Code Confusion in the ERCES Market

For many in the Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement System market, code development has been a welcomed boost to business and a beneficial tool to opening the conversation between integrators and building owners. However, code development has also been a point of contention between integrators and Authorities Having Jurisdiction. Many jurisdictions adopt specific code editions or amend specific codes and standards pertaining directly to ERCES when the most up-to-date code has different requirements. The reasons for this are different for each AHJ and this can cause an immense amount of confusion for integrators who are following NFPA and/or IFC codes. The most effective resolution is, of course, to ask the AHJ directly about their standards for ERCES deployment and commissioning. Unfortunately, this can be challenging, and in some cases impossible, as some AHJs don't even know what the code requirements for ERCES are to begin with.

Concerning component survivability, code states that if the building is sprinklered and under 75' occupied above grade, distribution cables do not need to be protected, or fire rated (NFPA 1225 18.12). However, in some jurisdictions, cable is required to be protected by conduit or fire rated. This can dramatically increase materials cost and should be considered when bidding on a project. Also, some jurisdictions require to have a "low PIM rating" which requires a specialized cable and connectors. There are also some jurisdictions that still hold to the level system of 1, 2 or 3 for pathway survivability.

Some jurisdictions have amended code regulating specific brands for approved ERCES components. This, unfortunately, negatively affects the market by reducing competition and ultimately costing the general contractors more money, making building development in the area more expensive. It also has the potential to reduce the available ERCES integrators if they cannot get access to the brands mandated by the amended code. Supply chain issues can more drastically affect the deployment and commissioning process with this type of jurisdictional restriction.

One of the most critical discussions an integrator should have with the AHJ (and possibly the FCC Licensee) is the type and class of system they require. Some AHJs require active systems that require fiber optic cables and what are called "Remote Units" or Rus, with each RU requiring a battery backup and alarm monitoring. There is also a delineation between Class A and Class B BDAs and the required class should be identified by the AHJ. A Class A system allows the commissioning party to program specific channels into the BDA while a Class B system allows all frequencies within a preprogrammed bandwidth to be amplified and broadcasted.

With the individual requirements throughout the nation concerning ERCES, it is essential to coordinate with your specific AHJ and determine their adopted code requirements. If your AHJ is unsure what they should be looking for, NFPA 1225 is the latest code that outlines the most up to date ERCES requirements. It includes stipulations of cable, BDAs, antennas and more. If you are curious as to what codes may be adopted in your area, Safer Buildings Coalition has an extensive list of requirements organized by state and jurisdiction. You can find that list here.

Feel free to reach out to your Potter Regional Sales Manager or Potter ERCES Sales Engineer for more information and assistance with locating our datasheets and pricing information for all TowerIQ products.