Public safety DAS that passes inspection and keeps first responders connected

What is public safety DAS?

A public safety DAS, also called an emergency responder radio coverage system (ERRCS) or a bi-directional amplifier (BDA) system, carries first responder radio signals throughout a building. It makes sure firefighters and police can communicate in stairwells, basements, parking garages and other areas where outdoor radio signals don’t reach.

Why buildings need it

Fire codes adopted by many states and cities, including International Fire Code Section 510 and NFPA 1225 (which replaced NFPA 1221), require in-building emergency responder coverage when outdoor signal is inadequate. Requirements typically call for coverage in about 95% of general building areas and 99% of critical areas such as fire command centers and stairwells. The local fire marshal or authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) decides what applies to your building.

How TCOMM handles compliance

• Grid testing. Signal strength measured floor by floor to determine whether a system is required.
• Design. A system designed to your jurisdiction’s frequencies and coverage requirements.
• Approvals. Plans, permits and coordination with the AHJ and public safety radio licensees.
• Installation. BDAs, antennas, cabling and code-required monitoring and backup power installed and documented.
• Acceptance testing. Final testing and documentation for sign-off.
• Annual testing and recertification. Ongoing inspections and records to keep the building compliant.

New construction and existing buildings

New buildings are often tested near completion, so planning for public safety coverage during design avoids last-minute delays. Existing buildings may need a system after renovations, a change in use, or a jurisdiction adopting new requirements.

Pair it with cellular coverage

Public safety and cellular DAS are usually separate systems, but designing and installing them together saves time and cost. Both are available through DAS as a Service.