N.Y.C. Admin. Code § BC 916: Section BC 916: Fire Department In-Building Auxiliary Radio Communication System (ARCS)

916.1 General.

This section covers the design, installation and performance criteria of Fire Department In-Building Auxiliary Radio Communication System (ARCS). Such systems shall be designed and installed by the New York City Fire Code, Sections 403 and 907 of this code, or where installed voluntarily, such systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with this section, NFPA 72, the New York City Electrical Code and in accordance with Fire Department requirements.

916.1.1 Construction documents.

Construction documents for ARCS shall be submitted for approval to the Fire Department prior to system installation. Construction documents shall include, but need not be limited to, all of the following:

1. Type of radio equipment and antenna.

2. Riser diagram and floor plans showing location of elements of the ARCS, including but not limited to building fire command center or fire alarm control panel, dedicated radio console, base station and all other critical system components such as antennas, amplifiers, cables as applicable.

3. Legend of all ARCS symbols and abbreviations used.

4. Location of primary and secondary power source.

5. Specification and listing details for all equipment, devices and cables.

916.1.2 Acceptance testing, maintenance and operational testing.

Acceptance testing, maintenance and operational testing of the ARCS shall be performed in accordance with the New York City Fire Code and rules promulgated by the Fire Department.

916.2 Instructions.

Operating, testing and maintenance instructions and record drawings ("as-builts") and detailed specifications of all the components shall be provided at an approved location.

916.3 Where required.

ARCS, which shall be in accordance with this section, shall be required in the following:

1. High-rise buildings constructed in accordance with Section 403.

2. Underground buildings constructed in accordance with Section 405.

3. Buildings having a total gross area exceeding 250,000 square feet (23 225.8 m

2

).

Exceptions:

1. Group R-2 buildings that meet all of the following requirements:

a. The highest occupied floor is less than 125 feet (38 100 mm) above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access;

b. The building has no more than 1 story below grade; and

c. The floor area of the building does not exceed 250,000 square feet (23 225.8 m

2

).

2. Where it is determined by the Fire Department that a radio communication system is not required.