In Florida, new buildings and new construction have been required to meet ERRCS (Emergency Responder Radio Communications System) codes for the last several years. This is to ensure there is no interference on emergency responder radios, in the event of an emergency.
As of December 31, 2019, existing buildings not in compliance were required to obtain a permit and show proof that they would become compliant by January 1, 2022.
In order to find out if a building is compliant with the codes, an engineer will perform a public safety grid test. Be sure to research and find a reputable Public Safety DAS company to perform this test so you don’t waste money and time. Ask them what equipment they use to conduct tests and when it was last calibrated. Also, be sure they will send a report after the test with the results.
At Advanced Telecom Systems (ATS), we use a PCTEL to take the readings and we will test each area of the building to make sure it is in compliance. After the test is taken we send a report with the different areas that show either passing or failing and let you know the next steps in the process.
If the test passes, then that means you are in compliance and will not require a public safety system. If it fails, the building will need a public safety system installed before the January 1, 2022 deadline. When ATS performs the test, we offer to deduct the cost of the test from our quote for a public safety system.
Some building owners have been given a temporary occupancy permit while they wait to get the testing done to see if it will pass. If you are reading this and would like us to give you a quote to perform the testing on your building, please give us a call.
We also recommend seeking out DAS companies with strong AHJ (authority having jurisdiction) relationships. These companies will know who to talk to and what is necessary to be sure your building is up to code and that it stays up to code. It will make the overall approval process easier.
These laws are just starting to be enforced and while 2022 sounds far away, it is good to seek out companies ahead of time and do the research so you aren’t left scrambling when the date rolls around. Installing these systems can take time and sometimes unexpected issues can arise, so we do not recommend waiting until the last minute.
At ATS we pride ourselves in doing quality work and helping resolve the issues. We understand this process can be confusing and overwhelming, but we are here to help answer any questions and hold your hand from beginning to end. Give us a call at (813) 343-2334 or email us at sales@boostpoorsignal.com. You can also visit our website at https://www.boostpoorsignal.com for more information. For more information on laws/codes, please visit www.leg.state.fl.us
Advanced Telecom Systems
710 W Linebaugh Ave
Tampa, FL 33625
(866) 704-1197
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