The Challenge
There are reportedly over 6 million commercial buildings in the United States. Occupants need to be able to call 911 from inside those buildings, and first responders need to be able to communicate when inside those buildings.
Source: Texas House of Representatives Investigative Committee on the Robb Elementary Shooting Interim Report 2022“Upon entering the building, the officers tried but were unable to communicate on their radios.”
To overcome this challenge we use bi-directional amplifier (BDA) systems. A BDA system is a signal-boosting solution to enhance in-building radio frequency signal coverage for public safety radios and cellular devices.
Who needs a BDA system?
Any building with poor radio coverage for emergency responders must have a BDA system, as per IFC Section 510-2017 and NFPA-72.
In an emergency, it is vital that all buildings support wireless communications for first responders. Compliance is essential to ensure a high level of life-safety protection for both the people inside the building and the first responders.
Compliance deadlines vary, but many jurisdictions already require coverage testing and BDA systems to fix poor coverage and make a building code compliant.
Why choose Ci?
Ci is a leader in providing public safety wireless solutions that meet the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Fire Code (IFC).
Ci was founded in 1975 with the mission to serve the public safety community while providing best-in-class services and solutions to meet each customer’s telecommunications needs. During this time, we have successfully improved critical communications systems and infrastructure for first responders, government, transit, commercial, education, healthcare, security, and military customers.
With decades of experience in the radio communication industry, Ci has specialized skills to design, implement and maintain BDA systems. We employ RF Engineers, Site Managers, Technicians, and Installers, which allows us to offer turnkey solutions.
Where to start
If you’re not sure that you need a BDA system, contact us to schedule an assessment. We will conduct thorough in-building radio coverage assessments that include detailed reports to present to local government officials, including the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
If you do need a BDA system, we will create and implement a solution that complies with all relevant regulations.
Contact us to find out how Ci can help you!
In-building radio requirements
IFC Section 510-2017 – All buildings must have approved radio coverage for emergency responders within the building based upon local AHJ public safety communications requirements.
NFPA-72 – Chapter 24 of NFPA-72, Emergency Communications Systems states that radio coverage shall be provided at 99% throughout areas deemed critical and 90% in general.