What is an in-building emergency responder Communications Enhancement System (Erces)?

An In-Building Emergency Responder Communications Enhancement System (ERCES) is a wireless communications system used by first responder and emergency services personnel, such as police, fire, emergency medical, homeland security, and disaster response agencies.

Are call boxes a code-compliant emergency communication system?

Each Area of Refuge requires hands-free, two-way emergency communication devices (Call Boxes) on each floor above/below the main exit floor. A code-compliant two-way communication system for rescue assistance requires a central control point to manage emergency assistance calls from call boxes.

What is a two-way emergency communication system?

The Command Center Two-Way Emergency Communication System is designed to provide efficient two-way, person-to-person voice communication for Area of Refuge, accommodating an impressive range of 1 to 116 Call Boxes. Utilizing a home run configuration with only one pair of wires needed between each Call Box and the head end.

Why do emergency responders need in-building Erces?

When emergency responders enter a building their ability to maintain interoperable and continuous communications is paramount to the protection of both public safety and the public’s safety. An In-Building ERCES ensures that communication signals can penetrate into all areas of buildings in accordance with model fire codes and standards.

Do elevators need a two-way emergency communication system?

A two-way emergency communication system for rescue assistance is required, by industry standards NFPA, IBC and ADA, at each elevator or bank of elevators, on each accessible floor above/below exit discharge, so trapped parties can call for rescue assistance.

Why do emergency responders need in-building wireless communications?

The need for in-building wireless communications for Emergency Responders resulted in the development of national model codes by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Code Council (ICC) as early as 2009.