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Bi-Directional Amplification | Two-Way Radio Communication Enhancement System

 

You can read more in the detailed Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) Brochure from our friends at Honeywell.

BDA – Frequently Asked Questions

A Bi-Directional Amplification system (BDA) is a “reliable in-building public safety radio coverage infrastructure system used to safeguard emergency communications”. In short, a BDA is a system that helps to enhance in-building radio frequency signal coverage for public safety use. This system is primarily used to address the performance of emergency responders’ portable radios and maintain wireless communications with the first responders inside buildings and emergency personal outside the building during medical emergencies, fires, etc. Building construction, size, and construction features (such as Low-E windows) can absorb or block radio communications. With adequate levels of signal strength, efficient communications can save the lives of first responders and building occupants alike. You can read more in the detailed Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) Brochure.
Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES) were first introduced in the 2009 International Building Code. Currently, AHJ’s are the determining factor on whether a system is needed for a particular building and/or if a current system is adequate. A determination will not be made until an RF survey, performed by a specialized FCC GROL license holder, is completed. Results are then submitted to the AHJ for final determination of what will be required (Full System, Partial System, and Waiver).
NFPA 1221 (2016 Edition), NFPA 72 (2013, 2010 Editions) all specify the requirements for these systems. International Fire Code (IFC – Section 510). IBC Section 916 (2015 Edition), IBC Section 915 (2012 Edition).
Existing buildings are not required to comply with minimum radio strength for fire department communications and two way radio system enhancement communications as required by the Florida Fire Prevention Code until January 1st, 2025. However, by January 1st, 2024, an existing building that is not in compliance with the requirements for minimum radio strength for fire department communications must apply for an appropriate permit for the required installation with the local government agency having jurisdiction and must demonstrate that the building will become compliant by January 1st, 2025.
Reliable radio coverage is essential for first responders during emergencies, yet 56% of fire departments have experienced communications failure during an emergency incident within the last two years. If a building has areas where emergency radio signals are not sufficient for reliable communications, a distributed antenna system (DAS) will amplify and distribute the signals to the needed areas. If a system is installed but coverage isn’t equal, the solution could be as simple as installing a distributed antenna system (DAS) to help distribute the RF signal throughout a building, stadium, hospital or other defined areas. A notable time when a system failed is during the 9/11 attacks. Clear warnings from emergency command centers were received by first responders around the buildings instructing crews to pull fire fighters out due to obvious structural damage. These warnings were sent 21 minutes before the 2nd tower fell. Even though the ground crews communicated that information through the radio system, the lack of signal strength inside the buildings contributed to hundreds of lives being lost that day.

 

What is a Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA)?

As technology continues to evolve and wireless communication improves, it impacts the industries of fire and life safety. This is especially the case where it concerns emergency first responders who depend on systems and equipment installed into buildings meant to protect not only the public, but them as well. One such example of evolving and improved technology are BDA (Bi-Directional Amplification) systems. These systems are installed in buildings to enhance and maintain the signal strength of wireless communications between radios used by first responders and emergency personnel during dangerous situations of fire and life safety. These BDA systems make a world of difference for our first responders as they are able to better utilize their equipment to their full potential while facing dire circumstances. 

 

Florida Legislation on BDA

Recent legislation has been passed in Florida, USA on BDA (Bi-Directional Amplification) and ERCES (Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement Systems) systems that provides us a timeline for existing buildings. Per Florida Statute 633.202, “Existing buildings are not required to comply with minimum radio strength for fire department communications and two way radio system enhancement communications as required by the Florida Fire Prevention Code until January 1st, 2025.” Meaning, while it is not required to install these communication enhancement systems in your existing buildings until 2025, it will begin to affect you in early 2024. This gives you a little time to consider what you’d like to do next and request a survey for your building or new project; you can request a survey right here on our website. Florida Statute 633.202 goes further stating, “However, by January 1st, 2024, an existing building that is not in compliance with the requirements for minimum radio strength for fire department communications must apply for an appropriate permit for the required installation with the local government  agency having jurisdiction and must demonstrate that the building will become compliant by January 1st, 2025.”

Take the First Steps to Protect our First Responders

Given these timelines per Florida Statute 633.202, we at Piper Fire Protection have taken the initiative to begin performing ERCES surveys and are already installing BDA systems for our customers. Budgeting for BDA system installations is something we suggest you start doing today. That way you are financially prepared when these systems are required by law.  Instead of waiting until 2024 and dealing with the hassle of permit requests or deadlines, we strongly encourage you to research the benefits of getting these life saving systems installed in your existing buildings (or new construction). Should you have questions or concerns about BDA or ERCES, you can call us at 1-800-327-7604 or email us at customersupport@piperfire.com. We also accept BDA requests right here on our website and are happy to answer your questions and perform a survey for these services. We look forward to hearing from, educating and servicing you in any way we can, because at the end of the day: “Your Life Safety, Our Life Mission”.

 

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