Allan P. Sanedrin, principal engineer for Fire and Life Safety Signaling Systems in the Built Environment, shares insights on emergency communication systems.
Two-way emergency communication systems for rescue assistance are critical in building safety design. They provide individuals who require help to evacuate during an emergency with a reliable means of communication with rescue personnel. These communication systems are located at each designated area of refuge, which is any area where people unable to use stairways can remain temporarily awaiting instructions or assistance during an emergency evacuation. These systems are important for people with physical disabilities or mobility impairments.
To meet the code requirements set by the NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®, published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the International Building Code (IBC), and the International Fire Code (IFC), these systems must be evaluated to UL 2525.
Certification to UL 2525, the Standard for Two-Way Emergency Communications Systems for Rescue Assistance:
- Performance: UL 2525 sets the standard for the operational performance of two-way communication systems. These systems are designed to operate as intended and as required. Audio performance requirements are designed to support clear communication at both the area of refuge and at the receiving point, such as at a fire command center.
- Reliability: Products certified under UL 2525 undergo rigorous tests for durability — such as enduring overload and endurance test cycles, operating in high and low ambient temperatures and humid environments — operate within specified maximum temperature limits for electronic components, and have the ability to withstand transient voltages up to 6,000 volts.
- Testing: Electrical and electronic equipment evaluated and tested to UL 2525 are assessed for compliance with safety standards to guard against fire and electric shock.
- Documentation: Specific information, such as intended installation environment and ratings, is required to be on product markings, installation instructions and operating instructions.
- Construction: Construction requirements address key safety concerns, including fire and electric shock protection, durability, reliable performance, and injury prevention for individuals who operate or maintain the equipment.
Key features of compliant systems
- Timing: Processing and activation of signals operate within 10 seconds of the activation of communication.
- Low effort operation: Communication may be initiated without hand or finger dexterity, fine motor movement or simultaneous actions; operation does not require tight pinching, twisting or grasping. Additionally, operating instructions are provided in both visual characters and in braille.
- Power supply: The system must have a reliable power supply, with secondary power such as a battery backup to maintain functionality during power outages.
- Supervision: The equipment monitors and announces faulty conditions that may impair the operation of the system. Faults such as loss of the microphone, primary power outage or rupture of a fuse within the product result in a trouble signal sounding within 200 seconds of the occurrence of the fault.
- Compatibility: Interconnected equipment is tested for compatibility under varying power and loading conditions. The interconnection of the product with other devices is evaluated for operation as a coordinated system relative to the intended signaling.
- Remote monitoring: Systems allow for remote monitoring by building security, emergency personnel or 911 call centers so that calls for help are promptly addressed.
Emergency communication systems for rescue assistance in areas of refuge are essential for the safety of all building occupants, particularly the elderly and those with physical disabilities. Compliance with UL 2525 demonstrates that these systems are reliable, effective and capable of providing critical communication during emergency evacuations. UL 2525 Certified emergency communication systems should not be replaced with nonemergency public announcement or intercom systems, as those products have not been evaluated for their ability or reliability to perform in a rescue assistance application. Building owners and facility managers should prioritize the installation and maintenance of UL 2525 Certified systems to meet code and regulatory requirements, such as NFPA and IBC, to enhance overall safety.
Is your emergency system UL Certified?
Explore UL Certified two-way emergency communications systems for rescue assistance on our UL Product iQ® database, available at www.UL.com/PiQ.
Product iQ is complimentary with a one-time registration. These systems can be located under the UL Category Control Number: UUKB.