---
tags:
  - type/encyclopedia
title: Emergency Communications Systems (ECS)
up: "[[electrical-construction]]"
---
# Emergency Communications Systems (ECS)

See also [[fire-alarm]].

## "Two-Way System"

With the exception of ERCCS,
it is not appropriate to refer to one or any of these as _the_ two-way system.
_A_ "two-way communication system" as used by the ICC codes
refers to a single connection (for lack/ignorance of a better term),
therefore any building will always have more than one.

> [!cite] [[ibc_s1009#1009.8.1 System requirements.]] (emphasis added)
> Two-way communication _systems_ shall provide communication
> between each required location and the fire command center
> or a central control point location approved by the fire department.

For a high-rise condominium project,
To exclude _the_ two-way communication system
would be as nonsensical as excluding _the_ unit subfeed.

> [!aside]
> There's an argument to be made
> that _the_ two-way communication system (singular)
> is legitimate shorthand for the "super-system"
> that includes all ICC defined two-way communication _systems_ (plural),
> and I'd tend to agree, but the distinction should be noted.

All systems currently listed in this note
are described as "two-way communication systems".

Those listed directly below have no overlap:
* stairway communication systems --- [[ibc_s0403#403.5.3.1 Stairway communication system.|IFC 403.5.3.1]]
* elevator landing communication systems --- [[ibc_s1009#1009.8 Two-way communication.|IFC 1009.8]]
* area of refuge communication systems --- [[ibc_s1009#1009.6.5 Two-way communication.|IFC 1009.6.5]]
* emergency responder communication coverage system -- [[ifc_s0510#SECTION 510---EMERGENCY RESPONDER RADIO COVERAGE|IFC Section 510]]

### In Other Standards

In NFPA 101 "two-way communication system" is used as generic term,
to be installed in accordance with the governing code
[[nfpa-72_national-fire-alarm-code|NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code]].

[[nfpa-72_national-fire-alarm-code#Chapter 24 Emergency Communications Systems (ECS)]]

[[nfpa-72_national-fire-alarm-code#24.8 Two-Way, In-Building Wired Emergency Services Communications Systems.|24.8 Two-Way, In-Building Wired Emergency Services Communications Systems.]]

## Area of Refuge (AOR) Communication Systems

Used to provide two-way communication between the building exterior
and one or more designated areas
offering relative protection from hazards (mainly fire) in an emergency.

An AOR system usually also includes illuminated directional signage.

> [!important]
> Despite their similarities in purpose,
> AOR is not a fire alarm system nor a component of one.
> When requesting low voltage quotes,
> it is necessary to specifically list AOR,
> else contractors may assume it is by others.

Area of Refuge is defined in [[nfpa-101_life-safety-code|NFPA 101: Life Safety Code]].

[[nfpa-72_national-fire-alarm-code#24.10 Area of Refuge (Area of Rescue Assistance) Emergency Communications Systems, Stairway Communications Systems, Elevator Landing Communications Systems, and Occupant Evacuation Elevator Lobby Communications Systems.]]

## Emergency Responder Communication Coverage Systems (ERCCS)

> [!info] Also Known As
> * Emergency Communication Coverage Systems (ECCS)
> * Emergency Responder Communications Enhancement Systems (ERCES)

Includes implementations utilizing wired and wireless (radio) methods.

### Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Systems (ERRCS)

> [!info] Also Known As
> * Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems (ERRCS)

Relevant Standard: NFPA 1225

Where required, compliance is achieved by means of BDA and DAS systems
as required by the AHJ.

> [!quote]
> An Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (ERRC) system
> is a Public Safety Radio (PSR) DAS system
> that enhances the coverage of wireless signals in buildings.
> This allows first responders to communicate more effectively during emergencies.

## Voice Evacuation