdiction at the exterior of the building. (780 CMR 915.2 April 11, 2014). The goal being to allow responders to use existing equipment and systems to maintain radio communication during emergencies, improving safety and operational effectiveness.
Why do these mandates for radio service for Public Safety exist?
- Since 9/11, renewed focus on fail-proof emergency communications, especially for first-responders
- 700 & 800 MHz bands allocated for Fire and Police
- Indoor Cellular/PCS service required for E911 location
- ICC & NFPA 72 codes describe first-responder coverage specifications
- 150+ local municipalities now mandate public safety coverage inside large buildings for new and existing venues
Who needs a BDA/DAS?
- Corporate offices & buildings
- Multi-tenant high-rise buildings
- University campuses
- Hospitals/Health Care facilities
- Manufacturing facilities
- Upscale hotels and high-rise condos
- Casinos Stadiums/Sports Venues
- Convention centers
- Federal/local Government facilities
