If you are constructing a new commercial building in your community, it is essential to know that your certificate of occupancy can be delayed until you meet standards (at your expense) verifying that first responders’ radio will function in the building. The developer may also be required to provide proof of annual inspection as well as bear the cost of upgrading the system to support additional first responder radio frequencies. Some authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ’s) are now requiring that existing buildings support first responders’ radio. 
 

These requirements are typically based on provisions of the International Fire Code (IFC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The AHJ is frequently a fire department official who has broad discretion over how the local ordinances are created and enforced. Complications and confusion arise in metropolitan areas with neighboring cities. Each may have their own set of compliance standards. Moreover, the cost of deploying a distributed antenna system (DAS) that meets the AHJ requirements can easily approach $1.00 to $1.50 per square foot. 
 

IBW Advisors can help you navigate the processes associated with meeting first responder radio standards that apply to your building. Services include:

​

• Researching and documenting applicable ordinance requirements that impact your building and timing of its occupancy. Providing recommendations for compliance.
   

• IBW Advisors and their partners can provide the testing necessary to determine if your building needs a distributed antenna system that complies with the local ordinance. Test results are delivered in a format that meets all ordinance standards.
   

• Should a first responder antenna system be needed, we can prepare a detailed scope of work and bid package. We will represent you in obtaining competitive bids from qualified vendors.
   

• Conduct post-construction testing to ensure that the system deployed conforms to the requirements of the applicable authority of jurisdiction.

​

This collaborative, strategic approach will shape discussions with network design engineers, equipment vendors, and installation contractors. A vendor that provides a unified solution that combines Wi-Fi and cellular technologies may be best suited to execute your future-ready wireless strategy. Cost-effective plans can be made to lay-in spare, dark fiber, and cable in-conjunction with current infrastructure buildout activity. The choice of active electronics that drive the future ready system can be evaluated based on interoperability requirements discovered during the WNA. The identification of the need to set aside space and power to support the expanding infrastructure can provide significant cost savings.
 

Our goal is to help you mitigate costly delays and expenses associated with meeting public safety radio requirements. A custom-tailored consulting and compliance package is available for your project. Contact IBW Advisors for a complimentary initial consultation.