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My Fire Official is requiring an Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Test. What is that? Is this something you do? Can you handle that for my project?
An Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Test ensures that first responders’ radios work reliably throughout your building. Yes, our team conducts this test to confirm whether your facility meets local coverage requirements. If the signal strength is sufficient, we’ll provide a detailed report for submission—no additional enhancement system needed.
We were told there's no Public Safety Radio signal inside our building, but we have good cellular service. What's the difference?
Public Safety Radio Systems operate on completely different frequencies, networks, and infrastructure than consumer cellular service. Public Safety Systems aren't affected by cellular outages, and are designed specifically for Emergency Personnel reliability in emergencies.
When is the ideal time to test a project for Radio Coverage?
Once the building is enclosed with the windows installed, we perform a baseline radio coverage test and obtain the coverage level inside the building. The baseline test will determine early on if an ERCES / BDA system is likely to be needed. If there is adequate coverage, we typically retest as the project progresses to make sure the coverage stays adequate for emergency personnel.
I've been developing projects for 30 years and never had to install a system like this.
Many experienced developers often have the same question. IFC Code Section 510 and NFPA 1225 which requires radio coverage, has had many updates within the last few years. In addition, Radio System frequencies along with building materials such as low E glass have changed the way signals penetrate a building.
If my project doesn’t have coverage, does that mean the radio systems are inadequate? Why am I upgrading the systems?
Not necessarily. In most cases, the radio signal is strong outside the building, but the construction materials block it from reaching indoors. That’s why our upgrades focus on improving in-building coverage, ensuring reliable communication where it’s most needed.
In most cases, we prefer to verify radio coverage using our calibrated testing equipment. This allows us to obtain accurate signal readings. Since the Fire Marshal mentioned your site is far from the nearest tower, if testing shows insufficient coverage even outside the building (including the roof), your project may be exempt from installing a radio enhancement system.
The Fire Marshal told us his radio does not work inside our project and we need to install an enhancement system (BDA System). He mentioned that we are far away from the closest tower.
For many of our clients, we provide a “worst-case scenario” quote in case an ERCES/BDA system is required. In some jurisdictions, multiple radio systems may need to be included. Once testing is completed, if adequate coverage is confirmed for any of those systems, we revise and reduce the quote accordingly.
How can I budget for an ERCES/BDA System if I don't know whether it will be required?
I’m renovating a project. Do I need to have the radio coverage in my building tested when it’s complete?
In many jurisdictions, if your renovation requires the fire alarm system to be brought up to current code, radio coverage testing is also required. Feel free to reach out and we can verify your local requirements before you close up ceilings, helping you avoid additional work with possible delays. We can perform the radio coverage test so your report is ready when the AHJ requests it. More planning, fewer surprises.
We had a company test our building and they said we need a system because some areas failed. Another contractor told me you can fail a spot or two and still pass. Which is correct?
IFC Code Section 510 requires at least 95% radio coverage on each floor, and 99% coverage in critical areas such as stairwells, elevator lobbies, fire pump rooms, and other key emergency spaces. To verify this, floors are typically divided into 20 test grids per floor, so it is possible for one non‑critical grid to fail and still pass overall, as long as all critical areas meet the higher standard and the floor still achieves the required coverage percentage.
Who handles annual testing and ongoing maintenance after occupancy?
Most Fire Marshals and subcode officials require ERCES/BDA systems to be maintained under an active maintenance agreement after occupancy. Enhanced Radio Coverage offers maintenance agreements that include all required annual testing.
Where is Enhanced Radio Coverage located?
Enhanced Radio Coverage is based on Long Island. Servicing Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland, with strong relationships across these markets.
Who determines what frequencies need to work inside my building?
Typically, the local Fire Marshal or fire subcode official determines which emergency personnel and radio frequencies are required to have adequate coverage inside the building. We coordinate with the AHJ to gather all required information before starting a project.
The fire marshal is requiring multiple radio systems to work inside the building. Does that mean I need to install a BDA for all of them?
Not necessarily. After conducting proper testing of the in building radio coverage, we determine which systems if any require enhancement. In many cases, one system may need a BDA while others already meet the required coverage levels. Every building and project is different, so the solution is based on actual test results, not assumptions.
How long does an ERCES installation usually take?
Timelines depend on building size, complexity, and permitting requirements. A smaller building may take a few weeks, while larger or occupied facilities can take several months from design to final acceptance testing.
Does an ERCES system improve cellular service?
Yes. As certified integrators, we can support existing systems and offer both one time service options and annual maintenance contracts.
Do you service Comba BDA systems installed by other companies?
Not necessarily. Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems are designed specifically for public safety radio communications. While DAS technology can support cellular services, public safety and cellular systems are typically designed and managed separately.
