Securing Area of Rescue in Commercial Facilities
With the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Area of Rescue or Area of Refuge emergency communication systems are mandatory for all multistory structures and newly constructed buildings. This rescue assistance requirement makes it easier to communicate quickly and efficiently when they require fast and reliable assistance in an emergency situation. With Area of Rescue systems, hands-free intercoms are placed in stairwells and close to elevators so requesting assistance during an emergency situation where help isn’t immediately available is quick and reliable.
Two-way communication systems are required in areas of refuge. The exact location of the systems will depend on what is being used as an area of refuge. The system itself, though, needs to allow for communication between the elevator landing and either the fire command center or a central control point that has been approved by the authority having jurisdiction, typically the local fire department. Directions outlining how to use it, how to request help using the system, and written identification of the location all need to be posted next to the two-way communication system. One key component of determining what can be considered an area of refuge is whether or not the building is protected throughout with an automatic, supervised sprinkler system.
Areas of Rescue
Areas of refuge (sometimes referred to as areas of rescue) are spaces within a building where occupants can seek shelter during an emergency while awaiting rescue. Typically, these spaces are used by individuals who do not have the physical capacity to exit the building using the stairs. In some instances, individuals may shelter in an area of rescue because exit paths from the building are unsafe or inaccessible. Areas of rescue are most often located at an elevator landing, a stairwell, or in a vestibule on the interior or exterior side of an exit door.
Two-Way Communication
Two-way communication is required in every area of rescue in a newly constructed multistory building to enable anyone sheltering to summon help as needed. Without this communication structure, facility managers may have no idea that a patron is in need of assistance. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), these systems must facilitate efficient communication between the area and either the fire command center or a center point within the building that is approved by the authority having jurisdiction. This is done by using data cabling from the area to the central command center. This allows the patron to verbally communication with the facility manager managing the master call station.
Clear Instruction
It must have both audible and visible signals to ensure that meet the standards outlines with the ADA. It must have adequate signage explaining how to utilize the intercom and directions to other means of egress.
Adequate communication systems in buildings area of rescue systems are essential in the overall safety and security planning of occupants in an emergency. Low Voltage Solutions is an experienced partner in finding and installing the right solution for your building’s safety and security.
