Relevant Codes

From a legal perspective

Current regulations mandate public safety coverage inside buildings ( new and existing ), either to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy or, increasingly, during periodic fire inspections. Usually a coverage test is required to assess compliance to the signal levels mandated.

Building owners and managers responsibilities

Is responsibility  of the building owner, or a designated representative make sure the building complies with the FCC (Federal Communications Commission ) regulations and national and local codes such:

  • IFC 2009 – International Fire Code APPENDIX J – EMERGENCY RESPONDER RADIO COVERAGE: This Emergency Responder Radio Coverage standard code REQUIRES all buildings to have “approved radio coverage for emergency responders within the building” matching outdoor coverage levels.
  • NPFA 72 –  14.4.10* In Building Emergency Radio Communication Systems. In building emergency radio communication systems shall be inspected and operationally tested in accordance with the manufacture’s published requirements by the local fire department, the building owner, or a designated representative.
  • NFPA 72 – 14.4.10.6* Annual Test. Where a public safety radio enhancement system is required, it shall be the building owner’s responsibility to have all live components of the system, such as signal boosters, newer supplies, and backup batteries tested at a minimum of once every 12 months. The authority having jurisdiction shall be notified in advance and shall direct annual test procedures and requirements.
  • Florida Fire Prevention Code 2019 update :

Code Excerpts.

633.202 Florida Fire Prevention Code.

– 18.: “by January 1, 2024, an existing building that is not in compliance with the requirements for minimum radio strength for fire department communications must apply for an appropriate permit for the required installation with the local government agency having jurisdiction and must demonstrate that the building will become compliant by January 1, 2025.