Florida buildings now required to install signal-boosting public safety systems

Effective July 1, 2021 – Certain building types (high-rise commercial and residential apartments) have been granted an extension. If a building has “dead zones” for public safety radio signals, they must install a BDA system. The new codes will require buildings to be verified and in compliance by 2025. This requirement can apply to many buildings with public safety concerns, including:

• Office buildings
• Parking structures and storage unit facilities
• Hotels and hospitality venues
• High-rises
• Malls and retail centers
• Campuses
• Stadiums and arenas
• Airports, train stations, and other transit centers

General contractors, project managers, and building owners must be aware that many jurisdictions now require NFPA or IFC-complaint public safety and emergency responder coverage as a prerequisite for getting an occupancy permit. But understanding the details of how coverage is tested and how it can be improved is complicated, and varies greatly by jurisdiction. All commercial, multi-unit residential, governmental, and educational occupancies must have reliable in-building public safety radio communications coverage that meets the most current adopted version of the Florida Fire Prevention Code referenced NFPA requirements.

That is why only Public Safety qualified in-building specialists should be contracted to assist through the entire process of designing and installing a public safety system in buildings requiring the additional coverage. Qualified specialist will assess specific building needs with an on-site evaluation. No two systems are ever exactly alike, and each BDA system needs to be tailored to precise measurements. That is why it is critical to have a certified installer that is familiar with all relevant codes regarding BDA systems to ensure buildings comply with government mandates and stay code compliant.

EMCI Wireless is the largest solution provider in Florida for mission critical wireless communications and commercial networks, providing Motorola 2-way radios and infrastructure to Florida’s Public Safety agencies since 1975. They guarantee that their network and devices perform at the highest level possible and are effective in the most critical of moments and applications. EMCI Wireless is the Florida leading expert in Public Safety RF and provides a turn-key solution to ensure buildings are compliant with the new NFPA Florida Public Safety building requirements.

It’s absolutely critical that building managers work with specialized installation experts who can help guide on what they need to do to achieve compliance. EMCI Wireless provides design and installation services on BDA and DAS equipment. Their RF experienced drafters and installers ensure the project moves along on time and on budget. Being a full-service organization, their work does not end after design and installation. They offer maintenance, Test & Inspection services to maintain a functioning BDA system so clients and emergency personnel can have the peace of mind that, should an emergency happen, communication will go uninterrupted.

For more information: https://www.emciwireless.com/our-services/in-building-solutions.htm