Emergency preparedness relies on effective communication. First responders during emergencies need connectivity that they could count upon to coordinate their efforts to save lives. Because of this, many buildings are installing Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES).

What Is An ERCES: Understanding ERCES And Its Evolution

Until recently, these systems were called Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems (ERRCS). That name has been updated to reflect the evolution in communications technology. Changes at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in terminology from ERRCS to ERCES represent an ecosystem of communications systems that is significantly greater than radio technologies.

This update was motivated by the realization that the term “radio” constrained the scope of the code, whereas emergency communication needs have increased and encompass a raft of technologies that make sure first responders can always be connected under whatever circumstance. This therefore means ERRCS is no longer a valid terminology, as ERCES is now the standard understood and adopted by building codes and AHJs.

What Does ERCES Do?

An ERCES ensures that public safety personnel, whether firefighters, police, or EMTs, have reliable, uninterrupted communication inside a building, regardless of obstacles such as thick walls or even underground areas of a building, along with those isolated areas of the country. These systems amplify and distribute signals in spaces where communication would otherwise fail.

Key functionalities of an ERCES include:

• Signal Amplification: Amplifies weak signals coming from outside to ensure comprehensive coverage inside the building.

• Multifrequency Support: This supports multiple frequencies as utilized by public safety agencies when required by AHJ.

• Code Compliance: Assures that a building meets NFPA and other local code-mandated safety. 

Why the shift from ERRCS to ERCES?

The NFPA Technical Committee realized that the terminology “ERRCS” was linked to radio communication. It has been a practical and long time that public safety codes have allowed AHJs to implement the communication enhancement technologies other than radio. ERCES reflects that modern systems are flexible and adaptive enough for applying different kinds of technologies to meet the needs related to emergency communication.

Important ERCES Components

• Donor Antennas: Receive signals from outside towers or repeaters.
• Bi-Directional Amplifiers (BDAs): Boost and redistribute signal within the building.
• Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS): Linearly distribute the signal to end spots for no ‘dead’ areas.
• Monitoring & Alarm Systems: Signal problems with the system to building managers and response personnel.
• Back-up Power Supplies: Maintain operation in event of power loss.

Code & Compliance Considerations

Some of the codes that ERCES will need to comply with include NFPA 1221 for technical requirements for emergency communications systems. Building owners and facility managers will require the close collaboration of AHJs in order to properly design, install and test their ERCES in a manner that will be acceptable to local regulations.

Role of ERCES in Contemporary Buildings

Modern building materials, such as steel and low-e glass, hinder the signal indoors. In addition, underground spaces, stairwells, and basements can create dead zones. ERCES improves these challenges by enhancing signal strength to ensure that first responders have communication tools to quickly and effectively respond in emergencies.

Conclusion

ERCES forms the backbone of public safety in today’s built environment. Updated terminology and advanced technologies provide assurance that ERCES will keep up with evolving technologies so this lifesaving communication will always work when it counts. An ERCES installation goes way beyond mere code compliance for building owners, but saves lives and keeps one prepared at the time of need.

This may help you if you are planning to implement ERCES in your building or want more information regarding this system. Contact us for expert advice.