When a building experiences a fire or other emergency situation , firefighters can better coordinate their efforts if a reliable communication system is available. However, this can be challenging if communication relies on wired infrastructure; A fire can disrupt telephony and Internet connectivity if it damages a phone rack or data center. An Auxiliary Radio Communication System (ARCS) is required by the New York City Department of Buildings precisely to solve this problem, providing a communication method you can count on during emergencies.
When firefighters are unable to communicate with the fire command center and their counterparts in other areas of the building, the result can be tragic. For example, if one firefighter identifies a hazard as backdraft, everyone else can be notified through ARCS. Lack of communication makes the fire team much more vulnerable.
An ARCS provides communications for firefighters even when separated by thick floors or concrete walls in a tall building. The system can also operate without the need to constantly change radio channels, eliminating distractions and allowing firefighters to focus completely on the emergency. 9/11 was a tragic example of how poor communication affects firefighters, and many casualties could have been prevented with an ARCS.
Fire protection requirements in New York are among the most demanding in the world, but this makes sense considering the large number of people in tall buildings. Working with qualified design engineers simplifies code compliance and project approval.
What is an auxiliary radiocommunication system?
An ARCS has several distinguishing features: it is wireless and bidirectional, while using frequencies that are exclusive to the FDNY to avoid interference. Its basic components are dedicated radio consoles (DRC), radio amplification units (RAU), radiating cables, antennas and power supplies.
The layout of an ARCS includes a base station or transceiver, connected to a building-wide antenna system, as well as a radio console in the lobby for easy access. As with any major building system, New York City Department of Buildings approval is required prior to installation. In the specific case of an ARCS, approval from the New York Fire Commissioner is also required, given the system's important role in firefighting.
Approval procedure for ARCS installation
For design approval, a New York registered design professional must submit a complete set of construction documents. New York Building Code Article 917 provides a list of required documentation:
- Type of radio equipment, including antenna specifications.
- Riser diagram and floor plans clearly indicating the location of all ARCS components.
- Legend: Symbols and abbreviations.
- Locations of energy sources – primary and secondary.
- Technical specifications and listing information for all proposed equipment and cables.
Ideally, an ARCS system should be able to provide full building coverage while optimizing equipment placement and placement. overall system cost . Fire protection systems include expensive components such as fire pumps and sprinkler piping, so any savings that don't compromise performance are welcome.
Make sure your fire protection systems are designed correctly.
Where should ARCS be installed in New York City?
Installation of an ARCS is required on new commercial construction over 75 feet in height and new residential construction over 125 feet in height. Installation requirements and procedures are provided in Rule 3 RCNY §511-01, along with requirements for acceptance testing, inspection, certification, and recertification. For radiocommunication systems similar to ARCS and installed before December 31, 2014, the standard also provides for operation and maintenance requirements, even when many of them are not ARCS themselves.
While New York codes and standards are demanding in general, they are especially stringent in the case of fire protection. Failure to meet codes when installing ARCS, automatic sprinklers , fire alarms , smoke control systems , or other fire protection measures can lead to legal action such as denial of certificate of occupancy. Also consider that firefighters rely heavily on ARCS when dealing with a fire or any other emergency in a high-rise building, so a well-functioning system can help save lives.
If you plan to improve the fire protection features in your building, remember that the installation of fire sprinklers is mandatory for all properties covered by Local Law 26 of 2004 . The deadline is July 1, 2019 and an interim report must be submitted by July 1, 2018.
