In fire incident investigation reports, communication problems are often cited as a contributing factor in first responder line of duty death and injury. Emergency first responders use portable radios, known as land mobile radios or LMRs, as a critical communication tool to help ensure effective fireground command and control, to establish personnel accountability, and to improve firefighter safety when operating within buildings during a fire or other emergency. Emergency responder communication enhancement systems (ERCES) are required by model fire codes for new buildings; the design, installation, testing and maintenance are covered by NFPA 1221 and with the adoption of the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) and NFPA 1 Fire Code, ERCES are required to be listed in accordance with UL 2524, the Standard for in-building emergency responder communication enhancement system
Learning objectives:
- An overview of model code requirements for ERCES
- The safety and performance requirements of UL 2524 to help ensure ERCES are safe and meet the required functionality
- The features and benefits of UL Enhanced Certification Marks
- Certified versus Listed on labels and marks
Speakers:
- Larry Shudak, principal engineer, UL
- Bruce Johnson, regulatory services regional manager, UL
- Dennis J. Burns, director of public safety, Advanced RF Technologies, Inc.
Webinar date:
Dec. 16, 2020