By Adam Baer, DAS Technology Director
Manufacturing settings create unique challenges for communications equipment and can necessitate specialized systems for both occupants and first responders.
Depending on the location, authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) may require technology like mass notification systems or emergency responder communications enhancement systems (ERCES).
The design and implementation of these systems requires specialized knowledge of not only the technology, but also the codes and standards that regulate them.
DAS/ERCES
Both the size of manufacturing facilities and the equipment they house can interfere with radio signals. When these signals are sufficiently interrupted, AHJs may require an ERCES installation to increase signal strength in a facility.
These systems amplify radio signals within a building to enhance communication in the event of an emergency.
To determine whether an ERCES installation is required, the AHJ will take a radio survey of the building. During the survey, each floor of the building is divided into a grid.
In order to pass, each square in the grid must have at least 95% radio coverage, or 99% coverage in critical zones like areas of refuge.
If too many of these grid squares fail, a system will be required to meet code requirements.
ERCES installations work by connecting to nearby radio towers with a donor antenna placed on the roof. That antenna then sends radio signals into the building where they are distributed by bi-directional amplifiers.
For more information on radio amplification systems, check out our case study here.
Mass Notification
The size and noise in manufacturing settings can also pose an issue for fire alarms. If the ambient noise in a facility is too loud, additional notification systems may be required.
Mass notification systems like these employ loudspeakers to announce alarms or evacuation instructions to occupants.
These systems are regulated by NFPA 72 and must meet standards for both volume and intelligibility.
Any alerts sent out by the speakers must be intelligible and at least 15 decibels above the ambient noise level in the environment.
They are also required to meet intelligibility standards, ensuring the message can be easily understood by occupants.
Speakers from HyperSpike such as the TCPA-10 or Linewave are specially designed for these environments with clear, high-output speakers and rugged construction built to withstand challenging conditions.
For more information on how to implement code-compliant fire and life safety solutions in your facility, contact us to schedule a consultation with our fire alarm specialists.
